Welcome to Gangneung, the city where the aroma of freshly roasted coffee beans mingles with the salty sea breeze. Nestled along the pristine Anmok Beach, Gangneung Coffee Street (Anmok Kape Geori) has transformed from a quiet strip of vending machines into a national hub for coffee lovers. In 2026, this iconic destination is more vibrant than ever, offering a unique cafe experience for every type of traveler. Whether you’re a serious coffee connoisseur, a pastry enthusiast, or simply seeking a breathtaking view of the East Sea, Gangneung’s legendary street has a seat waiting for you. Get ready to explore our curated list of the top 10 cafes you absolutely must visit this year.
1. Bossa Nova
A true icon of Gangneung Coffee Street, Bossa Nova is famous for its stunning architecture and unrivaled rooftop views. This multi-story cafe is a pilgrimage site for many visitors, offering panoramic vistas of Anmok Beach from every floor. Its floor-to-ceiling windows and spacious rooftop terrace are its biggest draws, creating the perfect backdrop for photos. While known for the view, their coffee is consistently high-quality, featuring a well-balanced house blend that pleases most palates. The interior is modern and comfortable, designed to maximize the ocean scenery for every guest.
Practical Info: Located centrally on the main strip. Expect crowds, especially on weekends. Drinks are slightly premium, priced around ₩7,000-₩9,500.
Insider Tip: For the best experience, head straight to the rooftop an hour before sunset on a weekday. You’ll get the golden hour light without the peak weekend rush, securing the best seats in the house.
2. Terarosa Coffee (Imdang Branch)
While not directly on the beach strip, no Gangneung coffee tour is complete without visiting Terarosa. This is where it all began. As one of Korea’s pioneering specialty coffee roasters, Terarosa put Gangneung on the global coffee map. The Imdang branch, housed in a converted factory, offers a rustic, industrial-chic atmosphere. This is a destination for true coffee purists. They offer an extensive menu of single-origin pour-overs, allowing you to taste the distinct notes of beans from around the world. Their bakery is equally famous, particularly their rich, decadent tiramisu and fresh focaccia bread.
Practical Info: A short drive from Anmok Beach. Prices reflect their specialty status. Be prepared for a wait, as it’s a very popular spot.
Insider Tip: Ask the barista for a recommendation based on your flavor preferences (e.g., fruity, nutty, or chocolatey). They are experts and can guide you to a truly memorable cup.
3. Santorini Coffee (산토리니)
Transport yourself to the Greek isles at Santorini Coffee, a charming cafe known for its distinctive blue and white decor. It was one of the first cafes to establish the area’s reputation and remains a beloved classic. The main attraction is the ‘Stairway to Heaven’ photo zone, an outdoor staircase that appears to lead directly into the blue sky and sea, making it an Instagram hotspot. The vibe is relaxed and perfect for a leisurely afternoon. They serve a variety of classic coffee drinks and refreshing ades, making it a great choice for a warm day. The outdoor terrace is particularly popular for soaking in the sun and sea breeze.
Practical Info: Easily recognizable by its blue-domed roof. Can get very busy around the photo zone.
Insider Tip: To avoid a long queue for the photo zone, visit on a weekday morning. You’ll get your shot quickly and enjoy a more peaceful atmosphere inside.
4. Café L.Bean
For those seeking a more artisanal and intimate experience, Café L.Bean stands out. This roastery cafe focuses deeply on the craft of coffee, from sourcing to roasting to brewing. The interior is cozy and filled with the incredible aroma of freshly roasted beans. Their signature offering is the hand-drip coffee, prepared meticulously by skilled baristas who are happy to chat about the process. L.Bean offers a quieter, more thoughtful alternative to the larger, bustling cafes on the street. It’s a place to slow down, appreciate the craft, and enjoy a truly exceptional cup of coffee while still enjoying a lovely view of the sea.
Practical Info: Smaller in size, so seating can be limited. Their coffee beans are also available for purchase.
Insider Tip: Try their Dutch coffee (cold brew). It’s incredibly smooth and flavorful, perfect for taking away to enjoy on a walk along the beach.
5. Gangneung Coffee Torta
If your love for dessert rivals your love for coffee, this is your paradise. Gangneung Coffee Torta specializes in one thing and does it to perfection: the coffee-infused torta. This soft, fluffy castella-style cake is filled with a rich, creamy espresso mascarpone filling that is simply divine. It is the must-try signature dessert of the entire street. The cafe itself is bright and modern, with ample seating and, of course, a great view of the water. They serve excellent coffee to pair with their cakes, including a creamy Einspänner that perfectly complements the torta’s sweetness. It’s an ideal spot for an afternoon treat.
Practical Info: Located in a prime spot on the beach road. You can buy the tortas in gift boxes to take home.
Insider Tip: The original coffee torta is the classic, but don’t miss their seasonal variations, like strawberry in the spring or fig in the fall, for a unique twist.
6. KIKRUS (키크러스)
Famous for its unique brioche donuts and charcoal-infused bread, KIKRUS is a bakery cafe that draws huge crowds. While the coffee is solid, people flock here for the baked goods. Their signature dish is the Yeontan-ppang (charcoal brioche), a fluffy black bread filled with cheese that is as delicious as it is photogenic. The cafe occupies a large building with multiple floors, ensuring that almost every table has a view of the sand and waves. The modern, open-plan design makes it feel spacious even when it’s packed, which it often is. It’s the perfect place to refuel with carbs after a long walk on the beach.
Practical Info: Be prepared to queue, especially for the popular bread which can sell out by the afternoon.
Insider Tip: Go with a friend and order a mix of their sweet and savory pastries to share. The contrast between the rich coffee donut and the savory charcoal cheese bread is fantastic.
7. Ordinaire
For those with a minimalist aesthetic, Ordinaire offers a serene and stylish escape. This cafe embraces a clean, almost gallery-like design with concrete walls, simple wooden furniture, and strategically placed greenery. The uncluttered space directs all attention to two things: the high-quality coffee and the stunning ocean view framed by its massive windows. Ordinaire is a haven for lovers of brutalist architecture and third-wave coffee. They specialize in single-origin filter coffees and have a reputation for their perfectly pulled espresso shots. It’s an oasis of calm and sophistication amidst the more boisterous cafes on the street.
Practical Info: Located on an upper floor, providing a slightly elevated and quieter view of the beach.
Insider Tip: This is a fantastic place to get some work done or read a book. The calm atmosphere and reliable Wi-Fi make it a productive yet beautiful workspace.
8. Haru On The Beach
As the name suggests, this cafe aims to give you a perfect ‘day on the beach’ experience. Haru On The Beach has a warm, inviting interior with lots of natural wood and cozy seating nooks. It feels less like a commercial cafe and more like a comfortable beach house. Their specialty is their wide range of creative, non-coffee beverages, including vibrant fruit ades and creamy lattes, making it a great option for groups with varied tastes. Of course, their coffee is also excellent. The second-floor seating offers a beautiful, unobstructed view of the coastline, making it a wonderful spot to relax and watch the world go by.
Practical Info: A great family-friendly option due to its welcoming atmosphere and diverse menu.
Insider Tip: Try their signature ‘Cloud Smoothie’. It’s a beautiful, layered blue and white drink that looks just like the sky over the ocean and is incredibly refreshing.
9. Anmok Harbor Coffee
This spot offers a slightly different perspective, located closer to the fishing harbor at the end of the street. Anmok Harbor Coffee has a more rustic, nautical theme that pays homage to the area’s history. From its windows, you can see not only the sea but also the fishing boats coming and going. It’s the best place to experience a more authentic, local vibe. The coffee is straightforward and robust, a no-frills approach that locals appreciate. It’s a great choice for an early morning coffee, as you can watch the harbor come to life. The prices are often a little more reasonable than the main-strip cafes.
Practical Info: Situated at the southern end of the coffee street, near the harbor entrance.
Insider Tip: Visit in the morning to grab a coffee and then take a short walk around the harbor to see the fishermen bringing in their daily catch.
10. A.Nook (에이눅)
A.Nook is a newer, trendy addition that has quickly become a favorite for its aesthetic interior and delicious brunch menu. The cafe features a bright, airy design with light colors, rattan furniture, and plenty of plants, creating a refreshing ‘vacation’ atmosphere. It’s one of the few cafes on the street offering a full brunch menu, including items like avocado toast, croffles, and brunch plates. This makes it the perfect place to start your day in Gangneung. Their coffee menu is creative, featuring specialty lattes and beautifully presented drinks that are as delightful to look at as they are to drink. The view from their second-floor window seats is exceptional.
Practical Info: Brunch is served until mid-afternoon. It’s very popular, so expect a wait during peak lunch hours.
Insider Tip: Order their signature A.Nook Croffle set, which comes with a crispy croissant-waffle, ice cream, and fruit. It pairs perfectly with an iced latte for the ultimate beachside brunch.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What is the best time to visit Gangneung Coffee Street?The best time is during the spring or autumn on a weekday. You’ll experience pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and a more relaxed atmosphere. Summer weekends are the busiest, while winter offers a stark, beautiful view of the sea if you don’t mind the cold.
2. How do I get to Gangneung Coffee Street from Seoul?
The easiest way is by taking the KTX high-speed train from Seoul Station to Gangneung Station (approx. 2 hours). From Gangneung Station, you can take a local bus (like the 202 or 302) or a short taxi ride (about 15-20 minutes) directly to Anmok Beach.
3. Are the cafes on Gangneung Coffee Street expensive?
Prices are generally higher than a standard cafe in Seoul, largely due to the prime oceanfront location. Expect to pay between ₩6,000 and ₩9,000 for a coffee or specialty drink. The experience and the view are what you’re paying for!
4. Is it just about coffee?
Not at all! While coffee is the star, most cafes offer extensive menus with teas, juices, smoothies, and ades. Many are also famous for their bakeries, offering everything from cakes and pastries to savory breads and brunch items.
Conclusion
Gangneung Coffee Street is more than just a collection of cafes; it’s a cultural destination that captures the unique spirit of Korea’s east coast. Each cafe offers a different lens through which to view the majestic East Sea, whether it’s from a bustling rooftop, a quiet corner, or a stylish brunch spot. As you wander down the Anmok Beach promenade in 2026, let the scent of coffee and the sound of the waves guide you. We hope this list helps you find your perfect spot, but the real joy is in the exploration. Cheers to your coffee adventure in Gangneung!
Tags: #Gangneung #Koreatravel #coffeeculture #EastSea #AnmokBeach #Koreancafes #roadtripKorea #Gangwon-do #specialtycoffee #whattodoinGangneung
