Villa Lumen | Quiet Cafe Near Yongsan Station
After finishing a meal near Sinyongsan Station (a subway station in Yongsan) (Mokpo Myeongga mulhoe review), I wanted to grab a coffee at a cafe, but there wasn’t a single seat available. Every cafe I checked out was completely packed!
So I wandered around the Yongsan Station area and luckily came across Villa Lumen.
It’s located on the second floor with a cool cat illustration outside, and honestly, I didn’t even realize it was a cafe at first. Haha.
Did you spot the cat? 😸😎
🐾 I followed the cute cat signboard and found the cafe.
🐱 Stepping into a Hidden Villa Lumen
It felt hidden right from the start. If it had been my first visit, I probably would’ve wondered whether there was really a cafe there at all.
After heading up the stairs to the second floor, I found a door, and behind it was a lovely cafe.
The interior featured clean white brick walls with yellow stools adding a cheerful touch, giving the space a cozy and charming feel.
Even though I visited on a weekend evening, there were plenty of seats available, which actually made the experience even better.
☕ Diving into Chewy Butter Rice Cake
I ordered two iced Americanos and the butter rice cake that’s available here.
The butter rice cake looked wonderfully chewy even from the cross-section when I picked it up with a fork. The outside was crisp while the inside stayed soft and chewy, and the nutty flavor kept coming through as I ate.
My girlfriend pointed out that, unlike many other bakeries, this version had cinnamon powder sprinkled on the outside, which she said was the key detail. Haha.
A bite of the sweet, nutty butter rice cake followed by a sip of clean Americano paired together perfectly.
Looking into the display case, I spotted plenty of other desserts including banoffee tart, Oreo cheesecake, and pudding. It definitely gave off the vibe of a great dessert spot, and I wanted to try more items on my next visit.
✨ With a Calm and Relaxing Atmosphere
As you can see above, the white-toned interior created a peaceful mood, and jazz music played throughout the cafe.
Sitting by the window and gazing outside was also a great way to relax and unwind.
Overall, the atmosphere felt quiet and comfortable, making it easy to chat and spend time together.
💐 With Thoughtful Little Touches
There was something that immediately lifted my mood as soon as I walked in.
In one corner, I noticed small bouquets placed beside a note that said, “Please take as many as you need.” 💐
I absolutely loved that kind and thoughtful gesture from the owner. (It seemed like the owner really loves flowers.)
💡 Who Should Come Here?
1. Anyone looking for a quiet, less crowded cafe around Yongsan or Sinyongsan
2. Anyone curious about trying chewy and nutty butter rice cake instead of the usual slice of cake
3. Anyone wanting a comfortable conversation in a bright and charming space
💬 Wrapping Up With a Pleasant Visit
I stumbled upon this place by chance and ended up having a very satisfying time.
If you’re ever around Yongsan, I’d recommend stopping by at least once.
The owner told me to take the flowers, so I happily did! 🥰
The chewy texture of the butter rice cake, the warm atmosphere, and the owner’s kindness will probably stay on my mind for quite a while.
📍 Location: 2F, 18-13 Hangang-daero 7-gil, Yongsan-gu, Seoul
⏰ Hours: Mon–Fri 11:30–20:00 / Sat–Sun 12:00–21:00
💰 Price Range: Americano 4,900 KRW / Other drinks and desserts approximately 3,500–9,500 KRW
🅿️ Parking: Public transportation recommended
If you spot the white cat signboard at the entrance of the alley, it’ll be easy to find.
빌라루멘 (Villa Lumen)
2F, 18-13 Hangang-daero 7-gil, Yongsan-gu, Seoul
Verified personal purchase
Hangangno 3-ga 40-309, Yongsan-gu, Seoul
Americano ICE and 2 other items
2026.05.
