A Vintage Dream of Cream & Crumble – My Visit to Cafe Layered, Seoul

#seoulspots Tucked along the quiet backstreets of Bukchon Hanok Village near Anguk Station, Café Layered is a charming dessert café that feels like stepping into an English countryside tearoom—only with a distinctly Korean flair. I dropped by in the late morning for a sweet break between palace visits, and the place was already buzzing with visitors drawn in by its vintage décor and indulgent pastries. The first thing that hit me was the scent of butter and berries as I entered. Stacked high on antique sideboards were layer cakes, scones, madeleines, tarts, and cream-filled delights—each one more photogenic than the last. I chose a matcha cream scone and a slice of strawberry mille crêpe with a cup of iced Earl Grey milk tea. Everything was rich, fresh, and beautifully plated. Inside, floral wallpaper, chandeliers, and wooden cabinets filled with china created a cozy, lived-in aesthetic—very Instagram-friendly but also genuinely atmospheric. There’s limited seating, and it fills up fast, but the turn-over is steady. Outdoor seats offer a view of hanok rooftops on pleasant days. Admission & Practical Info • 🕒 Hours: Daily 10:00–22:00 • 💴 Prices: ₩4,500–₩8,500 per pastry or drink • 🚇 Access: Anguk Station (Line 3), Exit 1—5–7 min walk toward Bukchon • 🛎 Ordering: Self-service; display counter with numbered items • 📷 Very photo-friendly, but be mindful of crowds during peak hours • ⏱ Suggested Time: 45 min to 1 hour (more if you’re unwinding) Why It’s Worth Visiting • 🍰 Show-stopping desserts: Scones, layer cakes, and pastries baked in-house • 🪞 Vintage charm: Instagrammable but genuinely cozy décor • 🏘 Great location: Ideal stop between Bukchon, Changdeokgung, and Insadong • ☕ Quality tea & coffee: Nicely paired with the sweets • 🎁 Good takeaway options: Scones and pound cakes box well for gifts Final Thoughts Café Layered lives up to its hype: it’s as delicious as it is beautiful. Whether you’re in it for the aesthetic or the sugar rush, it’s a perfect Seoul pit stop for a decadent afternoon treat. Just arrive a bit early if you want a seat—and don’t skip the scones.