Korean cuisine is well-known for its rich flavors and distinctive dishes. Among its many delectable desserts, one in particular stands out: yakgwa(약과). In this blog article, we will dig into the delicious world of yakgwa and discover three must-visit yakgwa cafes in Korea.
Unveiling Yakgwa: A Traditional Korean Dessert
- Yakgwa is a popular Korean delicacy prepared with jocheong, sesame oil, and wheat flour. It is a sort of hangwa(한과), or traditional Korean sweets, that is usually consumed on special occasions or during holidays.
- Modern Toppings Fusion: Investigate how modern variations like as whipped cream, kaymak, and vanilla ice cream have been included to compliment and improve the classic yakgwa flavors.
- Combining yakgwa with modern toppings such as whipped cream, kaymak, and even vanilla ice cream not only provides a unique flavor blend but also a physical sensation. This inventive twist has become a gourmet fad among YouTubers, helping to fuel a new generation of mukbang content. This fusion dessert exemplifies the dynamism and adaptability of Korean cuisine by juxtaposing old and contemporary.
Korea’s Best Yakgwa Cafes
Golden Piece (골든피스)
Golden Piece is a premium yakgwa brand that reinterprets traditional Korean sweets. It is located in Yongsan-gu, Seoul, and is known for its beautifully packaged products that make for perfect gifts.
- Signature Menu Assorted Yakgwa Set 56000 KRW, Chapssal Yakgwa Set 55000 KRW, Kaesong Jooak Set 23000 KRW
- Location 25 Hannam-daero 27-gil, Yongsan-gu, Seoul (서울 용산구 한남대로27길 25 )
- Hours Daily, 12:00 – 18:00
- Official Site
Jangin,The(장인,더)
Jangin Yakgwa was originally known for selling traditional yakgwa and has been famous for that. However, currently, they have expanded to open cafes in Jeju Island and Pocheon, Gyeonggi-do, where they sell various types of yakgwa.
- Signature Menu Genuine Yakgwa 1500 KRW, Crumbled Yakgwa 1 Pack 6,000 KRW, Americano 5,000 KRW, Café Latte 5,200 KRW
- Location Gyeonggi Branch : 1090-4 Gwangneungsumokwon-ro, Soheul-eup, Pocheon-si, Gyeonggi-do(경기 포천시 소흘읍 광릉수목원로 1090-4) / Jeju Branch : 140 Gujwa Haean-ro, Gujwa-eup, Jeju-si, Jeju Special Self-Governing Province (제주특별자치도 제주시 구좌읍 구좌해안로 140)
- Hours Gyeonggi Branch : Daily, 10:00 – 19:00 / Jeju Branch : 10:00 – 18:00, closed on Sundays
- Official Site
Geobugi Hangwa (거북이 한과)
Geobugi Hangwa is located in Jeju Island and is known for its unique blend of yakgwa and maejakgwa, a traditional Korean cookie, offering a distinctive texture. It is famously moist with jocheong, a thick syrup made from rice. Uniquely, it is presented in a pastry form.
- Signature Menu Citrus Oranda 10000 KRW, Kaesong Assorted Yakgwa (11 pieces) 20000 KRW, Yakgwa Maru 6300 KRW, Seed Oranda 10000 KRW
- Location 1F, 9, Jungang-ro 48beon-gil, Seogwipo-si, Jeju Special Self-Governing Province (제주특별자치도 서귀포시 중앙로48번길 9 1층)
- Hours 11:00 – 20:00, closed on Sundays
- Official Site
Conclusion
Korean desserts are becoming increasingly popular around the world, and yakgwa is a tribute to the country’s culinary prowess. We’ve looked at the rich history and flavors of yakgwa, highlighted notable yakgwa cafes in Seoul, and highlighted fascinating varieties that combine this traditional delicacy with modern sweets like cookies, financiers, and scones in this blog article. You can embark on an exciting culinary adventure through the heart of Korea’s dessert scene by embracing the broad range of flavors and textures that yakgwa offers.
