Tongin Market Lunchbox Cafe 통인시장 도시락카페
Seoul · Jongno, Bukchon & Palaces · Meal
This lunchbox cafe in Tongin Market lets you build your own meal with a unique system. Buy a set of brass coins at the counter, take a tray, and then walk along the market stalls to trade coins for side dishes, rice and soup. The system recalls how people shopped in older markets, and children usually love the game-like process.
Because stalls change, the exact options vary from day to day. Some staff speak a little English, and photo signs help. Bring a little cash.
Opening hours and prices may change, and it is mainly a lunch spot.
Getting there
Gyeongbokgung Station (경복궁역), Line 3 Exit 2, and walk about ten minutes west to Tongin Market.
Show this Korean name to your taxi driver or match it to signs: 통인시장 도시락카페
- Best time to visit
- Weekday lunch, just before noon, has the best choice of side dishes. Afternoons see items sell out.
- Pair it with
- Seochon Village Walk surrounds the market, and Tosokchon Samgyetang and Chebudong Janchijip are close.
- Great for
- Families with kids
- Local tip
- Buy a set of brass coins at the counter, then fill a tray with side dishes from the stalls. Bring a little cash; children usually enjoy the game-like format.