5 Must-Visit Specialty Coffee Cafés in Gongdeok

Gongdeok is a dynamic neighborhood where residential buildings, office spaces, hotels, and parks coexist. As a result, people from all walks of life gather here for different reasons. This diversity has fostered a vibrant café scene, with many unique spots offering distinctive atmospheres and high-quality coffee. In this post, we introduce five outstanding specialty coffee cafés in Gongdeok that excel in taste, ambiance, and overall experience.

Fritz Coffee Company, Dohwa (프릳츠 도화점)

Fritz’s Dohwa branch was the brand’s very first location and remains an iconic name in Korea’s specialty coffee industry. This café, housed in a renovated traditional Korean home, exudes retro charm and warmth. It’s a welcoming space where locals gather to chat over exceptional coffee and freshly baked pastries. Fritz is also well-known for its delicious bread—one of my personal favorites is the President’s Special, a peach Danish that I highly recommend.

Fritz Coffee Company on Google Maps

Huelgo (후엘고)

Walking up the hilly streets of Yeomni-dong, you’ll discover a hidden gem called Huelgo. For three consecutive years, this specialty coffee roastery has been recognized by the Blue Ribbon Survey—testament to its growing reputation among coffee aficionados. Once inside, you’ll be greeted by a warm and inviting atmosphere. The café’s soothing wooden décor and soft lighting create a cozy space, complemented by quiet music perfect for a relaxing break.

A must-try here is their signature dessert, “후떡후떡”—a creative fusion of hotteok (a sweet Korean pancake), olive oil, ice cream, and a hint of pepper. This unlikely combination delivers an irresistible blend of sweetness, cool creaminess, and aromatic undertones. Huelgo also offers a variety of seasonal beverages, giving you a new reason to visit each time and taste the changing flavors of the season.

Huelgo on Google Maps

Grotto Coffee (그로토)

Located near Gongdeok Station, Grotto is a basement café featuring a unique cave concept that still manages to feel cozy rather than dark. Every detail—from the coffee cups to the interior décor—adds to the special experience. Grotto is known for its high-quality specialty coffee and signature milk tea. Popular menu items include the Americano, Café Latte, and of course, the milk tea. The milk tea, in particular, stands out for its robust black tea flavor blended with smooth, creamy milk.

Grotto Coffee on Google Maps

Little Heal Brewers (리틀 힐 브루어스)

With a large window overlooking lush greenery, Little Hill Brewers offers the perfect spot to unwind. As the name suggests, they specialize in filter-brewed coffee, but their espresso-based drinks are equally delightful. One top recommendation is the cream latte, beloved by many patrons for its velvety texture. Thanks to its comfortable seating and spacious layout, this café is an ideal place to stop by when strolling along the Gyeongui Line Forest Trail.

Little Heal Brewers on Google Maps

Pomellow Bean (포멜로빈 공덕점)

Overlooking the Gyeongui Line Forest Trail, Pomellow Bean (or 포멜로빈) is a roastery café with a charming, vintage-inspired interior and large windows that let you enjoy the view. It’s a popular local spot, often bustling with visitors. With a wide variety of coffee options, Pomellow Bean makes it easy for anyone—beginners and connoisseurs alike—to pick out beans by displaying their acidity levels on a handy chart. If you’re new to specialty coffee, this is a fantastic place to explore different flavor profiles and find your perfect cup.

Pomellow Bean on Google Maps

Specialty Coffee in Gongdeok

Gongdeok’s thriving café culture offers everything from cozy basement hideaways to vintage-inspired roasteries overlooking scenic trails. Whether you’re a seasoned coffee connoisseur or simply looking for a warm place to relax, each spot provides its own blend of ambience, flavor, and creativity. Make time to explore these specialty coffee destinations and savor the diverse experiences this vibrant neighborhood has to offer.