Gwanghwamun stands out as one of Seoul’s representative office-dense areas, hosting government buildings like the Seoul Metropolitan Government, foreign embassies, and headquarters of various businesses, making it a hub for office workers.
With a diverse mix of cafes ranging from familiar names like Starbucks to independently operated smaller cafes and affordable franchise options, the area caters to the preferences of its many office-goers.
“Discovering the Hidden Gem Jaha in the Nae-Su Area near Gyeonghuidang Apartments”
While Gwanghwamun is often associated with the bustling Gwanghwamun Plaza and towering buildings, a stroll west into the quieter neighborhood behind Gyeonghuidang Apartments and offices reveals a different side. Here, in the charming Nae-Su area, unique cafes and restaurants line the narrow streets, offering a local vibe distinct from the typical Gwanghwamun image.
“Jaha: A Local Cafe Tucked Away in Nae-Su, Gwanghwamun”
One such hidden gem in this neighborhood is the cafe named Jaha. Situated on the top floor of a building that houses various eateries, including Kyungdon, Jaha is not immediately visible, making it a somewhat undiscovered spot. Originally located in Seochon Village, it has moved to Nae-Su.
“A Soothing White Interior”
To reach the cafe, you need to climb a bit, as there is no elevator. However, once you arrive, you’re welcomed by a clean and modern interior, complemented by large windows offering a pleasant view. The cafe embraces a minimalist aesthetic, creating a serene ambiance.
“Coffee and Tteok: An Unusual Yet Charming Combination”
Jaha stands out by focusing on a unique combination of coffee and tteok (rice cake), setting it apart from other cafes that might emphasize coffee and cookies. This distinctive menu adds to the charm of this place, offering something different from the usual cafe experience.
The prices are reasonable, with coffee priced at 4,000 won per cup (regardless of whether it’s an espresso or an Americano) and tteok ranging from 2,000 to 3,000 won, depending on the type.
“Coffee”
- Espresso: 4,000 won
- Americano: 4,000 won
- Latte: 4,800 won
- Flat White: 4,800 won
- Cappuccino: 4,800 won
- Lemon Tea: 5,500 won
- Yuzu Tea: 5,500 won
“Tteok”
- Glutinous Rice Cake: 2,000 won
- Seoritae (kudzu root): 2,500 won
- Ssuk (mugwort): 2,500 won
- Yaksik (sweet rice cake with dried fruits and nuts): 2,500 won
- Heukimja (black sesame): 2,800 won
- Bam (chestnut): 2,800 won
- Muwha-gwa (dried persimmon): 2,800 won
- Ang butter (red bean and butter): 2,800 won
- Strawberry: 3,000 won
- Yuzu: 3,000 won
- Geumgyul (kumquat): 3,000 won
“A Great Place to Spend Time While Enjoying the View”
Being on an upper floor allows visitors to enjoy a fantastic view. Whether the weather is nice or not, the cafe provides an attractive vantage point overlooking the Nae-Su area’s charming alleyways.
Jaha stands out as a hidden cafe in the Gwanghwamun area, offering a unique blend of coffee and tteok, making it a worthwhile spot to explore.
“Jaha in Gwanghwamun, Seoul”
- Address: 4th floor, 7 Gyeonghuigung 2-gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul
- Operating Hours: (Tue-Sun) 11:00 – 18:00
- Closed on Mondays
- Instagram: Jaha Seoul