Looking for the best local coffee roasters in Pyeongtaek, South Korea? We have tried coffee across the area to find the best spots for freshly roasted coffee. Let’s go! About Coffee Roasters A coffee roasting business focuses on the process of transforming green coffee beans into roasted coffee, ready for brewing. This type of business can range from small, local operations to larger, industrial-scale roasters. Pyeongtaek’s Best Coffee Roasters The world of coffee roasting in Pyeongtaek is rich and somewhat diverse, a blend of art and science that reflects the community’s tastes. Whether you’re savoring a cup in a cozy local café or brewing your own from freshly bought beans, you’re part of a community that cherishes quality, craftsmanship, and connection. What Makes the Best Coffee Roaster Excellent coffee roasters source beans from around the world to create unique or premium coffee experiences. This might involve direct trade with coffee farmers or purchasing through suppliers. It just depends on the roaster and most will share how they source their beans as part of their marketing. Once a great roaster sources their beans, they will use specialized and reliable equipment to roast beans. This involves careful control of temperature and roasting time to develop the desired flavor characteristics. Different roasters across Pyeongtaek use different types of equipment such as: A fantastic roaster practices strict quality control processes. This ensures that their beans have a consistent taste and reliability. Such roasters continuously taste and adjust their roasting profiles to maintain quality and consistency. This process, known as cupping, is crucial for ensuring the end product meets the desired standards. Quality packaging and distribution are a priority. The best coffee roasters know that their job doesn’t stop with making great beans, such beans also need protecting and used in a timely manner. They make sure that their beans stay fresh through quality packing and storage. Types of Roasters in Pyeongtaek Pyeongtaek has a variety of roasters with different business models. However, the ones that we prefer operate both as a cafe and retail store. This means you can enjoy their coffee in their beautiful branded cafes or you can grab a bag of beans to take home. Ethics of Coffee Roasting Each great coffee roaster brings their own ideas, ethics, and tastes to the coffee roasting process. In fact, many coffee drinkers consider a coffee roaster’s ethics, impact, and sustainability a critical part of their product. If a coffee roaster’s values don’t align with their consumer, they may struggle to find an audience. Therefore, great coffee roasters clearly communicate their mission statements and provide additional information regarding such things as: The Perks of Pyeongtaek Roasters Now, let’s talk about why getting your beans from a local Pyeongtaek roaster instead of just grabbing some from your neighborhood coffee chain: Coffee Roasters in Pyeongtaek to Try Here are 5 coffee roasters we recommend starting with in Pyeongtaek. Some are small and others are local brands with a few locations in Pyeongtaek or other areas of Korea: Join Pyeongtaek Food & Fun You are also welcome to join our Pyeongtaek Food & Fun Facebook Group. The South of Seoul moderated community of active and friendly Pyeongtaek international residents makes moving to Pyeongtaek easier. With so many different voices and opinions, it is always refreshing to see everyone’s adventures in our local community. Additionally, the shared posts introduce our community to new places and old places that can feel new all over again. Leave Reviews in the South of Seoul App We would love to hear your feedback for each of these spots on the South of Seoul app!! If you have been to the top 5 pubs or sports bars in Pyeongtaek, let folks know the specifics of what you love and what didn’t quite meet your needs. South of SeoulFounded 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. www.southofseoul.net

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Looking for the best donuts in Pyeongtaek? Here are the best spots to help you get your fill of donuts whether you are a fan of the American style or classic Korean style (kkwabaegi 꽈배기). Where Is Pyeongtaek? Feel free to skip this section if you live in Pyeongtaek or know about the area.  First of all, these locations for the best donuts exist in Pyeongtaek-si, Gyeonggi-do, South Korea.  Check out the following map to see the border of Pyeongtaek-si. Pyeongtaek-si is located in the southern portion of the Gyeonggi-do province. This large administrative district includes many different communities and cities including two US military installations: Camp Humphreys and Osan Air Base. In this blog post, South of Seoul provides addresses and phone numbers for the best donuts in Pyeongtaek recommendations. We recommend using this information in either Naver Maps or Kakao Maps or Kakao Maps for the best results. We never encourage the use of either Google or WAZE within South Korea. The Difference Between Korean and American-Style Donuts Before we give you the details on the best donuts in Pyeongtaeks, let’s discuss the differences between Korean and American-style donuts. Not all donuts are created the same. In fact, donuts often look very different across cultures. Typically when Americans think of donuts, they often think of lightly fried/baked dough (usually made from wheat flour) with a variety of flavors and even toppings or glazes. However, Korean donuts or kkwabaegi (꽈배기) are twisted donuts that may be made from wheat or rice flour with a slightly sweet taste. Even the texture of many Korean donuts and American donuts vary. While Korean donuts are often more chewy while American donuts are often more fluffy or cakey in texture. Ingredients and Flavors Kkwabaegi often may incorporate additional flavors like cinnamon, vanilla, or black sesame. Also, they tend to have a light, slightly sweet taste. American donuts come in a wide variety of flavors, such as glazed, chocolate, jelly-filled, cream-filled, and many more. Depending upon the ingredients, they can range from sweet to savory. Shape and Appearance Kkwabaegi is often twisted or braided into a long shape and often resembles a twisted rope or braid. They are usually small in size and have a crunchy exterior texture due to frying. American donuts are typically round with a hole in the center However, there are also filled donuts without holes. In addition, they can vary in size, from small bite-sized “donut holes” to larger, traditional donuts. Cooking Method Kkwabaegi is deep-fried until golden brown and develops a crispy exterior. American donuts are also deep-fried or sometimes baked. Toppings and Glazes Kkwabaegi is often coated with a light syrup glaze or rolled in sugar immediately after frying. American donuts often have a wide range of glazes and toppings. Some of these include sugar glaze, chocolate glaze, sprinkles, powdered sugar, and various flavored fillings. American Style Donuts in Pyeongtaek If you are looking for American-style donuts in Pyeongtaek, you have options. Whether you want handmade donuts or you are just looking for flavors like what you get back in the States, these locations will have you coming back for more. Cosmic Cat Cosmic Cat Donuts won the Best Western Donuts (as voted in the Best of Pyeongtaek poll) for the past three years. Fresh baked daily, the owners keep adding new flavors. In addition, they make custom donut birthday cakes which are perfect for the donut lovers out there. The Cottage Cafe The following locations receive rave reviews in our Pyeongtaek Food & Fun for having fabulous donuts. Bibbia Cafe Cafe Sweet Roro Bebeco Gloer Godeok Korean Style Donuts (Kkwabaegi 꽈배기) in Pyeongtaek Looking for some of the amazing twisted Korean-style donuts in Pyeongtaek? These locations make the best kkwabaegi 꽈배기 in the area. Notable Spots On the Outskirts of Pyeongtaek While these donuts are not in the Pyeongtaek area, fans rave about them in our Pyeongtaek Food & Fun group. Therefore, they deserve mention in this blog. KimchiRednecks Grabbing Donuts in Pyeongtaek We have not made it to visit all of the best donuts in Pyeongtaek. However, we have made it to two of the local favorites, Cosmic Cat Donuts and The Cottage. Feel free to check out our YouTube channel for our adventures in and around Korea. We hope to make it to some of the local kkwabaegi shops for a video soon! Always Confirm Details Before Visiting Businesses change often in South Korea so you need to do your due diligence before visiting. This blog represents a moment in time and times change. We recommend calling or messaging a business before visiting to confirm they are in business. We also recommend double-checking the business’s 1) days off, 2) vacation days, 3) break times, and 4) open times. If you are visiting to try a specific item confirm that such items remain on the menu. You can use apps like Papago or AI apps like ChatGPT to help with the language barrier. Join The Pyeongtaek Food & Fun Facebook Group You are also welcome to join our Pyeongtaek Food & Fun Facebook Group. The South of Seoul moderated community of active and friendly Pyeongtaek international residents makes moving to Pyeongtaek easier. With so many different voices and opinions, it is always refreshing to see everyone’s adventures in our local community. In addition, all of the posts shared introduce our community to new places and old places that can feel new all over again. While this list of best donuts in Pyeongtaek is not comprehensive of the entire area, we may have missed your favorite spot. Therefore, make sure to share with the community and share your favorite spots with us! Volunteer With South Of Seoul Interested in working with a fun team of talented volunteers? The South of Seoul volunteer team is always looking for other like-minded folks to research information, compile blogs, and edit content. KimchiRednecksAbout Melissa Edwards-Whittington & Chuck Whittington (KimchiRednecks) Chuck and Melissa—also known as the KimchiRednecks—have been living in Korea since 2017 and documenting their life abroad since launching their YouTube channel in 2018. Originally created to share their adventures with friends and family back in the U.S., KimchiRednecks has since grown into a vibrant and dynamic platform that reflects their love for Korean culture, food, travel, and everyday life. From foodie explorations and recipe experiments to gaming, tech, and car projects (especially the BRZ), their content offers a fun and honest window into expat life. Chuck Whittington is a graduate of Francis Marion University with a degree in Information Systems Management. With over two decades of experience in IT, Chuck combines his technical expertise with a long-standing fascination with Korea—having visited many times before moving permanently. He’s the tech-savvy side of KimchiRednecks and brings a love for innovation, gaming, and cars to the channel. Melissa Edwards-Whittington holds a degree in Bible with a minor in Elementary Education from Mid-Atlantic Christian University. She has worn many hats over the years—working in customer service, marketing, and now also serving as a volunteer Co-Editor and Social Media Marketing Manager for United on the RoK Magazine. Her writing and digital work focus on building community and supporting military-connected and expatriate populations in Korea. Melissa also volunteers with South of Seoul, where she helps manage online social media groups, supports local language exchanges, and creates original content to assist newcomers and long-term residents alike. Together, Chuck and Melissa share their lives with their three beloved Shih Tzu daughters—Minion, Sookie (forever in their hearts), and Mayhem—who are frequently featured in their videos and social media posts. Whether they’re sipping coffee at a neighborhood café, exploring hidden corners of Korea, or experimenting with homemade whiskey and brandy on their second channel, Shining with KimchiRednecks, Chuck and Melissa are passionate about sharing the real and ever-evolving journey of life abroad. One of their greatest joys is cooking, and they frequently document their culinary adventures—especially their experiences learning to prepare Korean dishes and other global cuisines—on their YouTube channel, inviting others to celebrate food, culture, and connection alongside them. Follow Chuck, Melissa & the KimchiRednecks Adventures: YouTube: @kimchirednecks YouTube: @shiningwithkimchirednecks Instagram: @kimchirednecks Facebook: KimchiRednecks United on the RoK Magazine: www.unitedontherokmag.com

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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: 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: Support This Business 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: Support This Business: 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: Support This Business 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: Support This Business 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: Support This Business 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. Support This Business 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: Support This Business 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: Support This Business 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: Support This Business 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. Support This Business 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: Support This Business 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: Support This Business 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: Support This Business 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: Support This Business Best...

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Are you looking for the best desserts near Osan Air Base? Here are ten spots that international residents often vote for in the Pyeongtaek Food & Fun poll each year. Where is Osan Air Base? Osan Air Base is a US Air Force Base located in Singjang-dong, Pyeongtaek-si, Gyeonggi-do, South Korea. The area may also be called Songtan by both international residents and many Koreans who work with international residents. However, when people reference Songtan they may also be referencing Seojeong-dong, Jisan-dong, or parts of Godeok as well. Clarifying locations with exact addresses becomes important when sharing information for locations in this area. What Dessert Options Are Available? There are many dessert options to choose from near Osan Air Base. Businesses offer choices from cakes, donuts, and cookies to homemade macarons. Whether you are looking for a cozy cafe to enjoy a date night dessert or a quick stop to pick up donuts to share at the office, there are many great places ready to indulge your sweet tooth. Korean desserts often feature flavors that might not be as sweet as their American counterparts. Additionally, Korean desserts may come in flavors that are not as common in the states such as sweet potato or injeolmi. It is always fun to try some new flavors and check out the old favorites that might have a new spin on them. Consequently, you might find new options to order on future visits. However you choose to satisfy your need for sweets, you will find sweet treats to delight your senses. Best Dessert Spots Near Osan Air Base Keep in mind that these spots are the ones most commonly recommended by international residents who participate in the Pyeongtaek Food & Fun group. Therefore, this is not a scientifically sound survey based on empirical evidence. Above all, try each of these dessert spots near Osan Air Base and let us know your favorites. KimchiRednecks Reviews Two Local Favorites Learn about desserts near Osan Air Force Base on our YouTube channel! Final Notes From KimchiRednecks In conclusion, we have a serious sweet tooth and obsession with desserts (at least Melissa and Christy do!) As a result, the only downside to all of these dessert options is that we must exercise more to treat our habits! Therefore, if you are in the Osan Air Base area, we highly recommend checking out some of these fabulous options. If you are looking for a sneak peek prior to your visit, you can check out some of our videos on the KimchiRednecks YouTube channel. (There are many reviews in our Restaurant Reviews Playlist!) Finally, let us know about the dessert locations you find and love in the Pyeongtaek Food & Fun group. We enjoy learning about new places and seeing everyone’s fabulous food adventures! Location Clarification for this List While some of the dessert recommendations provided exist within walking distance of Osan Air Base Main Gate, other locations may require a car. In this blog post, South of Seoul provides its address and phone numbers. However, use this information in either Naver Maps or Kakao Maps for the best results. Such apps help you figure out how far each restaurant might be from you. How to Source Additional Information about Locations If you have questions about things like business hours, you can use the free foreigner support app/phone number 1330. Join the Pyeongtaek Food & Fun Facebook Group You are also welcome to join our Pyeongtaek Food & Fun Facebook Group. The South of Seoul moderated community of active and friendly Pyeongtaek international residents makes moving to Pyeongtaek easier. Volunteer with South of Seoul Interested in working with a fun team of talented volunteers? The South of Seoul volunteer team is always looking for other like-minded folks to research information, compile blogs, and edit content. KimchiRednecksAbout Melissa Edwards-Whittington & Chuck Whittington (KimchiRednecks) Chuck and Melissa—also known as the KimchiRednecks—have been living in Korea since 2017 and documenting their life abroad since launching their YouTube channel in 2018. Originally created to share their adventures with friends and family back in the U.S., KimchiRednecks has since grown into a vibrant and dynamic platform that reflects their love for Korean culture, food, travel, and everyday life. From foodie explorations and recipe experiments to gaming, tech, and car projects (especially the BRZ), their content offers a fun and honest window into expat life. Chuck Whittington is a graduate of Francis Marion University with a degree in Information Systems Management. With over two decades of experience in IT, Chuck combines his technical expertise with a long-standing fascination with Korea—having visited many times before moving permanently. He’s the tech-savvy side of KimchiRednecks and brings a love for innovation, gaming, and cars to the channel. Melissa Edwards-Whittington holds a degree in Bible with a minor in Elementary Education from Mid-Atlantic Christian University. She has worn many hats over the years—working in customer service, marketing, and now also serving as a volunteer Co-Editor and Social Media Marketing Manager for United on the RoK Magazine. Her writing and digital work focus on building community and supporting military-connected and expatriate populations in Korea. Melissa also volunteers with South of Seoul, where she helps manage online social media groups, supports local language exchanges, and creates original content to assist newcomers and long-term residents alike. Together, Chuck and Melissa share their lives with their three beloved Shih Tzu daughters—Minion, Sookie (forever in their hearts), and Mayhem—who are frequently featured in their videos and social media posts. Whether they’re sipping coffee at a neighborhood café, exploring hidden corners of Korea, or experimenting with homemade whiskey and brandy on their second channel, Shining with KimchiRednecks, Chuck and Melissa are passionate about sharing the real and ever-evolving journey of life abroad. One of their greatest joys is cooking, and they frequently document their culinary adventures—especially their experiences learning to prepare Korean dishes and other global cuisines—on their YouTube channel, inviting others to celebrate food, culture, and connection alongside them. Follow Chuck, Melissa & the KimchiRednecks Adventures: YouTube: @kimchirednecks YouTube: @shiningwithkimchirednecks Instagram: @kimchirednecks Facebook: KimchiRednecks United on the RoK Magazine: www.unitedontherokmag.com

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Cafes with Non-dairy Options Pyeongtaek that you should try. There are locations in neighborhoods across Pyeongtaek.

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Would like like to find great cafes for mom's near Pyeongtaek, Cheonan, or Asan? LeaDan has some options for you!

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What is an epic cafe? This is a list of spacious cafes where you will not feel the walls closing in during the rainy season. These are places you can rest AND stretch your legs while escaping your four walls. If you have families, you are going to love these places. Most of these cafes also offer baked goods so you will be caffeinated and fed. Since most are in the countryside, they also offer relatively easy parking. Where are these cafes located? The massive cafes tend to be out in the countryside in Pyeongtaek or the surrounding areas. We’ve tried to choose epic cafes that are 1 hour or less from wherever you might be in the greater Pyeongtaek area. Such parameters mean that you will likely need a car to get to all of these cafes. Many of these cafes exist in countryside locations which means they may also offer substantial outdoor space for frolicking. Are these cafes pet-friendly? Some of the best, big cafes around Pyeongtaek are pet friendly and some are not. If you have questions about pet friendliness you can contact 1330 to see if they can help get you an answer. Always remember, if the cafe is pet friendly it doesn’t mean that they are mess friendly. Keep your dog’s paws clean and make sure to pick up after them. Also, remember to keep your dogs on a leash. 10 of the Best Epic Cafes in or Near Pyeongtaek Once you have visited all of these very cool spots, be sure to share your experiences in your favorite communities and leave reviews in the South of Seoul app. South of SeoulFounded 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. www.southofseoul.net

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Looking for a spot to grab coffee and dessert in Sosabeol? If you’re looking for indoor activities for your toddlers when the AQI is poor (most of them have air purifiers), on rainy days, or when you just need more breathing space. What is Sosabeol? Sosabeol is a neighborhood in Pyeongtaek where many folks love to hang out with friends or go on dates. The neighborhood has a great balance of restaurants, cafes, parks, and things to do for all ages. Many of Pyeongtaek’s younger crowd head to Sosabeol for date nights and afternoons with friends. What is the cafe scene like in Sosabeol? Cute cafes pepper the Sosabeol neighborhood. You can wander through the streets and discover numerous, lovely cafes where you can take a rest while grabbing a coffee and dessert. Some cafes focus on being Instagram ready, others focus on creating a unique product, and yet others balance both aesthetic and quality. For this blog post, I’ve chosen 10 cafes that prioritize flavor as well as environment since I’m a fan of both. Where do these recommendations come from? I’ve looked at cafes added to the South of Seoul app, the voting results in the Best of Pyeongtaek, cafes often recommended in the Pyeongtaek Food & Fun group, and my personal preferences. Cross-referencing my findings revealed that these 10 Sosabeol cafes stood out from the rest. I hope you enjoy trying them all! 10 Sosabeol Cafes and Bakeries to Visit Join the Pyeongtaek Food & Fun Facebook Group You are also welcome to join our Pyeongtaek Food & Fun Facebook Group. The South of Seoul moderated community of active and friendly Pyeongtaek international residents makes moving to Pyeongtaek easier. Volunteer with South of Seoul Interested in working with a fun team of talented volunteers? The South of Seoul volunteer team is always looking for other like-minded folks to research information, compile blogs, and edit content. Lanae Rivers-Woods, MAITLanae Rivers-Woods moved to Korea in 2011 where she lives in the countryside with her family, friends, and puppies. She holds a BSSW (Bachelor’s of Science in Social Work), a MAIT (Master’s of Arts in International Teaching), and registered by the Pyeongtaek Korean Times with the Korean government as a Cultural Expert. Ms. Rivers-Woods used her 15 years experience as a social architect, UX/UI designer, and technology consultant to found South of Seoul in 2015. South of Seoul is a volunteer organization that leverages technological tools to mitigate cultural dissonance in multi-cultural communities. Through South of Seoul, Ms. Rivers-Woods works with independent volunteers, non-profit organizations, businesses, local & federal government, universities, and US military organizations to develop solutions to support English speaking international residents in rural South Korea. Additionally, Ms. Rivers-Woods founded the South of Seoul smart phone app available for Google Play and iPhone. The app provides information a resources for those living and traveling in South Korea. When she isn’t in South of Seoul development meetings or working her day job, Ms. Rivers-Woods loves to be outside at skate parks, the beach, or playing in the mountains. www.southofseoul.net

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(Updated: 2025) Do you love animals but don’t have space or time for them at home? Don’t worry, you can still get some quality time with furry or feathered friends. Here are some bird, cat, dog, and other animal cafes near Pyeongtaek. About Animal Cafes in South Korea Animal cafés in Korea (애견카페 / 동물카페 / 애완동물카페) offer visitors a chance to interact with animals in a social setting, usually while enjoying non-alcoholic drinks. These cafés are typically themed around one type of animal, though some locations feature multiple types. You can find everything from dog and cat cafés to more unique spots with raccoons, sheep, reptiles, or birds. However, Pyeongtaek mainly offers dog, cat, and bird cafés. Not All Animal Cafés Are the Same The experiences at animal cafés can vary widely depending on the animals, owners, and design of the space: Some animal cafés are run by pet lovers who treat their animals like family, while others may operate more like businesses with high animal turnover. It’s important to observe how the animals are treated and supported. A Changing Culture In recent years, animal welfare concerns have influenced the way animal cafés are viewed and regulated in Korea. Many cafés are working harder to improve conditions for the animals and educate guests about proper interactions. Visitors are increasingly encouraged to sanitize their hands, avoid flash photography, and respect the animals’ rest times. Additionally, some cities have implemented inspections to ensure ethical treatment and proper licensing. You may also notice some cafés transitioning toward rescue-centered models, where the animals are adoptable, and the café helps fund their care. These new-generation cafés aim to offer more ethical alternatives while still providing engaging experiences for animal lovers. How to Search for Animal Cafés in Korea If you want to find animal cafés beyond this blog, try searching the following Korean terms on Naver, KakaoMap, or Instagram: You can also add your location to your search, for example: “평택 애견카페” (Pyeongtaek dog café) or “송탄 동물카페” (Songtan pet café) to find cafés near Osan Air Base. Cat Cafes Bird Cafe in Sosabeol Volunteer Angie reported on the bird cafe: Get up close and personal with a variety of birds with a cup of coffee or other non-alcoholic drink! I’ll admit that I was skeptical about this concept – I was worried about my own safety as well as the care of the birds. Before even stepping inside Bird Sori in Sosabeol I knew my fears were completely unfounded. The staff is well trained to care for the birds and the birds are very sociable with humans. The cafe is very spacious with panoramic views of the river so even when there are many patrons, it doesn’t feel crowded. When you arrive, you will order a drink (mandatory for each person over 2 years old) and select a seat. A staff member will bring a couple of birds and a climber and possibly toys to your table. You can ask for different birds at any time. There are also larger parrots flying freely around the cafe for you to enjoy. There is no time limit, trust me in this as I have definitely overstayed my welcome a time or two. Young children are welcome, and it is normal to see people of all ages. Dog Cafe Unlike the cat and bird cafes mentioned, most dog cafes are either doggy daycares or places to bring your own dog to play and socialize with other dogs, or both. That being said, you definitely can come without a dog as a means to getting your personal doggy fix. Some Dog Cafes charge an entrance fee, while others have minimum drink orders. The price for doggy daycare or overnight stay varies. If you go with children, be aware that you may or may not be allowed in on any given day at any given time. Young children may be denied entry depending on the temperament of the dogs in the cafe at the time. The staff may not be able to communicate this to you if you do not speak Korean well. Just know that they have your child’s and the dog’s best interests in mind. Various Animals You can also grab the kids and head to a cafe that has a variety of pets and farm animals. Reptile Cafe in Cheonan You can also visit Cheonan to get to know some reptiles. Reasons to Visit an Animal Cafe Animal cafes are a unique concept and an experience that everyone should try at least once. Check out the South of Seoul app for more information on these cafes and so much more. After your visit, don’t forget to leave a review on the app and tell us about your experience at Pyeongtaek Food and Fun. South of SeoulFounded 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. www.southofseoul.net

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