After discovering that my trip to Busan would feature an overnight stay at Gwangalli Beach, I eagerly listed numerous cafes to explore. I was well-aware of the area’s reputation, not just for its breathtaking views but also for its exceptional coffee. Yet, due to our packed itinerary, we only managed to visit one café. After much deliberation, we settled on ‘Casa Busano.’ In this post, I’ll share our memorable experience at the Casa Busano Gwangan branch. Without further ado, let’s dive in!
About Casa Busano:
Playing cleverly with the term ‘Busano,’ representing the cultural architects of Busan, and blending it with the Italian ‘Casa,’ meaning home, Casa Busano encapsulates the essence of a welcoming haven immersed in Busan’s cultural tapestry. Since its inception in 2003, Casa Busano has expanded to two iconic locations: its flagship in Haeundae and a picturesque outlet overlooking Gwangalli. While Busan boasts numerous coffee havens with stunning ocean views, Casa Busano distinguishes itself with a unique allure. Hence, we dedicated our morning to experience the ambiance of its illustrious Gwangan branch.
Casa Busano Gwangan Branch Ambiance:
Nestled along Gwangan Beach Road (광안해변로) in the heart of Suyeong District, central Busan, this branch enjoys a prime location. The entire stretch of this iconic street is celebrated for its panoramic views of the beach, accentuated by the elegant arches of the Gwangan Bridge. Casa Busano’s Gwangan outlet perfectly captures this allure.
The cafe’s ground-floor setting offers patrons an intimate proximity to Gwangan Beach, merely a stone’s throw away across a quaint two-lane road. On milder days, the café’s expansive floor-to-ceiling windows are flung open, inviting the refreshing sea breeze to dance through the interiors. The coveted seating area by these windows offers guests an immersive experience, akin to lounging before a dynamic canvas where the ocean paints an endless tapestry of tranquility.
If the window-side seats are occupied, don’t be disheartened; instead, venture further into Casa Busano’s inviting interior. You’ll soon discover that the café offers much more than its charming ambiance.
Adjacent to the main seating area, a rustic wooden shelf proudly showcases an array of Casa Busano merchandise, extending beyond just coffee. Among the offerings are trendy skate-inspired apparel, caps, and a diverse range of lifestyle and outdoor accessories, from camping chairs and phone grips to fragrances.
What truly caught my attention was Casa Busano’s unexpected collection of cigars—a refined touch I hadn’t anticipated finding in a Korean café, or indeed, anywhere else. Deep within the Gwangan Branch, tucked behind shimmering sliding doors, lies a dedicated space for cigar aficionados—a hidden gem within the café’s eclectic offerings.
Their Espresso Specialty:
Following my memorable visit to Molto, my appreciation for espresso has deepened considerably. Thus, upon discovering that Casa Busano proudly identifies as an espresso bar, boasting an extensive array of coffee choices, I was naturally drawn to it, elevating its priority on my list of cafes to visit. This allure was a primary factor in our decision to choose Casa Busano for our morning indulgence. Their menu showcases an impressive selection, featuring over 15 distinct espresso and espresso-based beverages, each promising a unique and flavorful experience.
What Else is on Casa Busano’s Menu:
Beyond their impressive range of espresso offerings, Casa Busano doesn’t stop at just coffee. Their menu boasts a diverse selection catering to various tastes. From artisanal teas and refreshing beverages to a curated assortment of snacks and light bites, there’s something for everyone. Additionally, for those seeking heartier options, they also feature a few signature baguettes and pastries, ensuring that patrons have a well-rounded dining experience to complement their coffee choices.
Food Review:
Our culinary journey at Casa Busano was nothing short of delightful. We began with a velvety cup of hot flat white, its rich espresso perfectly balanced with creamy milk, creating a harmonious blend of flavors and textures. The Busano Krempresso, a unique concoction of espresso, luscious cream, and a hint of brown sugar, was a true standout. The interplay of the robust espresso with the sweet undertones of brown sugar, elevated by the creamy richness, made it a memorable choice.
To complement our coffee choices, we opted for the Gambas al Ajillo—a dish that truly exceeded expectations. The succulent shrimp, sautéed in a flavorful garlic-infused olive oil, presented a tantalizing aroma even before the first bite. Each shrimp was perfectly cooked, capturing the essence of the garlic and complemented by a subtle hint of spice. The dish not only showcased Casa Busano’s commitment to quality ingredients but also their prowess in delivering a gastronomic experience that resonates with both flavor and finesse. Overall, our selections were a testament to Casa Busano’s culinary prowess, leaving us eager to explore more of their offerings in the future.
Reaching Casa Busano Gwangan Branch:
If you’re traveling to Busan by train, Busan Station will likely be your point of arrival. Navigating from Busan Station to Casa Busano Gwangan Branch is straightforward. Head to bus stop number 03720, conveniently located near exits 6 or 7 of the subway station. Catch bus number 41 and ride for 18 stops until you reach Gwangil Mansion Bus Stop (광일맨션) – marked as stop number 14076. From there, it’s just a brisk three-minute walk towards the beach to reach Casa Busano Gwangan Branch. The entire journey typically lasts around 35 minutes, with a bus fare of a mere 1,550 KRW.
Access Map:
Quick Info About Casa Busano Gwangan Branch:
Address: 부산 수영구 광안해변로 179 1층
Naver Map: Link
Hours: 8:30AM~1:00AM (Everyday)
Instagram: @casabusano
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