Deep Blue Lake — Restaurant in Seoul

Over the course of the last five years, dozens of cafes have entered the re-developed Mangwon market area but few have gained a following quite like Deep Blue Lake. Established in 2016 by Lee Chul-won (이철원), it’s distinctive blue brick facade and reputation for high-end speciality coffee continues to draw more and more people from nearby Hongdae, Hapjeong and throughout the city. Beyond a symbol of gentrification, the cafe has an impact that is setting the standard for the current generation of roasters and baristas.

Deep Blue Lake have a constantly changing selection of single origin coffee beans alongside their two “house blends”. They pride themselves on their light “tea-like” roasting style, achieved using USA-manufactured roaster brand Loring. Beginning in 2014 with Coffee Graffiti their Smart Roaster series ( S15 Falcon and S35 Kestrel) are now also used by Coffee Montage, Four B and Coffee Themselves.

You can try one of each of their coffees with their “Coffee Lover” menu, including one espresso, one latte and complimentary sparkling water. At the time of visiting the selection included:

1. Colombia Huila La Piragua Pink Bourbon Washed (C.o.E 2021 No. 7)
2. Kenya Karimikui AB Washed (SL28, SL34)
3. Blue Blending (Ethiopia Natural 60%, Honduras 20%, Ethiopia Washed 20%)
4. Deep Blending (India 60%, Colombia 20%, Ethiopia Natural 20%)

Roasting Machine: Loring (USA) S15 Falcon Smart Roaster (15kg)

Behind The Counter: Custom Branded 3-Group Kees Van der Westen Spirit espresso machine and MAZZER Kold S, Mahlkönig...

What at first glance appears to be a bottom feeder's paradise, this reverse iceberg inspired revelation-by-revelation patron space allows its little fishies to spelunk unchartered corners level-to-level. Following the predictable trend of pastel dehydrated flowers in lineated window outlooks, this little piece of carmalized cream a top the foundational set of plump naturally sweetened pumpkin pie provides a pleasure packed jazz hand waving in the symbolic heart. ...

Deep Blue Lake — their name truly reflects the service they provide. Their coffee brought me warmth and delight, in a breeze-like place that felt just like home. That doesn’t mean they’re only quiet; they’re also unique. From the entrance, their funkiness is clear, with quirky illustrations combining coffee and the Chinese zodiac. I had a wonderful time there and will definitely...