Spotted this coming out of exit six at Gyeongbokgung station. The Korean text says “Illy Cafe” but this cafe is also branded with the name ‘Cafe DeBibes’ (pronounced Bee-Bays in the Korean text). I tried an espresso here thinking it might be good, but there were a lot of fines in the cup and it tasted over extracted.
If you’re feeling adventurous, give DeBibes a try and let us know in the comments if the quality has improved!
UPDATE: Visited again on 7/2010 and had a nice Illy style double espresso! (Served in a cappuccino cup, but hey, can’t be picky here). If you’re getting out at Gyeongbokgung station to do some touristy stuff, I’d pop in here for a shot before heading out to the Palace. Ignore the Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf that’s right next door.
