Venturing into Seoul’s cafe culture leads you to a seemingly boundless selection of delightful spots, particularly within the trendy Mapo-gu district. Nestled here is the renowned Hongdae Shopping/Eating Street. In this piece, I’m thrilled to introduce you to another gem within this area, a cafe that deserves your attention: Garden Poete. Beyond serving delectable treats, this cafe shines with its serene atmosphere, transforming with the seasons in a uniquely captivating way. Join me on a journey as we delve into what makes this hidden treasure special—an oasis of tranquility that offers respite from the city’s bustling energy.
About Garden Poete:
Having undergone through many name changes under different management, the cafe we now know as Garden Poete (가든포에트) has settled into its current identity. Back in the day, a bunch of the indoor seating areas used to be studios showing off props and pics from those successful four-part dramas: “Autumn in my Heart” (가을동화), “Winter Sonata” (겨울연가), “Summer Scent” (여름향기), and “Spring Waltz” (봄의 왈츠). These days, they’ve kept the main building all bright with natural light and that cute little garden cottage. They turned them into very appealing spots to grub down in the restaurant that prominently specializes in wine service.
Embracing a Peaceful Vibe of Garden Poete:
Garden Poete is all about embracing tranquility, offering visitors three cozy spots to unwind: the main indoor dining room, the delightful outdoor garden, and a charming cottage that’s more than just decorative. These areas are designed to suit different needs while creating an inviting and soothing atmosphere that’s hard to resist.
Step into the main indoor eating room, which sits at the heart of the cheerful yellow main building. This spacious area is great for groups of up to four friends. Inside, the vibe is clean and bright with white walls adorned with potted plants and cool vintage knickknacks, adding a touch of timeless style. Huge windows on one side let sunlight pour in, making the room feel warm and welcoming.
Venture out to the outdoor garden, a true oasis in the middle of Seoul’s hustle and bustle. The garden’s terrace features a cute cluster of birch trees that’s just a teaser of the lush greenery that awaits. As you explore further, you’ll find a mix of plants, from blooming shrubs to twisting vines and various leafy trees. This whole ensemble creates an atmosphere that’s not only calming but also refreshingly invigorating, offering a natural escape.
Then there’s the Summer House, tucked away in the garden. It’s the last of Garden Poete’s seating options and perfect for bigger groups of up to eight. Inside, a long wooden table takes center stage, inviting everyone to gather ’round for good food and good times. While it’s wonderfully private, keep in mind that if you’re eyeing this spot, there might be a wait, as it can only host one group at a time.
Changing Seasons, Changing Charm:
Beyond the inherent tranquility that Garden Poete radiates, what truly ignites online buzz are its ever-changing tones and seasonal decorations. Let’s take a stroll through the imaginative transformations that have graced Garden Poete over the years:
Spring: As the weather warms, the garden comes alive with the vibrant hues of blooming red roses and a medley of colorful pots of flowers scattered around the space.
Summer: With each passing summer, the cafe crafts a new scene. This year, the terrace boasts adorable wooden patio furniture, accompanied by the soft glow of classic light bulbs strung between trees, conjuring an enchanting glamping retreat.
Autumn: Embracing the natural beauty of fall, Garden Poete keeps it simple during this season. All attention is drawn to the deciduous trees in the garden, which morph into a mesmerizing display of golden shades that captivate the eye.
Winter: While the outdoor seating area might not be ideal in the cold, Garden Poete compensates with a captivating photo zone. Last winter, a charming camping theme took center stage, complete with delightful decorations like a fire pit, conical tents, and playful lighting.
What’s on the Menu:
Let’s delve into the delectable offerings that grace the tables at Garden Poete. While the cafe’s signature fare pairs beautifully with a selection of wines, they also ensure a broader palette by including brunch options.
When it comes to food, the menu boasts an array of delectable choices. From indulgent brunch plates and a selection of burgers, to a variety of salads, as well as a tempting lineup of Western classics like pasta, risotto, and lasagna. Cheese enthusiasts will be pleased with their thoughtfully curated cheese platter, an ideal companion for wine connoisseurs. And for those with heartier appetites, Garden Poete satisfies with steak and grill platters to satiate even the grandest of cravings. Here’s a breakdown of some of the treats on offer at Garden Poete:
- Poet Breakfast: 17,000KW
- Burger Plate: 13,000KW~15,000KW
- Pasta: 19,000KW
- Salad: 15,000KW
- Grilled Sausage Platter: 23,000KW
- Grilled Rib Steak: 42,000KW
Turning to beverages, Garden Poete boasts an impressive lineup that befits a good brunch cafe in Seoul. For those seeking a touch of spirited indulgence, the cafe’s drink offerings extend to a diverse selection of wines. Here’s a snapshot of some of the beverage options and their prices:
- Coffee (hot/ice): 5,000KW~6,500KW
- Tea (hot/ice): 6,000KW~6,500KW
- Soft drinks: 3,500KW
- Seasonal drinks (juices/ades): 3,500KW~7,500KW
- Craft beer: 7,900KW
- Glass wine: 8,000KW
- Bottle wine: 35,000KW~84,000KW
How to get to Garden Poete:
Garden Poete is located in just a stone’s throw away distance from Sangsu Station (상수역) on Seoul Subway Line 6. Upon exiting the station at Exit 2, a brief 5-minute walk is all it takes. Look out for a narrow and slightly inclined path on your right. Follow that path, and voilà, you’ve arrived at Garden Poete!
Other Tidbits:
- Garden Poete welcomes pets
- While valet parking isn’t available, you’ll find a compact parking area on the cafe’s premises
- Garden Poete is conveniently situated just a brief 7-minute jaunt from the bustling Red Road (Hongdae Shopping Street)
And there you have it! You’re now armed with all the juicy details about Garden Poete in Mapo-gu. I trust that this post will be your reliable sidekick, leading you through the nuances of this captivating destination. Here’s to making the most of your visit to this delightful haven!
Access Map:
Quick Info About Garden Poete:
Address: 서울 마포구 와우산로14길 12 가든 포에트
Naver Map: Link
Hours: 11:30AM~10:00PM
Instagram: @garden_poete
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