The 2 Best Yakgwa in Seoul

For those seeking to satisfy their sweet tooth with a traditional Korean treat, exploring the yakgwa options in Seoul is a must. Whether you are a local looking for a new favorite spot or a visitor wanting to delve into the city's culinary delights, Seoul offers a variety of establishments that specialize in this delectable dessert.
From family-owned shops with secret recipes passed down through generations to modern cafes putting a unique twist on the classic dish, there is no shortage of yakgwa in Seoul to choose from. To help you narrow down your options, here are the top two places to indulge in this beloved Korean snack:
- Location in the city center
- Traditional recipes vs. modern interpretations
- Price range
- Quality of ingredients
- Customer reviews and ratings
Now, let's take a closer look at The 2 Best Yakgwa in Seoul:

- Monday: 10:30 AM–9 PM
- Tuesday: 10:30 AM–9 PM
- Wednesday: 10:30 AM–9 PM
- Thursday: 10:30 AM–9 PM
- Friday: 10:30 AM–9 PM
- Saturday: 10:30 AM–9 PM
- Sunday: 10:30 AM–9 PM
1. Cheongsudang Bakery
Information and Reviews
Customers rave about their experience at Cheongsudang Bakery, with many highlighting the following key points:
- Beautiful cafe with a unique natural landscape and fish
- Delicious stone dripped egg coffee and strawberry soufflé
- Comfortable ambiance for relaxing or catching up with friends
Overall, this cafe is a must-visit in Seoul for anyone looking to indulge in tasty treats and enjoy a cozy atmosphere.

- Monday: 11:30 AM–3 PM
- Tuesday: 11:30 AM–3 PM
- Wednesday: 11:30 AM–3 PM
- Thursday: 11:30 AM–3 PM
- Friday: 11:30 AM–3 PM
- Saturday: 11:30 AM–3 PM
- Sunday: Closed
2. Balwoo Gongyang
Information and Reviews
With a solid rating of 4.2 based on 420 reviews, Balwoo Gongyang has received high praise from satisfied diners. Some key points highlighted in the reviews include:
- Customized food according to allergies
- Authentic and delicious vegetarian dishes
- Unique and flavorful dishes
- Private dining rooms for a special dining experience
One customer described it as one of the best culinary experiences ever, praising the courteous and friendly staff. Another customer mentioned that each dish is made with sincerity and delicious. While another customer expressed disappointment with the rushed service towards the end of their meal. Nonetheless, Balwoo Gongyang continues to leave a positive impression on its customers with its exquisite vegetarian offerings.
Map of Yakgwa in Seoul
Discover the top spots for yakgwa in Seoul with our comprehensive guide. From traditional bakeries to trendy cafes, this map showcases the best places to indulge in this sweet Korean treat. Whether you're a local looking for a new favorite spot or a tourist eager to experience authentic flavors, this map has you covered.
What is Yakgwa?
Yakgwa is a traditional Korean sweet pastry that is often enjoyed during festive occasions and special holidays. It is made by deep-frying wheat flour dough and then coating it in a sweet syrup made from honey, sugar, or maltose. The finished pastry is typically shaped like a flower or leaf and is known for its delicate texture and rich flavor. Yakgwa is considered a luxurious treat and is commonly served as a dessert or snack in Korea.
How is Yakgwa Made?
To make yakgwa, the dough is first kneaded with oil and water, and then rolled out thinly before being cut into various shapes. These shapes are then lightly scored with a knife to create a unique pattern. The pieces of dough are then deep-fried in oil until they are golden brown and crispy. Once fried, they are drained and then soaked in the sweet syrup to give them their signature flavor and glossy appearance. Finally, the yakgwa is left to cool and harden before being served.
Where Can You Find Yakgwa in Seoul?
If you are looking to try yakgwa in Seoul, you can find it in various traditional Korean bakeries, dessert shops, and markets throughout the city. Many restaurants and cafes also offer yakgwa as part of their dessert menu, making it easy for visitors to sample this delicious treat. Some popular places to try yakgwa in Seoul include Gwangjang Market, Insadong, and Myeongdong, where you can find a wide selection of traditional Korean snacks and sweets.
Is Yakgwa Vegan-Friendly?
While yakgwa is a vegetarian dish, it is not typically considered vegan-friendly due to the use of honey in the syrup. However, some recipes for yakgwa may use alternative sweeteners such as sugar or maltose, making them suitable for a vegan diet. If you are following a vegan lifestyle and wish to try yakgwa, be sure to ask the vendor or restaurant about the ingredients used in their recipe to ensure that it meets your dietary requirements.

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