Haap

Tucked away in Seoul’s historic Jongno district, Haap is the kind of dessert destination that deserves a spot on your afternoon agenda. This isn’t your typical cafe with elaborate parfaits and Instagram-ready creations. Instead, Haap takes a decidedly minimalist approach, showcasing the understated elegance of traditional Korean confections in a serene setting.

The menu reads like a love letter to Korean culinary heritage. Delicate tteok arrives dusted with roasted bean powder or sweet chestnut, each bite soft and subtly sweet without overwhelming your palate. Tiny jujube and white-bean confections offer just enough sweetness to satisfy without veering into saccharine territory. These are treats meant to be savored slowly, appreciated for their restraint as much as their flavor.

The real draw, though, is the baesuk. This traditional beverage features gently simmered Asian pear infused with honey, ginger, cinnamon, and jujube. It’s warm, aromatic, and has an almost restorative quality that makes you want to linger. For first-timers, the Wonseo location offers a tea set for 15,000 KRW that serves as an excellent introduction, pairing hangwa confections with a rotating cake of the day.

Haap is perfect for those seeking a contemplative break from Seoul’s bustling streets, a place where traditional Korean sweets take center stage and every element feels thoughtfully considered.