(Photo by Hyemin Lee)
In Korea, many locals have a common hangout routine which involves visiting a good restaurant to enjoy delicious dishes and then heading to a café for delicious desserts. Following this trend, numerous cafés have evolved to stand out among thousands of others. Fortunately, it’s effortless in Korea to find eye-catching cafés with delectable desserts and photogenic interiors!
When it’s cold, rainy, or snowy outside and you don’t want to travel far but still want to enjoy a delightful time with your favorite people, check out these three must-visit cafes where you can experience a brief, fun escape near Camp Humphreys.
1. Café Archive (카페 아카이브)
Located right next to the Oseong-gang River, this café is one of the best in the area and is only a 10-minute drive from Camp Humphreys’ Adams Gate or Yoon Gate. You will be amazed by two reasons at this café. First, it boasts a stunning river view on all floors! The second floor is perfect for enjoying the river view inside, and the rooftop terrace is a true gem, especially during good weather. The café is three stories and very spacious, great for accommodating many visitors. Free parking spots are also available.
Also, the café surprises visitors with its variety of delicious and tempting bread, pastries, and cakes! Choosing desserts can be a challenge due to the many great options. But that’s a good problem to have!
Drinks are priced between 5,500 won to 8,000 won, and pastries range from 4,000 won to 10,000 won. Although the prices are relatively high compared to other cafés, the blend of the beautiful river view and delicious pastries makes it worth a visit. Note that for kids’ safety, they aren’t allowed on the second and third floors. Keep in mind that as one of the hottest cafes in Pyeongtaek, Café Archive can be quite busy during weekends.
Address: 468 Gangbyeon-ro, Pyeongtaek-si, Gyeonggi-do, Naver Map Hours: 10 a.m. – 11 p.m. Phone: 031-8029-0100
2. Bread and you (빵과 당신)
This bakery shop is a renowned three-story café run by master pastry chef In, certified by the Korean government as a top expert in pastry and baking. It is a must-visit destination for bread enthusiasts, offering a diverse range of treats, from pies and rice cakes to various types of bread, cakes, cookies, and more!
Due to its exceptional taste and design, many people visit for gifts or group gatherings. It’s strongly recommended to visit way earlier than around closing time, as popular bread items sell out quickly. The café provides plenty of seating as well as parking, so no need to worry, even if you have a large group of friends. One of the highlights of visiting this café is its proximity to many excellent restaurants in the area, making it an ideal spot for family outings or hosting important guests. Top restaurants nearby include Godeung-eo myeongpum-ee doeda (Premium mackerel), Lee Woo-chul’s herbal crispy rice Samgyetang (Ginseng chicken soup), and Firenze 1684 (Pasta), and many others.
Address: 1720-4, Manse-ro, Pyeongtaek-si, Gyeonggi-do, Naver Map Hours: 8 a.m. – 10 p.m. Phone: 031-651-4317
3. Goose Coffee (구스 커피)
Among the numerous cafés near Pyeongtaek Station, Goose Coffee stands out as a charming and unique one with delightful decorations and a spacious interior. More importantly, this café offers rooms, providing an opportunity for private time with friends. It is beloved by many locals seeking cozy moments with friends or quiet study time.
Everything at this café is adorable, so if you like cute things, this place is for you. Stuffed geese in every corner of the café are sure to make you smile, and the cute dessert options such as rainbow cake, cheese croffle, and goose-shaped madeleine can add more fun.
Address: Pyeongtaek Station Exit 1 / 15 Pyeongtaek 1-ro, Pyeongtaek-si, Gyeonggi-do, Naver Map Hours: 12:30 p.m. – Midnight
