Bichkkuli — Restaurant in Gyeongju-si

If you're seeking an authentic slice of Korean culture, tucked away from the bustling tourist areas, this café in Gyeongju is a must-visit. Housed in a serene hanok, the traditional Korean architecture offers a peaceful retreat where you can enjoy a variety of unique beverages, like the highly recommended Korean plum drink known for aiding digestion. The menu features delightful traditional snacks and desserts, including rice cakes that come highly praised by visitors for their taste and texture. Be sure to try the colorful grilled injeolmi! Dipping the rice cakes in jocheong syrup makes them incredibly sweet and delicious. The jocheong was so good that we wanted to buy some ourselves, it was handcrafted and helps with digestion while leaving a clean aftertaste.

Particularly, the plum, omija, and lemon ginger carbonated water was refreshingly clean and delicious without the spiciness of ginger. I was so impressed, I wish there was a place like this in Seoul.

The charm of this café extends beyond its menu; the traditional floor seating and the modern convenience of ceiling air conditioning ensure comfort throughout your visit, especially during the warmer months. Whether you’re a local or a tourist, this spot is celebrated for its friendly owner, excellent service, and the joy of choosing from an array of uncommon tea options and baked goods. Don’t miss out on this gem that combines culinary excellence with cultural authenticity—perfect for those looking to immerse themselves in the real Korean...

If you want a real hanok experience this is the place to visit rather than the many replicas around the neighborhood. I spent many childhood summers here sleeping in those very rooms when the hanok belonged to my grandparents who have long passed on. I came back with my own family 40+ years later to show my daughter where her ancestral home is. It brought tears to my eyes. I’m so grateful to the tea owner who has lovingly restored the hanok rather than tearing it down or making garish renovations. Her handmade teas and rice cakes are wonderful. You’ll feel restored here and will understand a bit more about what life used to be like...

Cute and relaxing spot for some unique teas and rice cakes. The lady (owner?) was extremely kind to us foreigners. She accidentally entered the wrong amount initially when we were paying and had to charge our card again to get the total for the order correct. She went out of her way to call a friend who spoke English to explain the situation to us even though we probably would've never realized. Really appreciated the...