Barange's travelogue Korea. (based in seoul, South Korea)

Alway august yunman

cherry blomssom in seoul, photo by barange

Yeonnam-dong is a neighborhood filled with hidden gems, but Always August Roasters holds a special place in my heart. The name suggests a warmth that lasts all year round, and the moment you step inside, you feel it.

The external appearance, photo by barange

Info about Always august yunman

Address:71, Yeonnam-ro, Mapo-gu, Seoul, Republic of Korea

opening hours 8:30am-6pm (tue - sat),closed on Sunday, Monday

Price range: 5,000won-15,000won
brewing coffee station

coffee station is awesome.

Ecuador La papaya sidra washed

As a roastery, they take their coffee very seriously. The quality is consistent, and the presentation is impeccable.

  • Hand Drip Coffee: Their selection of single-origin beans is impressive. Each cup is brewed with precision, highlighting the unique floral and fruity notes of the beans.

vibe

pottery in flowers

As an artist who observes the quiet beauty of plants and wood, I found the interior of this cafe to be a perfect masterpiece of rustic elegance.

window view

I was particularly drawn to the subtle placement of plants throughout the cafe. The greenery against the aged wood creates a visual harmony that feels grounded and organic.

cozy table

The space is dominated by warm wooden textures and vintage-inspired furniture. It’s not a cold, modern cafe; it’s a cozy living room that invites you to stay.

My Personal Feelings & Recommendations

I felt a deep sense of calm sitting by the window here. In the busy streets of Yeonnam-dong, Always August feels like a slow-motion sanctuary.

  • If you are visiting during the weekday, grab a seat near the window. The way the natural light interacts with the wooden interior is a photographer’s dream.
  • Pair their signature filter coffee with a slice of their seasonal cake. The balance of the clean coffee and the rich dessert is the ultimate “small luxury” (Soso-ha-jim-man 확실한 행복).

Gamnamujip Gisa-sikdang.

(persimmon house driver’s restaurant)

The external appearance

Info about Gamnamujip Gisa-sikdang.

address: 23, Yeonnam-ro, Mapo-gu, Seoul, Republic of Korea

opening hours: 24hours

Price range: 11,000-15,000won
a table set
(The tray arrangement at Gamnamujip is surprisingly photogenic. Capturing the vibrant colors of the various side dishes (Banchan) is a great way to document Korean food culture)

Yeonnam-dong is famous for its “Instagrammable” cafes, but if you want to eat like a true Seoulite, you head to Gamnamujip Gisa-sikdang. Originally designed for taxi drivers who need quick, hearty, and delicious meals, “Gisa-sikdang” (Drivers’ Restaurants) have become a beloved part of Korean food culture. Gamnamujip is the most iconic among them, offering a glimpse into the bustling, authentic daily life of Seoul.

The Vibe

The atmosphere here is the polar opposite of a quiet gallery. It is energetic, organized, and filled with the savory aroma of grilled meat.

You pay upfront, and within minutes, a tray filled with a main dish and a variety of side dishes (Banchan) arrives.

I love the functional beauty of this place. The stainless steel bowls, the wooden trays, and the bright lighting reflect a culture that values efficiency without sacrificing flavor. It’s a “living museum” of Seoul’s rapid urban growth and its hardworking spirit.

menu

The Famous Pork Bulgogi (Dwaeji-bulbaek)

While they offer various dishes, there is one absolute star: Dwaeji-bulbaek (Soy-marinated grilled pork).

main menu, the pork bolgogi photo by barange

• The Flavor: The pork is thinly sliced and grilled with a sweet and savory soy sauce that has a hint of smokiness. It’s the ultimate comfort food.

• The Sides: One of the best parts of Gamnamujip is the side dishes. From a small portion of noodles (Guksu) to fresh lettuce for wraps, every element is designed to create a balanced meal. The best part? You can get refills on most side dishes!


I felt a warm sense of nostalgia eating here. In a city that changes so fast, Gamnamujip remains a reliable anchor of flavor. It’s where you go when you’re truly hungry and want a meal that feels like a home-cooked dinner from a Korean mother.

“This place gained nationwide fame after appearing on the popular TV show ‘Infinite Challenge’.”

My Personal Feelings & Recommendations

  • My Recommendation: Definitely go for the Pork Bulgogi (Dwaeji-bulbaek). If you are a group, try adding the Grilled Mackerel (Godeungeo-gui) for a perfect land-and-sea combination.
  • Tip for Tourists: Don’t be intimidated by the fast pace! The staff is used to busy crowds. Just find a seat, order your meal, and enjoy the “K-Diner” experience.

#restaurant #seoulhotplace #yunnamcafe #yunnamrestaurant