Changsin-dong Cafe, Tertre is a must-visit spot for anyone looking to enjoy a breathtaking view of Seoul. Whether you visit during the day, at sunset, or at night, this cafe offers an unforgettable panoramic view of the city.
Located near Naksan Park, it’s an ideal place to stop by for a date or after a family meal at a nearby restaurant. However, due to its art installation-style gallery design and structural features, it is a no-kids zone for safety reasons.
On my first visit last fall, I was captivated by the view but found the seating uncomfortable, the space surprisingly warm, and the coffee and dessert just average, perhaps more reflective of the price paid for the view.
Overview, Changsin-dong Cafe, Tertre
Located about a 15-minute walk from Changsin Station Exit 1, the journey is not for the faint-hearted due to the elevation. If you’re using public transport, taking the Jongno 03 village bus from Dongmyo or Dongdaemun and getting off at Naksan Samgeori bus stop is the most convenient way, followed by a short 2-minute walk. For those driving, valet parking nearby is recommended.
Changsin-dong Cafe, Tertre Opening Hours:
- Daily: 11:30 – 22:30 (Last order at 22:00)
As you walk down towards the cafe, you’ll notice its glass façade that offers a clear view of the interior and the stunning Seoul skyline beyond. It’s the perfect spot for anyone looking to unwind with a view, and it’s ideal for a romantic sunset proposal.
more info: Official Instagram
Interior Space of Changsin-dong Cafe, Tertre
Tertre is spread across four floors, including a rooftop. Pre-ordering is essential, and a minimum order of one drink per person is required, as indicated right at the entrance.
In the winter, the glass doors are likely kept shut, but on pleasant days, the terrace fencing is left open with all windows wide, creating an indoor-outdoor vibe on the first floor.
If possible, I recommend sitting on the first floor, where it’s cooler and the seating is relatively more comfortable. Most seats are built into platforms, with the first floor offering two-tiered platforms, while the upper floors have single-tier platforms, which aren’t ideal for prolonged seating.
On the day I visited, the first floor was a hotspot with everyone vying for a seat, so I went straight to the counter to order my drinks and desserts. The employees must never tire of the view. I wondered if they’d ever grow weary of such a spectacular sight, given the rarity of a space that captures Seoul’s skyline this beautifully.
Even the interior stairwell plays with light and shadow to create an artistic atmosphere, which attracted people photographing for shopping malls and more.
Randomly placed platforms add to the gallery-like feel of the space, and the person who claims a comfy spot first gets to keep it.
The top floor, which I eventually chose, was bathed in autumn sunlight, making it quite warm. Opening the back windows provided some much-needed ventilation, though the front remained a fixed, transparent expanse.
Menu at Changsin-dong Cafe, Tertre
The menu features a wide range of options including coffee, lattes, ades, cocktails, teas, desserts, beers, and light snacks.
Signature desserts are displayed on a tablet, making it easier to choose, though each option looks so good that it can be hard to decide.
The basic Americano costs around 7,000 KRW, made with a rich, nutty coffee bean.
Dining Experience at Changsin-dong Cafe, Tertre
- 2 Americanos: 7,000 KRW each
- 3 Flat Whites: 7,500 KRW each
- TRUSS Dessert: 9,000 KRW
- Brownie Pot: 8,000 KRW
Tertre’s Food and Drink
Once your dessert and drinks are ready, you’ll need to carry them up several flights of stairs yourself. To make things easier, it’s best to place your order on the first floor, wait for it to be prepared, and then take it upstairs.
The desserts and drinks are visually stunning, like little works of art. The signature dessert, with its pastel letters spelling “TERTRE” and mint-colored exterior with a lemon-flavored cream filling, is a delightful little treat—just sweet enough to complement a cup of coffee, without being overly distinctive in flavor.
The flat white pairs wonderfully with the dessert, and the robust Americano complements the rich brownie. The brownie topped with vanilla ice cream was especially delicious, making for a perfect pairing with the coffee.
If I were to visit again, I’d likely go for the brownie and coffee combo. Alternatively, visiting in the evening for a beer and some light snacks while enjoying the view could be equally satisfying.
Conclusion
Changsin-dong Cafe, Tertre is a beautiful space to fully enjoy the view of Seoul. The entire cafe seems designed to capture the best vistas, making it visually and aesthetically pleasing. While the desserts and drinks may be more about the presentation than taste, they’re good enough to enhance the overall experience. This place is perfect for a date or even a solo visit if you’re looking for an open sky and some peace. Just be prepared for the “view tax” and choose your desserts wisely—good looks are sometimes enough to make the experience delightful, but don’t expect too much from the taste.
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