Traditional Korean Tea With a Modern Twist in Songjeong
2 minute read
Songjeong is usually known for its surf scene, toast, and the Blueline coastal train. A little less for its cozy cafes, so finding a place that focuses on traditional tea felt refreshing. Suwolgyeonghwa is a stunning teahouse that serves an authentic traditional Korean experience with a modern twist. Compared to full traditional tea houses, which are filled mainly with older women, this tea house is packed with a younger crowd.
The tea house is on the 4th floor. When you step inside, you feel the classic hanok style, with wooden beams, paper doors, the whole vibe. There is a softness to the space that immediately makes you lower your voice. Right away you will see the amazing view of Songjeong beach and the Blueline train track crossing in front of the building. Watching the train pass every few minutes while sipping tea adds something surprisingly calming to the whole experience.
We ordered the signature dessert set with two teas: Black Moon Hoji and Melonmangs, a winter and a summer tea. Every pot of tea comes with a card explaining the flavor notes, caffeine level, and best enjoyed tips. The prices are surprisingly reasonable for a place with a premium vibe, especially considering the quality of the teas and the view you get along with it.
The teas were great. I am a big fan of Hojicha, so I knew this was going to be good, but I was most surprised by the summer melon tea. The tea was so refreshing and of a quality I do not think I have had before. No wonder they have won prizes from the International Taste Institute, Teablender Masters, and the Teasigner Championship. Everything tastes intentional and well crafted.
The desserts looked like artwork. They were all traditional desserts but modernized. The monaka, for example, had a white chocolate filling instead of the traditional white bean paste. These twists are why the teahouse is more popular with the younger crowd and why the place feels more current than old fashioned.
What I love most about this place is how it bridges tradition and modern tastes. It feels alive and like something young Koreans actually want to experience. So if you are in Songjeong, do yourself a favor and skip the Starbucks or Compose Coffee for once, and have a traditional Korean tea experience with amazing views of Songjeong beach.
Location & Opening times
For those familiar in Songjeong, it's on the corner at the car underpass at the beach.
Integrating in Korea one blog post at a time
Related posts
Choconavi in Suwon, a cafe that crafts in-house chocolate treats. Try fresh chocolate ice cream, bean-to-bar chocolates, and more!
If you're craving amazing tonkatsu in Busan, head to Katsushin in the Jungdong area of Haeundae. Thick, juicy pork cutlets, friendly service, and must-try cheese balls.
A gem in Haeundae that's not just another coffee spot. Owned by Paul and his sisters Mia and Erin, this cafe will be your new favorite hangout for its coziness, awesome coffee and delicious bread
