Like many café enthusiasts, I’ve included Café Onion 망고플레이트 in my travel plans, drawn to its reputation for industrial-hipster aesthetics and Instagram-worthy features. Café Onion has a total of three outlets in Seoul, situated in Seongsu-dong, Anguk, and Gangbuk-gu. Instead of opting for the popular Seong-su location, I chose to visit the one in Anguk due to its proximity to where I was staying.
The Anguk outlet diverges from the industrial vibes found in other Onion locations, presenting a unique aesthetic compared to the rest. Designed to mimic a Hanok, a traditional Korean house from the 14th century during the Joseon Dynasty, this outlet boasts traditional roof tiles and wooden interiors. Café Onion in Anguk transports visitors to a different era, evoking a distinctive sense of time travel.
The place tends to get crowded quickly, with a lengthy line forming even if you arrive early. To bypass the queue and secure a seat promptly, it’s advisable to arrive as early as possible. However, be prepared for a potential wait before getting seated.
Once you’ve queued up for your seat, there’s another line you’ll need to join to purchase your bread and drink. The process might take additional time, given that they operate with a single counter for serving customers. So, it’s recommended to factor in extra time for both queuing for a seat and making your food and drink purchases.
With an extensive selection of 20 bread options ranging from sweet to savoury, deciding can be a delightful challenge. If, like me, you find it hard to choose, consider sampling a variety of flavours. Among the noteworthy choices is the renowned Pandoro (priced at 5,000 Won) – an Italian-style bread adorned with powdered sugar. Its presence at this outlet adds a touch of Korean influence to the bakery. The Pandoro itself is a delightful pastry, striking a perfect balance with sweetness and a pleasantly fluffy texture.
While it might not claim the title of the absolute best bakery (at least for me) in Seoul, Café Onion 망고플레이트 is undeniably worth a visit for its unique vibes and overall experience. The ambience and distinctive aesthetic, coupled with the extensive bread selection, create an atmosphere that transcends the typical bakery visit. It may not be the top choice for the absolute best pastries, but the combination of industrial-hipster vibes, Instagram-worthy features, and diverse bread options make it a noteworthy stop for those seeking more than just a traditional bakery experience in Seoul.
Onion Anguk 망고플레이트
Address: South Korea, Seoul, Jongno-gu, Gyedong-gil 5 (Anguk Station, Exit 3) 서울특별시 종로구 계동길 5
Opening Hours: 7 am – 10 pm (Mon – Fri), 9 am – 10 pm (Sat-Sun)
Google Maps – Onion Anguk
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