Haruki Murakami Cafes to Visit in Seoul
In case you're new here, my love of Haruki Murakami is no secret. My first tattoo was actually inspired by his novel Dance Dance Dance!
So imagine my delight when I found not one, but three cafes inspired by him here in Seoul all within walking distance of each other. Let's take a look at them~
1. Peter Cat
The first stop on our Murakami cafe tour is one that I found completely by chance. I was walking down a back street I had never noticed before when I passed a cafe called Peter Cat. Being a huge Murakami fan, I immediately thought of Murakami's jazz bar in Tokyo with the same name. I didn't think it could be related though, until I saw the sign under the cafe name reading "Hard-boiled coffee and books." The Hard Boiled Wonderland reference was enough to convince me to go in. Lo and behold, it was a Murakami book cafe!
The owners are just as passionate as Murakami is about music, and they are always playing the best selection of classical music or jazz. It's a wonderful place to study or read, and I'm sure Murakami would approve of this spot.
Address: Mapo-gu Seogyo-dong 9-16
Hours: 12pm-11pm
2. Cafe Comma
This enormous book cafe is breath taking to any book lover. Though they recently moved to a new location, the towering bookshelves are a lovely as ever. This cafe is run by the main publishing house for Murakami's work here in Korea along with many other books. Browse the shelves for cool editions of all your favorite books! Beware, this cafe is quite expensive, with most drinks starting at 5,000won.
Address: Mapo-gu Donggyo-dong 154-1
Hours: 11:00am-24:00am
3. Soomdo
Unfortunately, this cafe is now closed but it was my absolute favorite on the list! The book cafe is a quiet study spot for the local students from Sogang University. They offered an extensive menu all inspired by famous authors. The Murakami sandwich was a cucumber sandwich that Murakami often mentions his characters eating. With a light spread of mayo and mustard, this simple sandwich is actually delicious and satisfying!
I wish this place was still open, but in its place is another cafe that at least kept the bookshelves up :)
Address: Mapo-gu Sinsu-dong 31-1
Hours: 8am - 11pm