Looking for the best restaurants, cafes, and spots for drinks in Pyeongtaek? Here are the winners of the 2022 Best of Pyeongtaek Awards!
What is the South of Seoul Best of Pyeongtaek Poll?
South of Seoul is proud to host the 6th Annual Best of Pyeongtaek Poll to celebrate our delicious and delightful community. Founded in 2015, the South of Seoul (SOS) volunteer organization supports ex-pats living outside Seoul. The SOS volunteers manage multiple Facebook groups, the South of Seoul Facebook page, the South of Seoul blog, the SOS Public Health Program, and the South of Seoul smartphone app. You can see a review of 2022 SOS accomplishments here.
Our volunteers adore the rich life we live south of Seoul, and we feel honored to help new arrivals discover the hidden magic it holds. Pyeongtaek is a rewarding mix of city life and country life which can make it a challenge for new arrivals since access may feel complicated. However, with a little information like the ‘Best of Pyeongtaek Poll Winners’ list, Pyeongtaek-si can be a delightful place for new arrivals and long-term international residents alike.
How did the South of Seoul Best of Pyeongtaek Poll change in 2022?
For 2022 we added a few new categories and withdrew a few to respond to the changes in our community’s dining needs and culinary interests. Since SOS volunteers stay closely connected with the community, we adjust the categories each year to reflect what is happening. We assess the current needs of the international community by analyzing the information and questions shared in our various community groups. Such an agile program design means the Best of Pyeongtaek Poll is a little different each year.
Who votes in the Best of Pyeongtaek Poll?
The South of Seoul Best of Pyeongtaek poll is open to the public. We make every feasible effort to reach outside the South of Seoul community into the communities around us to gain an authentic insight into the preferences of English-speaking international residents in Pyeongtaek. SOS volunteers feel confirmation bias does not serve the greater good, so we seek opinions outside of our own sphere of influence. We want the Best of Pyeongtaek Poll to hold accurate information, whether that information matches our beliefs or not.
South of Seoul limits each business to 3 wins. We do this to keep the poll results engaging, helpful, and informative. In addition, since write-in votes are allowed, and some businesses may have an overwhelming advantage due to location and language ability, limiting the number of wins per business to 3 categories creates a better experience for all involved.
South of Seoul volunteers want to meet the community’s authentic needs. Therefore, the South of Seoul Best of Pyeongtaek Poll provides us with the insight we need by reflecting on the opinions of others. That said, nothing about this poll is scientific. It is for fun and for community development. We level the playing field by leaving the poll open for two weeks so that community members can vote once a day and deeply support the people and businesses they love. Over 320 ballots were cast in 2021, over 730 were submitted in 2022, and over 760 in 2023.
What did you learn from the Best of Pyeongtaek Poll in 2023?
When reviewing the responses to The Best of Pyeongtaek 2023 poll, we found that English-speaking residents’ comfort zone in Pyeongtaek continued to expand! We can see this trend based on the increasing votes for locations beyond Sinjang-dong and Anjeong-ri. This trend started in 2018 and continues to grow each year. We love to see the international community comfortably exploring more areas across Pyeongtaek-si.
In 2023, 33% of Best of Pyeongtaek winners are located away from US military bases. Each year more votes are cast for businesses that 1) aren’t English-dominant or 2) are located outside the Songtan/Sinjang-dong or Paengseong-eup areas. This growing trend makes our South of Seoul hearts very happy.
In 2023, we learned that South of Seoul continues to be a leader in information in Pyeongtaek. Our Pyeongtaek Food & Fun Facebook Group has been a powerhouse of information with the community that allows us all to come together to support people every single day. The hard work of each Pyeongtaek Food & Fun member has driven the group to become one of the most influential places for international residents living in Pyeongtaek to gather information.
We want to congratulate the SOS Technology Development Volunteers for continuing to build the South of Seoul app. We never imagined a volunteer-built app could compete in Pyeongtaek with giants like Naver, Kakao, Google, and Facebook.
Enough talking, time to get down to business. *drum roll please* We are proud to announce the amazing, hard-working, talented winners of The Best of Pyeongtaek 2022. Go visit them all!
PYEONGTAEK’S BEST NEIGHBORHOODS
SOSABEOL Offers the Best Experience for Date Nights and Families
Two common questions in the Pyeongtaek Food & Fun group are, “Where can we go on a date?” or “Where can I go that’s family-friendly?” Every year since the Best of Pyeongtaek Poll started, Sosabeol has been the date night choice of English-speaking residents of Pyeongtaek.
Past Awards:
- 2021 Best “Date Night” Neighborhood, Best “Family” Neighborhood, Best “Hangout” Neighborhood
- 2020 Best “Date Night” Neighborhood, Best “Family” Neighborhood, Best “Hangout” Neighborhood
- 2019 Best “Date Night” Neighborhood
- 2018 Best “Date Night” Neighborhood
- 2017 Best “Date Night” Neighborhood
PAENGSEONG-EUP (ANJEONG-RI) Offers the Best Experience for Hanging Out
The English-speaking residents of Pyeongtaek have spoken and chosen Paengseong-eup (this includes Anjeongri-ri). This is the first win for Paengseong (Anjeongri) as in the past, Sosabeol has swept all of the votes for Best “Date Night” Neighborhood, Best “Family” Neighborhood, and Best “Hangout” Neighborhood.
So, if you want to hang out with friends or find new friends, maybe consider visiting Anjeong-ri for an evening of bar hopping and evening fun.
PYEONGTAEK’S BEST RESTAURANT WINNERS IN 2022
Best International Grilled Meat: BRAAI REPUBLIC
Neighborhood: Pyeongtaek-si, Paengseong (Near Camp Humphreys Army Base)
Braai Republic offers heaping plates of South African comfort food including grilled lamb, ribs, chicken, and more. Braai Republic also has a location in Seoul. In addition to their BBQ, we also recommend their hearty and filling meat pies. Braai has been winning Best of Pyeongtaek awards since 2018!
Braai Republic’s Other Awards:
- 2018 Best World Cuisine
- 2018 Best Non-Korean BBQ
- 2019 Best World Cuisine
- 2020 Best World Cuisine
- 2021 Best International Grilled Meat
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Best Pub / Sports Bar: Sous Vide Chicken Pub
Neighborhood: Pyeongtaek-si, Jukbaek-dong (Sosabeol)
Sous Vide Chicken Pub has a unique and interesting menu. They even have a giant chicken dish that gets set on fire. It’s hard to compete with a restaurant that offers delicious and exciting food along with a nice assortment of beers, including some they brew themselves. This is their first year winning Best Pub or Sports Bar.
Sous Vide Chicken‘s Other Awards:
- 2021 Best Non-Fried Chicken
- 2022 Best Non-Fried Chicken
- 2022 Best Family Restaurant
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Best American BBQ Restaurant: JP’S BBQ
Neighborhoods: Pyeongtaek-si, Paengseong and Sinjang (Near Camp Humphreys Army Base and Osan Air Force Base)
JPs has been working hard to bring authentic USA-style smoked meat to Pyeongtaek for years, and that work has paid off! He started out working the pink carts in Songtan and grew into a catering company. In 2018, he and his wife opened their own storefront in Paengseon,g and in 2019, they opened a second location in Songtan/Sinjang-dong. Since last year they continue to sweep all non-Korean BBQ categories.
JP’s BBQ’s Other Awards:
- 2022 Best Brisket & Best BBQ Sandwich
- 2021 Best Brisket & Best BBQ Sandwich
- 2020 Best International BBQ
- 2020 Best BBQ Sandwich
- 2020 Best Brisket
- 2020 Best Banana Pudding
- 2019 Best Non-Korean BBQ Restaurant
- 2019 Best Brisket
- 2019 Best BBQ Sandwich
- 2018 Best Brisket
- 2018 Best BBQ Sandwich
- 2017 Best BBQ Sandwich
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Best Pork Galbi Restaurant: MYEONGNYUM AYCE
Neighborhood: Pyeongtaek-si, Paengseong (Near Camp Humphreys Army Base)
Myeongnyum AYCE is another popular galbi restaurant in South Korea that recently opened a new location in Paengseong. The location became a big hit with the English-speaking community in 2021 earning them their first Best of Pyeongtaek award. Not only is their galbi excellent, they are also all-you-can-eat (AYCE).
Myeongnyu AYCE Other Awards:
- 2021 Best Galbi Restaurant
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Best Korean BBQ Restaurant: ARIRANG
Neighborhood: Pyeongtaek-si, Paengseong (Near Camp Humphreys Army Base)
Arirang has been around for many years. The location offers delicious Korean BBQ and side dishes near gorgeous cafes. It makes it the perfect spot for families, couples, and companies. The location also offers plenty of parking huge tables and private rooms.
This is Arirang’s second Best of Pyeongtaek win. They greatly deserve it since they are popular with both Korean and English-speaking residents.
Arirang’s Other Awards:
- 2021 Best Korean BBQ Restaurant
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Best Fried Chicken: MR CHICKEN
Neighborhood: Pyeongtaek-si, Sinjang-dong (Near Osan Air Force Base)
Mr. Chicken has been at it for a while in the Sinjang-dong area. The location is towards the end of the Sinjang Shopping Mall off the beaten path. With delicious options including garlic soy sauce, yangnyeom or just plain fried chicken, you cannot go wrong. And top off your order with his french fry and tater tots mix! The perfect meal for hungry days. This is Mr. Chicken’s first Best of Pyeongtaek win.
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Best Family Restaurant: SOUS VIDE CHICKEN PUB
Neighborhood: Pyeongtaek-si, Jukbaek-dong (Sosabeol)
Sous Vide Chicken Pub has a unique and interesting menu. They even have a giant chicken dish that gets set on fire. It’s hard to compete with a restaurant that offers delicious and exciting food along with a nice assortment of beers, including some they brew themselves.
Sous Vide Chicken Pub’s Other Awards:
- 2021 Best Non-Fried Chicken
- 2022 Best Non-Fried Chicken
- 2022 Best Sports Bar or Pub
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Best NOT Fried Chicken: SOUS VIDE CHICKEN PUB
Neighborhood: Pyeongtaek-si, Jukbaek-dong (Sosabeol)
Not everyone enjoys fried chicken and you have great options. The best option in Pyeongtaek is Sous Vide Chicken Pub where you can have sous vide chicken dishes that melt off the bone.
Sous Vide Chicken Pub Other Awards:
- 2021 Best Non-Fried Chicken
- 2022 Best Sports Bar or Pub
- 2022 Best Family Restaurant
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Best South American Restaurant: CEVICHE 210
Neighborhood: Pyeongtaek-si, Sinjang-dong (Near Osan Air Force Base)
When you think Pyeongtaek you probably don’t think “What an amazing place for Peruvian food!”… but you should. The best of the bunch is hands down, Ceviche 210. It’s a show-stopper. It’s hard to pick a favorite dish on their menu because it’s all friggen’ delicious. Their green sauce is a legend all its own. Ceviche 210 also offers stunning off-site catering for your events. They often cater events for the Peruvian embassy in Seoul.
Ceviche 210’s Other Awards:
- 2017 Best World Cuisine
- 2018 Best Peruvian
- 2019 Best Peruvian
- 2020 Best Peruvian
- 2021 Best South American
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Best Filipino Restaurant: MABUHAY PHILIPPINE FOOD
Neighborhood: Pyeongtaek-si, Paengseong (Near Camp Humphreys Army Base)
In Pyeongtaek-si, we have been blessed with a plethora of Filipino options. This year the small but mighty Mabuhay Philippine Food restaurant took home the title of Best of Filipino Food in Pyeongtaek. Their diverse menu and excellent prices made them a favorite.
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Best Thai Restaurant: TASTE of THAILAND
Neighborhood: Pyeongtaek-si, Paengseong (Near Camp Humphreys Army Base)
Taste of Thailand moved to Pyeongtaek from Seoul and is one of the newest Thai restaurants to enter the food scene in our area. Their experience allowed them to move through 2020 with confidence that impressed the community. They continue to deliver consistent food and service. Their iced tea is an absolute MUST Try.
Taste of Thailand’s Other Awards:
- 2018 Best Thai Restaurant
- 2019 Best Thai Restaurant
- 2021 Best Thai Restaurant
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Best Fusion-Mexican or Mexican: QUE RICO
Neighborhood: Pyeongtaek-si, Paengseong (Near Camp Humphreys Army Base)
Que Rico has been a Pyeongtaek favorite for many years. Their focus on traditional Mexican food and a great atmosphere make it the perfect spot for tacos and other Mexican meals. If you love authentic Mexican food, flavors and tacos, make sure to put Que Rico on your list of top spots.
Que Rico’s Other Awards:
- 2018 Best Mexican or Tex-Mex
- 2020 Best Tacos
- 2021 Best Tacos
- 2022 Best Tacos
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Best Vietnamese: PHO VIETNAM
Neighborhood: Pyeongtaek-si, Paengseong (Near Camp Humphreys Army Base)
Vietnamese restaurants became a popular trend across Pyeongtaek in 2020 with a wide variety of new spots opening in many different neighborhoods. However, Pho Vietnam stood out. Tucked away on a side street in Anjeongri near Camp Humphreys, this small restaurant continues to offer big flavor and good prices.
Pho Vietnam’s Other Awards:
- 2021 Best Vietnamese
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Best Middle Eastern: RED ONION
Neighborhood: Pyeongtaek-si, Paengseong (Near Camp Humphreys Army Base)
Red Onion, one of the oldest Turkish kebab restaurants in the area, moved into a big, beautiful space in 2019. The new space and their improved menu certainly wowed Pyeongtaek. They won Best Middle Eastern restaurant by a landslide despite some stiff competition. We are loving this new trend in fancy middle eastern restaurants. They offer classic middle eastern dishes and delicious fusion burgers and tacos.
Red Onion’s Other Awards:
- 2018 Best Middle Eastern (under the name Nazar Kebab at the time)
- 2019 Best Middle Eastern
- 2020 Best Middle Eastern
- 2021 Best Family Restaurant
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Best Indian: MOUNTAIN RESTAURANT
Neighborhood: Pyeongtaek-si (Near AK Plaza)
Mountain Restaurants provides a great deal of support to the international community in Pyeongtaek. In 2022 the community responded with an outpouring of support for Mountain Restaurant, giving them their first Best of Pyeongtaek win. The Mountain offers excellent curries with rich flavors and hearty servings.
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Best Japanese Restaurant: OMOYA
Neighborhood: Pyeongtaek-si, Sinjang-dong (Near Osan Air Force Base)
Omoya provides hearty Japanese meals. Their curries, noodles, and small eats become comfort food quickly. The lovely staff and great location also add to their popularity.
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Best Shabu-Shabu: PUMPKIN DUCK SHABU SHABU
Neighborhood: Pyeongtaek-si, Jangan-dong
Shabu-shabu is a popular dish in Pyeongtaek; nobody does it better than the pumpkin duck shabu-shabu restaurant. Delicious side dishes, a scrumptious main course, and fresh ingredients make this spot an endless favorite. Make sure to go hungry because it’s enough food to make you feel full for days.
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Best Wings: THE WOLFHOUND
Neighborhood: Pyeongtaek-si, Paengseong (Near Camp Humphreys Army Base)
The Wolfhound Irish Pubs are loved from Seoul to Busan, so when they opened one in Pyeongtaek, it came on the scene fast. This large but cozy feeling bar serves up cold beer and, by the votes this year, the best wings in town. Also, be sure to stop in for the Irish breakfast during brunch time.
The Wolfhound’s Other Awards:
- 2020 Best Irish Bar
- 2019 Best Irish Bar
- 2019 Best Craft Beer
- 2018 Best Irish Bar
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Best Sandwiches: GOOD NEIGHBOR
Neighborhood: Pyeongtaek-si, Paengseong (Near Camp Humphreys Army Base)
Good Neighbor offers healthy sandwiches and salads based on seasonal ingredients. A great spot for lunch and for those who enjoy a healthy western-style meal.
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Best Burger: COCO SALSA
Neighborhood: Pyeongtaek-si, Paengseong (Near Camp Humphreys Army Base)
Against all odds (their original location exists in a parking lot in a basement of Brownstone), Coco Salsa won over Pyeongtaek’s heart for Best Burgers for the fourth year in a row. Their In-n-Out-inspired burgers are both delicious and affordable. Moreover, they offer the perfect combination of taste, affordability, and convenience with two locations in Paengseong, kiosk ordering, and fast service.
Coco Salsa’s Other Awards:
- 2019 Best Burger
- 2020 Best Burger
- 2021 Best Burger
- 2021 Best Loaded Fries
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Best Tacos: QUE RICO
Neighborhood: Pyeongtaek-si, Paengseong (Near Camp Humphreys Army Base)
Que Rico brings the taste and heart of Mexico to Pyeongtaek. The handmade tortillas, slow-cooked meats, and careful attention to tradition win hearts again and again. This is not their first Best of Pyeongtaek win but it is an awesome achievement as one of the smaller Mexican restaurants in the area.
Que Rico’s Other Awards:
- 2018 Best Mexican/ Tex-Mex
- 2020 Best Tacos
- 2021 Best Tacos
- 2022 Best Fusion-Mexican or Mexican Restaurant
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Best US Style Sushi: SAM’S SUSHI
Neighborhood: Pyeongtaek-si, Paengseong (Near Camp Humphreys Army Base)
Sam’s Sushi kept moving forward and providing delicious delivery and pick-up straight through the pandemic. They worked hard to stay committed to quality western-style sushi. As a result, their comforting flavors remained reliable through the difficulties of the pandemic. And their sushi rolls are still winning the votes of Pyeongtaek.
Sam’s Sushi’s Other Awards:
- 2019 Best Japanese Restaurant
- 2019 Best Western Sushi
- 2020 Best Japanese Restaurant
- 2020 Best Western Sushi
- 2021 Best Japanese Restaurant
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Best Japanese Ramen: A-RAMEN (Formerly AORI RAMEN)
Neighborhood: Pyeongtaek-si, Pyeongtaek-dong (Near AK Plaza)
Each year competition to win the Best Ramen in Pyeongtaek increases. Despite that, A-Ramen continues to rise to the top of the ramen conversation. Their small and intimate space is perfect for eating alone or on a date. Although A-Ramen split from the Aori Ramen franchise, they continue to deliver top-notch, crave-able ramen.
A-Ramen’s Other Awards:
- Best Ramen 2019
- Best Ramen 2020
- Best Ramen 2021
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Best Fish & Chips: FISH AND CHIPS
Neighborhood: Pyeongtaek-si, Paengseong (Near Camp Humphreys Army Base)
Despite being closed for many months, the Fish & Chips shop came back bigger and better than ever! They won Best Fish & Chips with authority.
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Best Pulled Pork Sandwich & Best Brisket: JP’S BBQ
Neighborhoods: Pyeongtaek-si, Paengseong and Sinjang (Near Camp Humphreys Army Base and Osan Air Force Base)
JPs has been working hard to bring authentic USA-style smoked meat to Pyeongtaek for years, and that work has paid off! He started out working the pink carts in Songtan and grew into a catering company. In 2018 he and his wife opened their own storefront in Paengseong, and in 2019, they opened a second location in Songtan/Sinjang-dong. Last year they won for Best BBQ Sandwich and this year they swept all non-Korean BBQ categories.
JP’s BBQ’s Other Awards:
- 2021 Best Brisket & Best BBQ Sandwich
- 2020 Best International BBQ
- 2020 Best BBQ Sandwich
- 2020 Best Brisket
- 2020 Best Banana Pudding
- 2019 Best Non-Korean BBQ Restaurant
- 2019 Best Brisket
- 2019 Best BBQ Sandwich
- 2018 Best Brisket
- 2018 Best BBQ Sandwich
- 2017 Best BBQ Sandwich
Best Pizza: ELDORA RESTAURANT
Neighborhood: Pyeongtaek-si, Paengseong (Near Camp Humphreys Army Base)
This small, chef-owned, and Spanish-inspired restaurant offers the Best Pizza in Pyeongtaek according to the local vote. Their homemade crust, unique fresh ingredients, and attention to detail have many people hooked on their elegant pizzas. This is Eldora’s first Best of Pyeongtaek win.
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Best “Western’ Breakfast or Brunch: LE PAIN
Neighborhood: Pyeongtaek-si, Paengseong (Near Camp Humphreys Army Base)
Le Pain is a popular bakery and brunch location near Brownstone apartments in Paengseong. The small bakery-cafe offers up popular brunch favorites with a changing seasonal menu.
Le Pain’s Other Awards:
- 2021 Best Brunch
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Best Korean Brunch: HOCUS POCUS ROASTERS
Neighborhood: Pyeongtaek-si, Ichung
This is Hocus Pocus Roasters’ first win. Their Korean brunch menu often includes a rotation of gorgeous pasta, salads, and sandwiches served in a stunning countryside setting.
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PYEONGTAEK’s BEST PLACES For DRINKS
Best Shots and Cocktails Spot: 1987 ROOFTOP LOUNGE
Neighborhood: Pyeongtaek-si, Jukbaek-dong (Sosabeol)
This is 1987 Rooftop Lounge’s first Best of Pyeongtaek win. Located in Sosabeol (The best Pyeongtaek neighborhood for date nights), this is the perfect spot for a date or a girls’ night.
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Best Craft Beer Spot: COSMIC CAT
Neighborhood: Pyeongtaek-si, West Pyeongtaek (Near Camp Humphreys Army Base)
Cosmic Cat not only offers up Pyeongtaek’s Best Western Donuts, but they also offer the best spot to pick up some Korean Craft Beer. Cosmic Cat works with small Korean breweries to make sure Pyeontaek beer lovers have access to fun new brews each month.
Cosmic Cat’s Other Awards:
- 2020 Best Donut
- 2021 Best Western Donut
- 2022 Best Western Donut
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Best Korean Traditional Alcohol: OMG FARMERS MARKET
Neighborhood: Tong Bok
This is OMG Farmers Market’s first win in the Best of Pyeongtaek poll. This organic salad shop in Tong Bok market also offers the best-tasting menu for Korean traditional alcohol in Pyeongtaek. The perfect spot to try new drinks and eat a healthy dinner.
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PYEONGTAEK’s BEST CAFES, BAKERIES & DESSERTS
Best Epic Cafe: MAIN STREET CAFE
Neighborhood: Pyeongtaek-si, West Pyeongtaek (Near Pyeongtaek Port)
In 2021 a number of large cafes opened up across Pyeongaek which required the creation of the “Epic Cafe” category and Main Street Cafe is the poster child for amazing. A whole universe exists inside this giant cafe near the Pyeongtaek Port.
Main Street Cafe’s Other Awards:
- 2021 Best Epic Cafe
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Best Elegant Cafe: ONE FOREST
Neighborhood: Pyeongtaek-si, Doil-dong
This is One Forest’s first win for Best of Pyeongtaek. The beautiful indoor and outdoor spaces provide an elegant backdrop for well-made desserts and lovely drinks.
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Best Hip/Cool Kid Cafe: HONEYFLEX
Neighborhood: Pyeongtaek-si, Jukbaek-dong (Sosabeol)
This is Honeyflex’s first Best of Pyeongtaek win. The cafe not only serves honey-themed drinks, but it also looks like a honeycomb. The friendly owners and relaxing atmosphere make it a must-visit cafe.
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Best Tiny Bakery: CAFE HANGOUT
Neighborhood: Pyeongtaek-si, Paengseong (Near Camp Humphreys Army Base)
Sweet treats and holiday treats bring the feeling of home to ex-pat lives. Cafe Hangout has mastered the art of western sweets and treats that delight the English-speaking residents of Pyeongtaek.
Cafe Hangout also did well in other cafe categories. However, each business can win only three categories, and Cafe Hangout’s Tiny Bakery is exceptional, so we chose to feature them for their amazing baked goods.
Cafe Hangout’s Other Awards:
- 2021 Best Neighborhood Coffee Shop
- 2021 Best Western Cookies
- 2021 Best Pumpkin Spice Latte
- 2022 Best Cookies
- 2022 Best Pumpkin Spice Latte
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Best Cozy Cafe: EVAN’S TEA HOUSE
Neighborhood: Pyeongtaek-si, Songdam-ri
Proper English tea with tasty baked goods like scones and crumpets make this a delightful and unique cafe. This is Evan’s Tea House’s first Best of Pyeongtaek win. Grab your girlfriends, kids, or church group, and head to this cafe for a cozy cup of tea and a wonderfully relaxing experience. Plenty of free parking.
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Best Dog Cafe: RIVERUN CAFE AND DOOLEY’S PETS
Neighborhood: Pyeongtaek-si, Deongmok-ri
This is Riverun Cafe and Dooley’s Pets’ first Best of Pyeongtaek win. The brunch and bakery cafe offers both pet-friendly and people-only buildings with two outdoor off-leash areas. One for large dogs and one for small dogs. Perfect for families with kids and pets since everyone has plenty of safe places to play.
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Best Professional Bakery: TUFF ENUFF
Neighborhood: Pyeongtaek-si, West Pyeongtaek (Near Pyeongtaek Port)
Tuff Enuff is a diamond hiding in the rough. Once you visit Tuff Enuff you will be counting the days until you can go back again. From its impressive bakery to its rustic interior, this cafe knows how to create a feeling of warmth and comfort.
Tuff Enuff’s Other Awards:
- 2021 Best Professional Bakery
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Best Western Cookies & Pumpkin Spice Latte: CAFE HANGOUT
Neighborhood: Pyeongtaek-si, Paengseong (Near Camp Humphreys Army Base)
Sweet treats and holiday treats bring the feeling of home to ex-pat lives. Cafe Hangout has mastered the art of western sweets and treats that delight the English-speaking residents of Pyeongtaek.
Cafe Hangout’s Other Awards:
- 2021 Best Neighborhood Coffee Shop
- 2021 Best Western Cookies
- 2021 Best Pumpkin Spice Latte
- 2022 Best Tiny Bakery
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Best Western Donuts: COSMIC CAT DONUTS
Neighborhood: Pyeongtaek-si, Sinjang-dong (Near Osan Air Force Base)
Western-style donuts are on the rise in South Korea. Cosmic Cat arrived late in the game offering the area’s first small-batch donuts. Cosmic Cat quickly gained popularity to the point that they sold out in hours every day they were open for weeks. That passion also translated into them beating out western donut favorites like Dunkin Donuts and Krispy Kreme. These are must-try donuts that you should not miss, even if you have to show up early and enjoy each other in line.
Cosmic Cat’s Other Awards:
- 2020 Best Donuts
- 2021 Best Western Donuts
- 2022 Best Craft Beer Spot
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Best Bagels: YOUNG’S BAGELS
Neighborhood: Pyeongtaek-si, Jukbaek-dong (Sosabeol)
We added the Best Bagels category in 2022 as more bakeries began offering bagels as an option. In 2022 the small hand-crafted bagels from Young’s Bagels quickly became a huge success with the shop selling out each morning for months. It was no surprise when they won Best Bagels in Pyeongtaek. This is Young’s Bagel’s first win.
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Best Non-Bakery Desserts: BEE AND HONEY CAFE
Neighborhood: Pyeongtaek-si, Sinwang-ri
This is a new category for the Best of Pyeongtaek poll. Not everyone can enjoy baked goods and we wanted to highlight other wonderful cafes focused on non-baked desserts. Bee & Honey Cafe offers exceptional desserts made with local honey.
Bee and Honey Cafe’s Other Awards:
- 2020 Best Unique Cafe Drink
- 2019 Best Unique Cafe Drink
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PYEONGTAEK’S MOST USED APPS
Most Used Delivery App: SHUTTLE
This is a new category for the Best of Pyeongtaek Poll. Shuttle easily swept the delivery category this year. Offering a delivery app in English allows ex-pats to avoid the language hurdles when trying to order delivery. They also regularly support community events and work to help support the ex-pat community in Korea. This is Shuttle’s first Best of Pyeongtaek win.
You can learn more about delivery services in Pyeongtaek by reading the following South of Seoul blog post:
Most Used Navigation App: NAVER MAPS
Naver Maps dominated the Navigation Maps category in the South of Seoul Best of Pyeongtaek Poll. It’s clearly the winning Navigation App for finding locations in Pyeongtaek and South Korea.
If you would like to learn more about how so use Naver Maps checkout the following South of Seoul blog articles:
Most Used App for Information in Pyeongtaek: SOUTH OF SEOUL
South of Seoul volunteers have polled the community on what apps help them find things around Pyeongtaek for many years now. The South of Seoul app has always done well but we have never expected it to win. It’s a volunteer-created app that needs may updates, however, this year we actually topped the list! Never in our wildest dreams did we think we could poll higher than Google or Naver for local content for English-speaking expats but we finally did it! We hope to have a new, more reliable version of the app out in 2023.
Previous Best of Pyeongtaek Winners
You can view the past winners of Best of Pyeongtaek here:
- Best of Pyeongtaek 2017
- Best of Pyeongtaek 2018
- Best of Pyeongtaek 2019
- Best of Pyeongtaek 2020
- Best of Pyeongtaek 2021
Founded in 2015, the South of Seoul team consists of volunteers on three continents working together to support English-speaking people traveling or living in South Korea. South of Seoul volunteers work with organizations and individuals across South Korea to improve equitable access to information across South Korea. Much of South of Seoul’s information focuses on Pyeongtaek, Gyeonggi-do, South Korea.
Blogs published under the authorship of “South of Seoul” include blogs compiled by multiple volunteers to improve access to standardized information unrelated to individualized personal experiences.
