South Korea, especially its capital Seoul, is highly saturated with coffee shops. Recently, Starbucks has opened its 1000th store in Korea, and other coffee shops, including franchised or independent businesses, are also on an upwardย trend.
Although it’s a lot of fun finding quirky, unique independentย coffee shops, there will beย times when you just donโt want to roam foreign streets to quench your thirst for coffee (especially if youโre visiting Korea during the sweltering summer season).
For those times, weโve created a list ofย the best food and drink to order from popular franchise coffee shops in Korea.
Starbucks
1. Fresh Cream Castella

Filled with fresh cream, this fluffy sponge cake goes especially well with hot coffee.
2. Sausage Roll

If you’re looking for something savory for your breakfast or lunch, try this bagel-and-sausage hybrid.
3. Choux Cream Latte

This coffee drink inspired by cream puffs is topped with custard cream.
4. Double Shot
Double shot, which is available in three varieties of vanilla, caramel, and hazelnut, is a secret item that’s not listed on the menu.ย It’s loaded with caffeine so take one as an energy booster!
Caffe Bene
1. Bingsu

Although Caffe Bene is one of the most accessible brands in Korea, they’re not necessarily known for serving best coffee drinks. However, they have some solid bingsuย selections! Tryย either Coffee Bingsu or Choco Devil Bingsu and you won’t be disappointed.
Tom N Toms
1. Honey Butter Bread
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Tom N Toms serves some of the best Block Toasts! We recommendย this classic Honey Butter, which is generously topped with fresh whipped cream.
2. Sweet Potato Pretzel
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But the real star at Tom N Toms is their filled pretzels! This heated pastry comes in various toppings, including Jalapeno, Beef, Shrimp, and Kimchi, but Sweet Potato Pretzel is definitely a must-try item.
Ediya Coffee
1. Americano
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This affordable coffee shop serves some quality espresso drinks.
2. Cereal Latte
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If you’re not a coffee lover, try their Cereal Latte (“Yi-gokย Latte”).
Twosome Place
This coffee shop chain is known for serving the best desserts among all – sometimes even better than those served at dessert specialized cake shops. Any dessert item won’t fail you, but below are some of the best ones.
1. Cookies and Cream Ice Box Cake

2. Tiramisu

3. Strawberry Chocolate Fresh Cream Cake

By Heewon Kim


