The Gwanghwamun area in Seoul is known for being a hub of offices, attracting numerous professionals. It’s also a place where you can find various restaurants and cafes to cater to the needs of these workers.
In Gwanghwamun, you can find a range of cafes, including large franchises like Starbucks, as well as mid-range brands like Paik’s Coffee. Additionally, you can discover independently operated, uniquely styled cafes.
“Hanok Cafe in Gwanghwamun: Namusa-iro”
Among the independently operated cafes, you can find cafes that have converted traditional Korean houses (hanok) into charming spaces. In the Gwanghwamun area, you can find several hanok cafes, and Namusa-iro is one of them.
While most hanok cafes exude a traditional atmosphere from the moment you step inside, Namusa-iro may not immediately give off that vibe. Its entrance is designed in the style of a regular Western building, which might initially make you wonder if this is indeed a “hanok cafe.”
“The Hanok Revealed After Passing the Counter”
At Namusa-iro, you can place your order at the counter. Once you pass through the space with the counter, the hanok finally reveals itself. It’s a modified hanok that emphasizes openness with a modern touch while still preserving the unique ambiance of a hanok.
The hanok is structured in an “ㄴ” shape, and when combined with the space containing the counter, it forms a “ㅁ” shape, creating a central courtyard. This makes it a great place to spend time on a nice day in the outdoor area provided within the courtyard.
On rainy days, you can still enjoy your time indoors. The presence of glass windows allows you to admire the outside view without feeling confined.
“The Menu at Namusa-iro”
Namusa-iro primarily offers straightforward menu options like Americanos. Additionally, you can explore other options such as cold brew and tea. The price of an Americano is 5,000 KRW, which is slightly more expensive than Starbucks. However, considering the special view unique to this hanok, it’s worth paying a bit more.
Since it’s a hanok cafe with limited seating, it may not be able to accommodate a large number of people at once. However, this characteristic makes it a unique space. It’s a great place for casual meetings with friends.
“Hanok Cafe in Gwanghwamun, Namusa-iro”
- Address: 1st Floor, 21, Sajik-ro 8-gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul
- Phone Number: 070-7590-0885
- Operating Hours: (Mon-Fri) 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM, (Sat-Sun) 9:30 AM – 9:00 PM, (Holidays) 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM
- Website: https://www.namusairo.com