risar sets the standard for espresso bars in Korea

in the Korean coffee market, where even the word espresso was unfamiliar, there is a brand that has withstood the test of time for 14 years. it’s Leesar Coffee, a brand thathas stayed the course by focusing on the essentials rather than chasing trends . we take a look at the philosophy that has taken Leesar from espresso barrenness to a mecca for an average of 1,000 people a day.

why an espresso bar: a commitment to the basics

the name Risar is a combination of the Hebrew word for “body” and the Spanish word for “pillar,” plus Lee’s last name. Just as the name means “to establish a center,” Risar focuses on the basics of coffee: espresso. with the simple but firm belief that “if the espresso is good, the rest of the menu will be good,” they have established a standing bar culture where you can focus on a single small cup rather than a long sit-down cafe experience.

sensory Design: Designing the Experience

everything on our menu is designed with the espresso drinking experience at the forefront.

• the6-ounce cappuccino: We stick to the right size because we believe that larger portions dilute the flavor.
• single shot rule: In a market where double shots have become the norm, we’ve maintained the standard for healthy, delicious coffee.
• affordable prices: We’ve kept most of our menu items in the 2,000 won range for over a decade, making it accessible to everyone.

location and operating philosophy: Spaces that add value

with 12 branches in operation today, Risar’s location selection criteria is different. rather than simply chasing high foot traffic, he chooses places where the brand can create a new flow by coming in. from our first store on the hilltop of Wangsimni to our Jejongwon location, which connects to the symbolism of Korea’s first western-style hospital, we’ve expanded in ways that add new value to the space.

the essence of flavor and people: a journey toward smoothness

lee defines a good espresso as “intuitive smoothness.” To achieve this, he has set standards through countless brews on vintage machines, and invests heavily in barista training, believing that it is the people who keep the standards. in-depth training and rigorous QC throughout the entire process, from cultivation to brewing, are the driving forces behind our consistent flavor at every point.

14 years of growth: unwavering standards

even in the midst of a crisis that halved his sales, Lissar didn’t compromise, choosing instead to lower the price of his espresso and bring happiness to more people. A time when he refused to be swept away by the market and steadfastly proved what he believed was right. Perhaps that’s why today we find trust and depth in the name Lissar.

lissar coffee cheongdam info

• address: 60, Dosan-daero 99-gil, Gangnam-gu, Seoul, Korea