KMK: Cafe aA The Design Museum

Often times in the realm of arts and crafts the latter is overshadowed by the overwhelming baggage that accompanies the former. Just think of the hundreds of questions that cling to the word art: what is it; how do you recognize it; what does it mean; what does it say; is it good; is it relevant? So much attention is paid to those three little letters joined together that people just forget that it’s art and crafts.

Well, I’m happy to report, that this isn’t the case at Café aA, a swanky coffee spot doubling as a museum in the streets of Hongdae. Unlike the traditional cafes in museums Café aA takes the novel approach of actually utilizing the pieces to serve their function while simultaneously being admired for their beauty and artistry. Whether it’s Tom Dixon’s Mirror Balls, tile from the 1850’s, industrial lamps from the 1830’s these and many other fantastic pieces, coming from as far back as the 1800’s, can be found around the space being used by customers.

Café aA also satisfies its customers with a menu of tasty treats and delicious drinks. Whether you simply want to sit back and relax with latte or bite into a hearty sandwich you can be sure to find what you need. The prices are reasonable especially when you consider the ambiance. I never thought I would find a spot that tops Coffeesmith on garousu-gil, but Café aA thwarts the competition with panache, serving up place that feeds the soul as well as the body. It also doesn’t hurt that its wifi friendly to boot.

Café aA

Around A
408-11 Seo-kyo Dong
Mapo Gu, Seoul
3143-7312
Noon to Midnight Mon to Sun