Cafe imA -- Seoul, Korea

Cafe imA is an outrageously popular cafe located in Seoul's Gwanghwamun area. For those of you who have been to Seoul, you probably know that trendy cafes and coffee shops are prevalent throughout the metropolis; however, Cafe imA seems just a bit out of place in this older part of town....its modern and sophisticated ambience seems to fit more with the likes of Cheongdam-dong or Apgujeong than in Jongno-gu. Nonetheless, it seems to be relatively well-known among Seoul's foodies and dessert enthusiasts, and is always sure to be packed.

The undisputed specialty here is the fresh waffles with ice cream. The waffles are a masterpiece in themselves, coming out at just the right temperature; the outside is perfectly crispy, while the inside is warm and moist like a freshly-baked cake. The waffles are accompanied by two scoops of premium Haagen Dazs ice cream of your choice of flavor (green tea and vanilla are a personal favorite, although chocolate and strawberry are also on offer), then finished off with two dollops of whipped cream and a sprinkling of powdered sugar. The contrast between the warm doughy waffle and the sweet coolness of the ice cream....heaven I tell you!

Fresh waffles with Haagen Dazs ice cream (12,000 won or  ~$11)

Aside from waffles, Cafe imA also offers an array of Western savory items (along the lines of brunch dishes such as croissant sandwiches, paninis, hamburger steak etc.), as well as more sweet tooth-satisfying selections such as pies, cakes and patbingsu (shaved ice). Nonetheless, the winner still remains the waffles....as can be attested by the sight of this divine delicacy on every table. 

If you find yourself craving a sweet treat for refueling after exploring the Gyeongbokgung Palace, Cheonggyecheon Stream or any of the other numerous nearby attractions, Cafe imA should definitely be high on your list. It's quite convenient....located on the ground floor of the Ilmin Museum of Art, immediately visible on your right after coming up from Exit 5 of the Gwanghwamun subway station. Once again, it's extremely popular....so do expect a wait. Cliche as it sounds, although the queue can be long, the prices a bit steep, and the calories equally steep....it's worth every bite!

Cafe imA

139 Sejong-no, Jongno-gu

Seoul, Korea

Map

02 2020 2088

Tues-Sun 10:00AM-10:00PM

Closed Mon 

ilmin.org

(Korean page only)