Coffee Talk: Tree In Cafe — sarah symbalisty

It’s a week for coffee shops and nature over here!

While searching for new places to see the fall foliage in Pyeongtaek I came across Tree In Cafe. Opened in July, Tree In Cafe is nestled among the foot hills of Mubongsan and a short drive from Osan Air Base. Even though it’s just minutes from the bustling streets of the Jinwi neighborhood and schools, it’s easy to forget that you’re this close to town.

Massive parking spots in Korea are such a luxury in Korea, iykyk

Driving into the parking lot, you can already tell a lot of attention and care went into designing this cafe. There are 25 (yes I counted!) generous sized, well configured parking spots - a luxury in Korea. The building itself has instant curb appeal. The German schmeared red brick allows this part of the building to stand out while still complimenting the surrounding colors of nature. The black trimmed dark tinted windows are a striking contrast and seem to blend in and stand out at the same time. It feels sophisticated, secluded and private being nestled amongst the pine trees up here.

There is plenty of indoor, outdoor and roof top seating as well as a walking path into the woods. The first floor is light, airy, and clean aesthetic that exude warmth and coziness. The use of natural wood and cream in the furniture allows the view outside the windows to be the focal point. The large picture windows over look the lawn and the surrounding trees and it feels incredibly cozy and inviting. Like a lot of cafes in Korea, this one is also pet friendly and this lawn is a great space!

The second story holds the bathrooms, a large table and the roof top deck. I miss having a yard and my own outdoor space so the second story roof top deck has been my favorite spot for coffee. I love the glass accordion door that leads onto the roof. With several tables scattered across the roof, there’s plenty of shaded and sunny seating available and the layout of the roof top deck allows you to enjoy views no matter where you sit. There are views of the city and views of the trees and on clear weather days you can see across to Buraksan.

This mirror is giving magic portal vibes

Another favorite feature of mine is the giant mirror. Reflecting the sky in front of it, it gives the optical illusion of a hole that would allow you to walk straight on to the mountain behind it.

So far, everything I’ve had here has been great. The white cookie, warmed up, was a delicious addition to my vanilla latte. The butter bar was perfectly dense, without being too sweet, too rich or too soft.

There are several factors that make up my “perfect cafe” check list - from ease of getting there and the level of comfort I feel in a space - and this one has high marks across the board.

Location? 4 stars (because it would take me forever to walk here) - driveable AND I would bike here
Aesthetic/vibes? 5 stars. Cozy and intimate, but not crowded. Warm, welcoming.
Parking lot? 5 stars.
Food and drink selection? 4 stars - love that they have a diverse, unique selection as well as some typical pastries you see in Korea but I would love to see another savory (sandwich or bagel) option
Food and drink taste? 5 stars - everything has been superb!
Staff? 5 stars - welcoming and kind

If you’ve ever been burned by Waze or Naver maps in the past, you know that it can be tricky making it to obscure locations. Naver was pretty perfect along this drive, although at the bottom of the hill to the cafe, she told me I had arrived. Thankfully there was a sign pointing me to continue up the street for the cafe. In fact, once you turned by the school, there were banners and signs at every intersection or split of the road directing the way.