Blue Bottle Korea: From New York Memories to My Seoul Routine
My first encounter with Blue Bottle Coffee wasn’t in Korea—it was in New York City.
I still remember the calm ambiance, the minimalistic design, the iconic blue bottle logo, and how carefully each cup of hand-drip coffee was brewed. It wasn’t just about the coffee—it was an experience. I promised myself: “If Blue Bottle ever opens in Korea, I’ll be one of the first in line.”
That dream came true when Blue Bottle opened its first Seoul location in Seongsu. I was beyond excited. I waited in line for nearly an hour, but it was absolutely worth it.
Now, Blue Bottle has become part of my life here in Seoul. It’s no longer the “new hot place,” but it still delivers when I’m in the mood for a truly well-crafted cup of coffee. My personal favorites? A classic latte and the coffee soft serve—a hidden gem!
What Makes Blue Bottle Special?
- Thoughtfully brewed coffee, one cup at a time
- Warm and minimalist interiors
- Friendly, professional baristas
- High-quality beans and beautifully designed merchandise
It’s more than just a coffee shop—it’s a space where time slows down and coffee becomes meaningful.
My Go-To Menu Picks
- Latte – Smooth, rich, and well-balanced. The milk-to-espresso ratio is just perfect.
- Coffee Soft Serve – Creamy, bold, and not too sweet. If you love coffee, you must try it.
- New Orleans Iced Coffee – A sweet, milky cold brew with a unique chicory twist.
Blue Bottle Locations in Seoul
Each Blue Bottle store in Seoul has its own personality and charm. Here are my favorites:
1. Seongsu Flagship
- Korea’s very first Blue Bottle location
- Spacious, industrial vibes
- The most diverse range of merchandise
- Still the most iconic location
2. Samcheong Café
- Tucked into a peaceful hanok (traditional Korean house) neighborhood
- Warm, wood-accented interior
- Perfect after a walk near Gyeongbokgung Palace or Bukchon Hanok Village
3. Apgujeong Café
- Sophisticated and polished atmosphere
- Quiet and cozy
- Great for solo reading or working
4. Pangyo Café
- Bright and spacious
- Surrounded by tech companies
- Less crowded than Seoul locations
5. Yeoksam Café
- In the heart of Gangnam
- A favorite spot for office workers
- Ample seating for working or relaxing alone
The Story Behind Blue Bottle Coffee
Blue Bottle Coffee was founded in the early 2000s by James Freeman, a freelance musician-turned-coffee-enthusiast in Oakland, California. Frustrated by the stale, over-roasted beans commonly sold in stores, Freeman set out with a simple mission: to roast small batches of coffee and deliver them within 48 hours of roasting for maximum freshness.
He named the company after one of Europe’s first coffee houses, The Blue Bottle, which opened in Vienna in the late 1600s. His tiny coffee cart quickly gained a cult following for its dedication to freshness, quality, and simplicity.
Over time, Blue Bottle became a pioneer of the third wave coffee movement, emphasizing transparency, craftsmanship, and single-origin beans. What started as a small operation in a garage evolved into an international brand with cafes in the U.S., Japan, Korea, and beyond—without losing its artisanal roots.
Final Thoughts
Blue Bottle in Korea may not be the “trendy newcomer” anymore, but for those of us who truly appreciate quality coffee, it remains a go-to destination. For me, it’s also sentimental—a little bridge between my New York memories and my current life in Seoul.
If you’re planning to visit Korea or looking for cafes with character and quality, I highly recommend checking out one (or more) of these Blue Bottle locations. And don’t forget to try the soft serve—you’ll thank me later!