Cuisine

Traditional Tea (전통 찻집)

District

Jongno (종로구) , Seoul

Address

Seoul Jongno-gu Samcheong-ro 122-1

Quick read

Why go

Seoul-seo Duljjaero Jalhaneun Jip is an iconic traditional Korean tea house on Samcheong-ro in Jongno-gu, Seoul, recognized as one of Samcheong-dong's most enduring establishments.

Best for

Coffee, dessert, and a slower break

Visit tip

Popular items or seats may run out. Earlier visits are safer.

Map

Google Maps Naver Map Kakao Map

Check hours and routes before you go.

Seoul-seo Duljjaero Jalhaneun Jip is an iconic traditional Korean tea house on Samcheong-ro in Jongno-gu, Seoul, recognized as one of Samcheong-dong's most enduring establishments. The house-made danpatjuk (sweet red bean porridge) is the undisputed star, served with plump glutinous rice dumplings, chestnuts, kidney beans, and a single ginkgo nut, dusted with cinnamon that deepens the interplay between the sweetness of the red bean and the warmth of the spice. The glutinous rice dumplings are large and soft, pairing beautifully with the porridge, while the lone ginkgo nut, saved for the final bite, releases its distinctive aroma across the palate as a perfect closing note. The proprietor brews tea from dungulle root personally foraged from the mountains and serves it in a yellow kettle, a small ritual that adds a layer of experience unique to this shop; the slightly bitter yet nutty flavor of this tea alone justifies the visit. Ssanghwacha (herbal tonic tea) carries the strong bitterness characteristic of traditional medicine, so requesting honey makes it more approachable. Sujeongggwa arrives with pine nuts and dried persimmon, and sikhye is also available but tends to sell out within the day, so early visits secure the full menu. The retro interior evokes a 1980s Korean tearoom, with aged tables and chairs that speak to the space's history. The simple, focused menu drives fast table turnover, so even a visible queue moves more quickly than expected. A bowl of danpatjuk at 8,000 won is not large in portion, but measured against the price of a modern latte, the value holds up well. The location is perfectly suited for a sweet pick-me-up after a walk through the Samcheong-dong neighborhood.