From Sanglok
Dessert stomachs are real – we all need something sweet to put a lovely end to a meal. And if you’re lucky enough to drop by Hwangridan Street, head to From Sanglok, a minimalist cafe that will win you over with a cup of aromatic espresso and sweet crumble cream puffs.
Hanok exterior architecture with a modern twist
Image credit: @from.sanglok
From Sanglok is located along Hwangridan Street, which is known for preserving traditional hanok houses and architecture.
Image adapted from: @shining._.ra, @arrrriel_
But there’s a modern twist to this cafe. Away from the main building of From Sanglok is a tiny greenhouse-like seating area with floor-to-ceiling glass windows that natural sunlight to stream in while you enjoy your afternoon cuppa.
And given its photogenic appearance, it’s unsurprising that the annex happens to be one of the main photo spots at From Sanglok.
Image adapted from: 달이, 숙 보이는 뚝딱이
Besides the annex, From Sanglok has many other seating options within its small but mighty compound. The cafe has a trendy and minimalistic interior that incorporates traditional Korean elements such as tiled roofs and wooden handmade furniture.
Image adapted from: 동그랑땡, 동그랑땡
While you’re at From Sanglok, keep an eye out for the cute cats roam around the cafe.
7 crumble cream puff flavours
Image credit: @luv._.daily3
From Sanglok specialises in crumble cream puffs, also known as soboro choux in South Korea. The cafe offers these cream puffs in 7 flavours: Custard, Chocolate, Matcha, Oreo, Earl Grey, Injeolmi, and Blueberry.
Image adapted from: @kaja_jam, @don.ny_blog
The flavour is the Matcha Soboro Choux (KRW4,500, ~USD3.38), which has a generous matcha cream filling that is not too sweet, and it is a must-try for all matcha fans.
Image adapted from: 노아리
Another flavour not to miss is the Injeolmi Soboro Choux (KRW4,500, ~USD3.38), which is filled with sweet and nutty injeolmi cream and topped with injeolmi rice cakes. We recommend getting a shot of espresso to go alone with your soboro choux as the bitterness of the coffee balances out the sweetness of injeolmi, a type of Korean glutinous rice cake that’s dusted with soybean powder.
4 types of espresso
Image adapted from: @m_joo__, @sop.____kang
From Sanglok offers quality espresso and has up to 4 different types of espresso to choose from. Get the original Espresso (KRW4,000, ~USD3.01) or Espresso Con Panna (KRW4,500, ~USD3.38), which is espresso topped with thick whipped cream, if you’re a traditionalist.
For visitors who are trying espresso for the first time, get the Espresso Deep Chocolat (KRW4,500, ~USD3.38), which has milk, whipped cream, chocolate powder to temper the bitterness of the coffee.
Image credit: @oh_a_sis_
Adventurous coffee drinkers should try the Espresso Romano (KRW4,500, ~USD3.38), an interesting combination of espresso and lemon juice. Surprisingly, lemon juice enhances the aroma and alleviates the bitterness in the espresso.
Image credit: @ooo.bxn
Otherwise, consider ordering From Sanglok’s signature drink Melting Almond (KRW6,000, ~USD4.52), which is a savoury roasted almond latte.
Getting to From Sanglok
Image credit: @precious._joo
There are no subways within Gyeongju City, so public transportation such buses and taxis are the only way to get around. The cafe is located within a 16-minute walk from Gyeongju Express Bus Terminal.
How to get there (by bus):
- Board an express bus to Gyeongju Express Bus Terminal.
- Cross the road and take Bus No. 61, then alight after 2 stops.
- Walk straight for 120m, then turn left and walk for 100m.
- Slide left into the alley and walk 320m, then turn right and you’ll arrive at From Sanglok.
From Sanglok is a no-kids zone.
Address: 17-5 Poseok-ro 1068beon-gil, Gyeongju-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do
Opening hours: 11am-9pm, Daily
Contact: 054-748-3366 | Instagram
Cover image adapted from: @shining._.ra, @kaja_jam, 동그랑땡
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