korean desserts, once dubbed “grandma’s taste buds,” have become the hottest thing since sliced bread. From the layered gogi juak, to the buttery and cheesy yakgwa, to the fruity freshness of yanggang. these modern twists on traditional flavors are now at the center of the hipster scene, captivating the tastebuds of Gen MZ. Here are three of the hottest Korean dessert destinations to watch right now.

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1. meeyo: The season of affection in a bite (Yeonnam-dong)

한식 디져트 트랜드 감각 현대 힙한 한남동 연남동 핫플 카페 맛집 — 개성주악

located at the end of an alley in Yeonnam-dong, Meeyo is a tea room that serves refreshments that go well with tea. Its specialty is handmade yanggang, which uses seasonal fruits to add interest to the flavor and shape. The lemon yuzu yanggang, which resembles a mountain, fills your mouth with a refreshing taste and subtle aroma. the “Dajeong Set” is a great option for those who want to experience a wide range of Korean refreshments, as it comes with six different flavors, including gaegajuak, moyak, and kumquat oranges. it’s recommended for those who want to focus on dessert in a quiet atmosphere.
INSTAGRAM: @muiyo___

2. golden Peace: The Colorful Transformation of Yakgwa (Hannam-dong)

‘Golden Peace’, which is popular for catering and gifts, is leading the ‘medicine and craze’. the Hannam-dong showroom showcases the brand’s intention to modernize tradition with a golden curved desk and classic displays that resemble a medicine cabinet. traditional flavors like sesame and black sesame, as well as unfamiliar combinations like lemon yogurt and earl grey, appeal to the tastes of Generation MZ. the chewy, sweet treats stay true to their original flavors, but with a trendy twist. recently, they have also introduced an ice cream menu topped with sticky rice and chocolate yakgwa, so you can enjoy it together.
INSTAGRAM: @goldenpiece_korea

3. muwon: ingredients from our land, born into a modern dessert

a collaboration between ceramic brand Moojagi and premium yokgang brand Jaji, Moowon creates modern desserts that utilize good ingredients from around Korea. their signature desserts include whinansi made with Gyeongsan dates, gamtae whinansi made with Seosan persimmon, and red bean bingsu, which is topped with cream so smooth that the red bean kernels don’t crunch at all. the shaved ice is savory and light, without the astringency of red beans, and will appeal to even the most casual red bean lover. We also recommend trying their other handmade yanggang, such as the apple yanggang, which is refreshing and fruity, and the chestnut yanggang, which has crunchy chestnut pieces.
INSTAGRAM: @cafe.muwon

frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q. what is the ‘grandmotherly’ trend?

A. It’s a neologism that combines the words “grandmother” and “millennial” to describe a younger generation that enjoys the tastes and culture of their grandmother’s generation. The reemergence of traditional foods such as medicinal plants, crystalline fruits, and black sesame seeds as “hip” items is part of the grandmotherly trend.

Q. do these places require reservations?

A. Reservations are required for the refreshment set at Meeyo and the tin case package at Golden Peace. Muwon is relatively free to visit, but there may be a wait on weekends. we recommend checking each brand’s Instagram announcements before visiting.

Q. are there any other notable Korean desserts besides yakgwa or yanggang?

A. There are a variety of modern twists on traditional desserts, such as “gidaejuak,” which is glutinous rice flour battered and fried in oil, “angbutter seulgi,” which is rice cake, red beans, and butter, and “jeonggwa,” which is seasonal fruit stewed in honey or sugar.