Ikseon-dong is a quaint and historic neighborhood located in the heart of Seoul, South Korea, known for its charming blend of traditional and modern elements. This area, which began as a residential neighborhood in the 1920s, features a labyrinth of narrow alleys lined with hanoks, traditional Korean houses. Over the years, many of these hanoks have been lovingly restored and converted into trendy cafes, boutique shops, and gourmet restaurants, offering a unique cultural experience.

The juxtaposition of old and new makes Ikseon-dong a popular destination for both locals and tourists seeking a taste of Korea's heritage alongside contemporary Korean lifestyle. The neighborhood is particularly famous for its viral cafes and aesthetic restaurants. Let's check out which ones are worth visiting!

Jayeondo Salt Bread (자연도소금빵)

Salt bread has become extremely popular in South Korea over the past few years. This bread is buttery and pillowy, topped with flaky salt, and has a idea similar to a croissant but is much denser. Jayeondo Salt Bread, which also has locations in Seongsu, is known for their salt breads with an extra crisp on the bottom, thanks to the amount of butter they use. 

For a better experience, visit when the salt bread is freshly baked; the baking times are listed below. At the Ikseon-dong branch, if you want to sit on the terrace, you'll need to purchase a drink from the adjacent cafe.

Hours: 09:00 - 22:00 (Warm bread at 09:00, 12:30, 14:00, 15:30, 17:00, 18:30)

Address: 21-17 Supyoro28-gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul (서울 종로구 수표로28길 21-17)

Ikseon Atteut (익선애뜻)

Ikseon Atteut is frequently featured on social media and is among the most popular restaurants in Ikseon-dong. The interior blends modern elements with traditional Korean hanok details, offering a variety of seating options.

The menu puts a modern twist on traditional Korean dishes, creating a casual dining experience. Be sure to try their fruity makgeolli while you're there.

Hours: Everyday 12:00 - 21:00

Address: 24 Donhwamunro11da-gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul (서울 종로구 돈화문로11다길 24)

Cafe Highwaist (카페 하이웨이스트)

Cafe Highwaist is often recognized as the sister cafe to the well-known Cafe Layered, sharing a similar vibe but with a whimsical touch of cartoons. Delicious desserts are displayed at the counter, allowing you to select your favorites on a tray.

Cafe Highwaist is also known for their cute cakes. K-pop idols like BTS's Suga and Blackpink's Jennie have been seen gifted cakes from Cafe Highwaist during special occasions. 

Hours: Everyday 09:00 - 22:00

Address: 18 Donhwamunro11-da-gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul (서울 종로구 돈화문로11다길 18)

Book your cake in advance right here on Creatrip! 

Cafe Highwaist Cake Pick-up

Solsot (솔솥) 

Solsot, another social media favorite, specializes in a rice dish served in a hot pot. The rice gets super crispy on the bottom, but you're not supposed to enjoy it crispy. Pour their special broth onto the crispy rice, after you've scooped out 90% of it, for a delicious porridge-like palette cleanser.

Hours: Everyday 11:30 - 21:00 (Break time from 15:00 - 17:00; Last order at 14:30, 20:30)

Address: 46 Samildaero30-gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul (서울 종로구 삼일대로30길 46)

Cheongsudang (청수당)

As soon as you step into Cheongsudang, it feels as though you've entered a bamboo forest. The serene decor transports you to a peaceful, natural setting, enveloping you in an atmosphere of tranquility.

The cafe is mostly known for their souffles, but recently came out with a collection of yakgwa, a Korean traditional snack that's currently trending all across the country. 

Hours: Everyday 10:30 - 21:00 (Last order at 20:30)

Address: 31-9 Donhwamunro11-na-gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul (서울 종로구 돈화문로11나길 31-9)

Soha Salt Pond (소하염전)

As you can tell from the abundance of salt bread bakery cafes, South Korea's obsession with salt bread is here to stay for a while. Unlike Jayeondo Salt Bread, where they only have one item on their menu, Soha Salt Bread takes it to another level and has numerous flavors of salt bread. 

At Soha Salt Bread, they love to experiment with their flavors, ranging from sweet to savory, and even combinations of both in one. We highly recommend trying the Truffle Salt Bread; it's an explosion of flavor.

Hours: 09:00 - 21:00 (Last order at 20:30) 

Address: 21-5 Supyoro28-gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul (서울 종로구 수표로28길 21-5)

We hope that you can enjoy your visit to Ikseon-dong! If you have any questions or concerns, please leave a comment below or send us an email at help@creatrip.com! You can follow us on Instagram, TikTok, Twitter, and Facebook to stay updated on all things Korea!