Namusae Tea house

While all the craze these days is about modern Korean bakeries in traditional Hanoks, what I really like to do is visit old traditional tea houses serving traditional Korean Tea and desserts. After my first experience at Cha Teul, I have wanted to visit another traditional tea house in a Hanok for a relaxing afternoon

After a rush shopping spree in Insadong, we decided to head to a traditional tea house to rest and we simply headed to one of the advertised places on the multiple pull-up banners along the walking street. Following the banner’s arrows, we walked into one of the alleys and reached this quaint little teahouse

The moment we walked through the main door, we felt like we were transported into the olden era and stepping into somebody’s private house. Just like in dramas, the Hanok kept the majority of the traditional elements intact despite the restoration efforts. I loved the mix of the green bonsai and plants amidst the stone and pebble courtyard. The teahouse is split into 2 sections; the left is the tables where customers sit on the floor with the low tables while the right is the normal seating for customers who prefer to sit on chairs. The overall wooden beams and white clay walls are consistent throughout the teahouse

As we were stopping for a short while, we only ordered a bingsu and a drink although the teahouse serves many more kinds of traditional desserts like Yakgwa, persimmon sweets, rice cakes and steamed cakes. We had the Injeolmi Bingsu with red bean and it did not disappoint. We were there in early Aug and it was extremely hot so the smooth and fine ice was such a welcome for our parched throats. The red bean was creamy and sweet which was nicely paired with the Injeolmi powder and mochi cubes. The bingsu was nutty, sweet and refreshing

If it was cooler, I would have opted for one of the hot traditional teas like mulberry tea but as I wanted something refreshing for the weather, I ordered a cold Omija tea which was served in a pretty flower cup and topped with pine nuts seeds. For those not familiar with Omija tea, the tea has a light, sweet and sourish taste which is perfect for hot weather or after meals. I only wished the serving size was larger since the drink is so delicious

Overall, I like the environment of Namusae Tea House as it is tranquil and serene and it is perfect for catching up with friends since we can have a proper conversation. The service staff was also friendly and the drinks and desserts delicious

Address: 47-9 Insadong-gil, Gwanhun-dong, Jongno District, Seoul, South Korea

Opening hours: 10 am to 10 pm