Having lunch at Tosokchon Samgyetang, visiting Ssamzigil, and then having afternoon tea at one of the teahouses in Insadong is certainly one of my favourite Seoul itineraries.

I’ve tried a couple of teahouses around Insadong (and also Jeonju!). However, my personal favourite is this one that we found in a (rather secluded) alley.

We saw a sign for Shin Old Teahouse along the walkways and decided to check it out as the drinks looked pretty good. Plus, we were pretty tired and thirsty at this point!

While I’m not sure how old this teahouse is, I certainly have to give them props for the beautiful architecture!

It reminds me of Jeontong Dawon, where they pay attention to setting the mood for quiet relaxation and a good cup of tea away from the bustling shopping area.

Shin Old Teahouse has also paid a lot of attention to the interior design, favouring traditional architecture detailing and furniture.

Majority of the furnishings are made from stone and/or wood. It was surprisingly pretty comfortable, but we did feel that the space was a little too cramped. This feeling was exacerbated when the teahouse started getting crowded.

Shin Old Teahouse’s menu is quite typical. Their offerings are pretty similar to that of other teahouses that we have visited in Insadong. You can look forward to the usual Korean tea options such as jujube, omija, red tea, ginseng tea etc.

What I do like about Shin Old Teahouse is that they also offer cold tea options. Trust me, it’s a relief if you’re visiting in the sweltering summer. They also had some other interesting mixed herbal tea flavours, which I’ve unfortunately forgotten to note.

I also love ordering a side of yugwa while having tea at a teahouse. For the uninitiated, yugwa is a traditional Korean dessert made from glutinous rice fried and coated in honey, puffed rice and sesame seeds. It is sweet with a crispy but easy-to-chew texture. I find these super addictive and will even buy some to bring back to Singapore!

If you’re also one of those who love these rice cakes, you’ll be happy to know that Shin Old Teahouse serves them complimentary!

If it’s your first time at a traditional teahouse, you’d likely be pretty overwhelmed by all the tea options.

I personally always recommend hot omija tea for those who like a sour, fruity taste to keep them feeling alert. It’s especially great in the cold wintry months! If you’re visiting during the hot summer period, considering getting the iced version for a refreshing kick.

If you like a tea that’s milder, sweeter, and gentler on the palate, you can consider jujube tea instead. Otherwise, stick to green tea and you’ll be all fine!

Is Shin Old Teahouse worth visiting?

Seoul, especially the touristy parts of it, may seem very fast-paced. What I do love is that there are always pockets of spaces like these that encourage slowing down and enjoying the current moment.

Frankly, I didn’t think Shin Old Teahouse was particularly unique or more special than other teahouses.

However, I do have to give them credit for building this secluded and quiet space in the midst of the crowded Insadong streets for patrons to enjoy their afternoon tea. Their drinks and snacks were also reasonably priced – and actually delicious!

Sadly, I didn’t manage to find Shin Old Teahouse again after my trip there in 2022. I know it’s still around though. It’s just so tricky to locate! I would love to try and find this teahouse again for future trips. If you manage to find this teahouse, do let me know in the comments!

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DIRECTIONS

Address: 30-12, Insadong-Gil, Seoul South Korea

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• Grandmother’s Recipe

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