A lovely cafe called “Slow Garden Coffee and Waffle” in Samcheongdong, Seoul (above).
Samcheongdong is the cafe and boutique filled area next to the presidential Blue House. There is a lot of security in this area but it is a peaceful and relaxing place to enjoy a Sunday afternoon. Many of the cafes and boutiques here are European inspired. Seoulites will usually say that Garosugil is a lot like the Europe of Seoul, but I feel that Samcheongdong is too. The cafes in particular boasts a vintage look and feel while serving modern foods. Much of the shopping and signage in Samcheongdong is artsy and crafty – most of which is managed and created by local designers and artists.
Storefronts will often display a sort of chic-Euro-Seoul eclectic mix – vintage looking bicycles, scooters, lots of greenery, ceramics, etc.
The residential part of Samcheongdong is mostly older homes – traditional Korean styles similar to the Bukchon area. Mix this with the eclectic modern neighborhood eateries and shops and you have one unique Seoul town.
