Spring in Seoul is a time for chasing blooms, and cafe-hopping takes on a magical, floral twist. But what if you could combine that flower-seeking adventure with one of the city’s most uniquely themed cafes? Enter Cilantro Coffee—a place that’s more than just a cute, quirky concept for herb lovers. It’s a springtime destination that captures the hearts of flower seekers and curious foodies alike. Join me as I share why spring is the perfect time to plan your trip to this unforgettable Seoul cafe.
About Cilantro Coffee: Where Veggies Meet Your Coffee Cup
Tucked beside the renowned Seoul Children’s Grand Park in Gwangjin-gu, Cilantro Coffee (실란트로커피) lives up to its name—but also holds delightful surprises. Yes, this is a coffee place that boldly features cilantro and vegetables in its menu creations, but it’s so much more than that. From their quirky representative drink, the Fresh Cilantro Coffee (생생고수커피), to the refreshingly appealing Fresh Mint Chocolate (생생민트쇼콜라), it’s no wonder this cafe has become a magnet for cafe-goers who love discovering the new and novel.
How to Get There
Finding Cilantro Coffee is a breeze. Simply take the Seoul Subway to Achasan Station (아차산역) on Line 5 (Station #545). From Exit 3, it’s less than a five-minute walk. Easy, right?
Stepping Into the Charm: A Tour of the Cafe
Cilantro Coffee is one of the most thoughtfully adorned cafes I’ve visited in Seoul. It’s a two-story establishment, and each well-organized seating zone has its own captivating charm.
First Floor: This is where you’ll find the order counter and a tempting array of delicious-looking baked goods. The space is filled with antique wooden decor and furniture, bathed in warm lighting that creates a cozy, welcoming atmosphere. It feels like stepping into the lovely hospitality of your grandparents’ home—welcomed with a warm hug and the scent of something freshly baked.
Second Floor: Here, the vibe shifts beautifully. Almost every side of this floor boasts floor-to-ceiling windows, flooding the space with natural light. It’s brighter and airier, designed to accommodate groups with long tables fitting 6-7 people. But the real gem is in one corner: a terrace/balcony space that offers an outdoor breeze and dappled sunshine under the shade of a tree from the neighboring house.
The Spring Secret: Why This Cafe Blooms with Popularity
Remember that tree? It’s not just any tree—it’s a mature magnolia shrub, and when it blooms, it transforms Cilantro Coffee into a venue for pure flower magic.
When to Go: Magnolias in Korea generally reach their peak bloom from late March to early April. I visited on March 28th and caught the white magnolia at its absolute peak, a breathtaking sight that frames the terrace perfectly.
Pro Tips for Your Visit
- Timing is Everything: When the magnolia blooms, the cafe gets extremely crowded. For the best experience, visit early during opening hours on a weekday.
- Photo Spot Etiquette: Be prepared for a line for the prime photo spot on the second-floor terrace. Be respectful of others waiting, and try not to take too long capturing your shots.
- Don’t Skip the Bakes: Their egg tart was delicious—a perfect, buttery companion to their innovative drinks!
Final Verdict
Cilantro Coffee is a delightful paradox—a place where the earthy, unique flavors of cilantro meet the sweet, fleeting beauty of spring magnolias. It’s more than a themed cafe; it’s a seasonal experience, a cozy retreat, and a photographer’s dream all in one. Whether you’re a devoted cilantro fan, a blossom chaser, or simply a seeker of Seoul’s unique cafes, Cilantro Coffee in spring is an absolute must-visit. Plan your trip around that last week of March, order something curiously fresh, and let yourself be charmed by the magic.
Access Map
Quick Info about Cilantro Coffee
Address: 서울 광진구 천호대로132길 10 1층
Hours: 9:30-22:00 (everyday)
Instagram: @cilantrocoffee_official
Naver Map: Link
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