In the bustling city of Seoul, the London Bagel Museum Jasil Branch stands out as a culinary gem, attracting both locals and tourists alike. This review not only delves into the delightful offerings of this bagel haven but also explores why its location in Jamsil adds to its allure.
Reservation: A Crucial First Step
Our journey to the London Bagel Museum began with a reservation, made possible through the CatchTable app. Available from 9:30 AM on the day of the visit, the app showed about 100 people in line, and it took us approximately two and a half hours to secure a spot. We booked for 4:30 PM and were called in around 6:30 PM, though we had to wait an extra 20 minutes as the tables were full. Finally, at 7:00 PM, we entered the cafe.
A Menu Worth the Wait
Unfortunately, by the time of our entry, popular items like the Chive Pretzel Bagel and Brick Lane Sandwich were sold out. However, the remaining selection did not disappoint. The setup allows you to pick your bagels, choose from a variety of cream cheeses, and order drinks at the counter.
I opted for the Fig Bagel, Potato Cheese Bagel, Onion Bagel, Maple Pecan Cream Cheese, Basil Pesto and Cream Cheese, an Iced Americano, and a Hot Café Latte. The Onion Bagel and Basil Pesto and Cream Cheese were takeaways.
The Culinary Highlights
The Fig Bagel, with its fig jam-like spread and sweet taste, was my personal favorite, while my companion preferred the savory Potato Cheese Bagel. The Maple Pecan Cream Cheese was a star, perfectly complementing the sweetness of the Fig Bagel. The Potato Cheese Bagel featured a slice of cheddar cheese on top and a delightful potato filling inside, similar in texture to ‘Baekseolgi’, a Korean rice cake.
The Secret to Its Popularity
What makes the London Bagel Museum so appealing might be its British café-style interior and the appetizing display of various bagels and cream cheeses. In Korea, there’s a particular fondness for such enticing and diverse displays.
The next day, I tried the take-away Onion Bagel with Basil Pesto and Cream Cheese. The bagel had an equal mix of basil pesto and cream cheese, which I spread in layers. The homemade quality of the basil pesto, its perfect seasoning, and freshness added to the charm of this meal.
The Jamsil Edge: More than Just Bagels
The Jasil Branch’s location in Jamsil, particularly in the towering Lotte World Tower, adds an extra layer of excitement to the visit. This area is not just about bagels but also about the experience of exploring one of Seoul’s most vibrant areas. The tower, standing tall with 123 floors, offers the highest view in Seoul, making it a significant landmark.
During the Christmas season, the area transforms into a festive wonderland. A giant Christmas tree and elaborate decorations at Lotte World Tower, coupled with the beautiful light decorations around Seokchon Lake, create a magical ambiance. Additionally, the Lotte Cinema World Tower branch, known for its top-notch movie-viewing experience, offers luxurious seating and superb Dolby Atmos sound, making it a perfect spot for movie enthusiasts.
Why It’s a Hotspot
The combination of the London Bagel Museum’s delectable offerings and the dynamic surroundings of Jamsil makes this location a hotspot in Seoul. It’s not just about the food; it’s about the experience of being in one of Seoul’s most iconic locations, enriched with culture, entertainment, and unmatched views.
Visitors looking for a unique culinary adventure in Seoul should consider making a reservation at the London Bagel Museum Jasil Branch. It’s a journey that promises more than just great bagels; it’s an experience that encompasses the essence of Seoul’s vibrant lifestyle.
Conclusion
The London Bagel Museum Jasil Branch in Seoul, Korea, is more than just a bagel café; it’s a culinary adventure that caters to the diverse palates of its visitors. The joy of selecting from a variety of bagels and cream cheeses, coupled with its charming atmosphere, makes it a hotspot worth making a reservation for.
London Bagel Museum- Jamsil Branch
- Signature Menu Items: Chive Pretzel Bagel: KRW 8,500 / Jam Bong Butter Sandwich: KRW 8,500 / Briclane Sandwich: KRW 6,800
- Location: 1st Floor, 300 Olympic-ro, Songpa-gu, Seoul (서울 송파구 올림픽로 300 1층)
- Operating Hours: Every day from 10:30 AM to 10:00 PM.
- Official Instagram
**Menu items and prices may vary depending on the café’s circumstances.
