Anthracite Coffee Roasters 앤트러사이트 커피

One of the most heavily reviewed cafe chains in Korea, Anthracite is a name that comes familiar to many. With 5 outlets currently operating across Jeju and Seoul, Anthracite is one of the cafes that we really fell in love with, even returning numerous times to buy their coffee beans (you also get a free Americano of the roast which you buy). It has also been said that Anthracite was one of the cafes in Korea which sparked the minimalist-industrial decor style which is common in many Korean cafes.

The Itaewon outlet is perhaps one of Anthracite's bigger outlets, with two full floors of seating and outdoor seats at the patio in front of the counter. This outlet also features their roastery on the first floor while pastries are baked fresh from the kitchen on the third floor.

The Itaewon outlet also provides a spectacular view of Hannam-Dong, especially at sunset.

While the Hapjeong outlet carries the same industrial vibe as the one in Itaewon, its ornate decor somehow has a completely different feel from its Itaewon counterpart. With a counter made from a repurposed conveyor belt and the dim lighting, the Hapjeong outlet was definitely more industrial and less minimalistic.

One of the most prominent roasts at Anthracite is without a doubt the "Butter Fat Trio" which comes off as strong and flavourful but yet remains smooth, its other roasts such as Pablo Neruda and William Blake (both famous poets) were equally delectable and intriguing.

With its delicious coffee and numerous locations, Anthracite was perhaps the cafe that we visited the most during our time in Korea. In fact, we loved it so much that we even brought their coffee beans back home to Singapore!

Itaewon Outlet

Address: 240 Itaewon-ro, Hannam-dong, Yongsan-gu, Seoul, South Korea

Opening hours: 9am - 11pm (weekdays), 10am - 11pm (weekends)

Nearest Station: Hangangjin Station (exit 3) or Itaewon Station (exit 3)

Hapjeong Outlet

Address: 357-6, Hapjeong-dong, Mapo-gu, Seoul, South Korea

Opening Hours: 11am - 12am

Nearest Station: Hapjeong Station (exit 7) or Sangsu Station (exit 4)