Some places live in your mind long after you’ve visited, calling you back for a specific moment in time. For me, that place is Staff Picks Cafe, and that moment is the peak of its legendary ginkgo tree.
It took me two full fall seasons to finally return and witness this famous tree in its prime. My visit yesterday was nothing short of pure joy. The picture-perfect vision of golden ginkgo leaves painting the entire cafe in a brilliant, fiery gold is a memory I will cherish for a long, long time.
In this post, I’m sharing my firsthand experience along with stunning photos and all the essential tips you need to make your own autumn pilgrimage to Staff Picks.
About Staff Picks Cafe
Tucked away in a charming neighborhood near Gyeongbokgung Palace, Staff Picks Cafe is more than just a coffee shop—it’s a destination. While it’s a wonderful spot year-round, it truly achieves iconic status in autumn, becoming a must-visit for locals and travelers alike, all drawn by the magnificent giant ginkgo tree that stands proudly in its front yard.
The Menu: Cozy Drinks & Sweet Treats
Whether you’re a coffee aficionado or have a sweet tooth, Staff Picks has you covered. Their menu is diverse, ensuring there’s a perfect companion for your leaf-peeping session.
Drinks: Choose from a range of coffee options like espresso, americano, and cafe latte. If you prefer non-coffee, they offer delicious chocolate, matcha, and Earl Grey lattes, assorted teas, seasonal ades, and even a glass of wine.
Desserts: Pair your drink with a slice of cake, pie, or a cup of their artisanal ice cream.
Cost: The prices are very much in line with other trendy cafes in Seoul, with drinks ranging from ₩5,500 to ₩9,500 and desserts from ₩6,000 to ₩8,500.
The Seating: Where to Soak In the View
The cafe offers two distinct atmospheres, both centered around the glorious tree.
Indoor Zone: The inside is wonderfully homey and filled with artsy decor. The real highlight is the floor-to-ceiling windows that allow you to admire the golden view from the warmth and comfort of inside. It’s the perfect cozy spot.
The Front Yard (The Star!): This is where the magic happens. In the heart of the yard stands the fully-grown ginkgo tree, the undeniable star of the show. Cozy benches and groups of lawn furniture are arranged around it, offering visitors the chance to sit right under its golden canopy.
Staff Picks in Autumn: A Jaw-Dropping Spectacle
Words and pictures can hardly do the scene justice. Seeing the ginkgo tree at its peak is a truly jaw-dropping experience. The entire yard is bathed in a warm, golden light. My visit was on a perfectly bright day—sunny with a bright blue sky that made the gold of the tree and the carpet of leaves on the ground look extra vibrant and surreal. It’s a living, breathing postcard.
When is the Best Time to Visit?
Timing is everything. Based on my observation, the magnificent ginkgo at Staff Picks reaches its peak quite late compared to other foliage spots in Seoul. If you’re hoping to see the stunning golden sights featured in this post, aim for mid-November. My visit was on November 19th, and the tree was an absolute vision.
Pro-Tips for the Perfect Visit
Come Early! Staff Picks is a certified hot spot during autumn. It gets incredibly crowded very quickly, even on weekdays. If you arrive late, the view you’ll get is throngs of cafe-goers instead of an unobstructed sea of gold.
Add a ‘Grammy Touch: For that perfect Instagram shot, order a warm cup of latte. The cute cup and beautiful latte art add a wonderful touch when placed against the golden ginkgo background.
Dress Warmly: If you plan to sit in the yard, remember that mid-November in Seoul can be quite chilly!
How to Get There
Getting to Staff Picks is straightforward.
- Subway: Take Seoul Subway Line 3 and get off at Gyeongbokgung Station.
- Exit: Use Exit 1.
- Walk: It’s a pleasant 8-minute walk from the station.
So, if you’re planning a trip to Seoul in the fall, do not miss the golden spectacle at Staff Picks Cafe. It’s more than just a coffee break; it’s an unforgettable autumn experience.
Access Map
Quick Info about Staff Picks
Address: 서울 종로구 사직로9길 22 102호
Naver Map: Link
Hours: 10:00-21:00
Instagram: @staffpicks_official
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