Seoul’s up-and-coming brunch scene offers a variety of cafe/restaurants to choose from in many of the trendiest areas of the city. Some of the places are off the beaten path, so it’s helpful to have your NAVER or KakaoMap ready.

1. Grain – Mapo-Gu, Seoul

Instagram: @grain_seoul

Located in the quaint neighborhood of Yeonnam-dong, Grain is a very popular brunch place amongst the foreigner community. During the weekend opening hours, there’s usually a wait, but the food makes it worth it. Grain’s menu contains open-faced sandwiches, fluffy pancakes, and even a “build your own brunch” option for those who want to try a little bit of everything (basically “brunch tapas.”) The food is Nordic-inspired, and the quality is superb.

Opening hours
Thur-Mon, 9AM ~ 7PM, with the last order at 5PM. No reservation.

Location 
GRAIN 23, Donggyo-ro 46-gil, Mapo-gu, Seoul, Korea

2. The Flying Pan Blue – Yongsan-Gu, Seoul

Source: TripAdvisor

The Flying Pan Blue is one of the oldest brunch spots in Seoul. The restaurant is located just off Itaewon’s main street and is easy to overlook if you’re not paying attention. Even though the place is located in the basement, the atmosphere is anything but dreary. Expect good quality food with big portions, such as salmon, ham, eggs benedict or a farmer’s open omelette.

Opening hours
Mon-Sun, 9AM ~ 9PM.

Location
123-7 Itaewon-dong, Yongsan-gu, Seoul, Korea

3. Sunday Arvo – Yongsan-Gu, Seoul

Instagram: @sundayarvo_seoul

Although small with few seats, Sunday Arvo is worth the wait if you’re looking for an Australian-style brunch. The place is located in a quaint neighborhood of Gyeongridan, and it’s a bit of a hike to get there. There are few options on the menu, but each dish is well-crafted and of good quality that will satisfy your brunch cravings. The eggs in hell and the rucola salmon sandwich are my favourite.

Opening hours
Mon-Fri, 10Am ~ 6PM, Sat-Sun, 9AM ~ 7PM**.**

Location
52-43 Hoenamu-ro, 13-gil, Yongsan-gu, Seoul, Korea

4. Flapjack Pantry – Mapo-Gu, Seoul

Image Source: MangoPlate

Flapjack Pantry is known for serving gigantic portions of food that will leave even the heavy-eaters satisfied. The place serves all-day brunch, so you can go later in the day and still enjoy the full potential of the menu. The plates average around 15,000₩ and they come with a free drink as well. Located deep in Yeonnam-dong, it’s a bit of a walk but there are neighborhood buses from Hongdae station that can get you to the restaurant in a short amount of time.

Opening hours
Tue-Sun, 10AM to 8PM, and closed Mondays.

Website
Flapjack Pantry

Location
109 Seongmisan-ro, Yeonnam-dong, Mapo-gu, Seoul