Passion 5

Amidst the omnipresent bakeries and cafes in Seoul, Passion 5 positions itself as a premium dessert cafe of the SPC group. I found out about Passion 5 through my Korean teacher who told us their strawberry tiramisu is the best she’s ever had. So I made my way down to Itaewon with my friends and we were enamoured by the largest collection of icecream / pastries / cakes / chocolates all in one level! The coffee is the priciest I’ve seen at 8,000won for a glass of iced americano (it is refillable, as we found out later, until they sneakily took away our receipt after the 3rd time), but their cakes are really dainty and pretty and most of all yummy. The strawberry tiramisu is just alright though, compared to their cakes and tarts! I think there’s a second and third floor but we didn’t venture upstairs.

It’s also a habit to get flowers each time I visit Passion 5 because I like flowers.

Meal°

Meal° or Meal-do is a small bakery located near Ttukseom station and is by far my favourite bakery in Seoul. Even though its a fairly new bakery, it is really popular with most of its bread selling off the shelves even by 4pm. I suggest going early at 12noon or making a reservation with them especially for their well known cube breads and loafs. If you’re lucky or patient enough, they will replenish the stocks so ask them! The custard cube is my favourite as its filled right to the brim with custard and cream. When I’m craving for something savory, I go for its curry cube that’s filled with Japanese curry. The chestnut loaf was super moist and still hot when I bought it.

Cafe Seongsu

Cafe Seongsu is a large three stories cafe/restaurant that is located 10-15minutes away from Exit 8 of Ttukseom Station. The space is use to host private events occasionally and they do a full dining menu as well. I met my language partner in this cafe so I’ve been there a few times and it brings back good memories! I really like their tomato soup, and their flower pot bread that is served warm and comes with 5 different spreads for you to dip and enjoy. They also do a pretty decent latte.