Is This One of the World’s Most Beautiful Starbucks? My Visit to Jeju’s Songdang Park Reserve
🌿 Why Visit Starbucks in Jeju? Here’s Why It’s Worth It
Starbucks is everywhere.
From Italy’s Starbucks Reserve Roastery Milan to Tokyo’s stunning Nakameguro Roastery, and the lavish Opéra Garnier store in Paris, some locations around the world are known for being more than just coffee shops — they’re architectural and cultural experiences.
After visiting the Starbucks Opéra Garnier in Paris in 2024, I thought I’d seen one of the most beautiful Starbucks stores in the world.
So when my friend suggested visiting a massive Starbucks in the middle of Jeju Island, I wasn’t sure what to expect.
I usually avoid franchise cafés when I travel — I prefer small local spots that feel unique to the area.
But I’m glad I went.
The Starbucks Jeju Songdang Park R Reserve Store completely surprised me.
It’s actually the largest Starbucks in Korea, and I had no idea such a place existed in the middle of nature.
Set in the quiet village of Songdang, it blends into Jeju’s natural surroundings while still standing out with its massive scale and serene design.
I went out of curiosity, but it turned into one of the most memorable stops on my trip.
The indoor space was larger than I expected, and the view outside was full of local charm — stone walls, fields, and wide open skies.
It might not have the chandeliers of Paris or the copper tanks of Tokyo,
but in its own way, this store deserves to be mentioned alongside the most beautiful Starbucks in the world.
📍 Location & Basic Info
• 🗺 Address: 1667-1 Songdang-ri, Gujwa-eup, Jeju-si, Jeju
• 🕒 Hours: 08:00–20:00 daily
• ☎ Phone: 1522-3232
• 🚗 Parking: Spacious private parking lot available
• 🌟 Feature: Premium Reserve store with Jeju-exclusive drinks
🪟 My Honest First Impression
As soon as I stepped in, I felt like I wasn’t in a typical Starbucks.
Instead of urban buzz and background noise, I was greeted by a giant glass wall revealing Jeju’s green fields, swaying trees, and open skies.
It was so quiet, so open — like I’d walked into a forest café, not a coffee chain.
The atmosphere was spacious, airy, and naturally beautiful.
Tall ceilings, plants everywhere, and natural light pouring in.
It felt more like a retreat than a café.
📸 And yes — there were lots of picture-perfect spots!
☕ What I Ordered (and What You Should Try)
Since this is a Reserve store, the menu includes Jeju-only drinks and premium coffee.
Yes, it’s pricier than regular locations — but it’s Jeju, and it felt worth it.
Here’s what we tried:
• Jeju Black Sesame Cream Frappuccino (까망 프라푸치노)
• Reserve Café Latte (handcrafted by a barista)
The Frappuccino was rich and nutty, topped with generous black sesame cream.
The Reserve latte? Deep, smooth, and honestly one of the best I’ve had at any Starbucks.
☕ It had a layered richness you can’t get from a machine-brewed cup.
📝 Honest Thoughts: What I Loved (and What I Didn’t)
One of the biggest highlights of this place was its location and atmosphere.
Unlike city cafés that feel rushed and cramped, this Starbucks is surrounded by nature open fields, tall trees, and the quiet rhythm of Jeju’s countryside.
It felt like I had found a secret hideaway where I could truly slow down.
The indoor space was beautifully designed, with natural light and earthy tones everywhere.
There were plenty of seats both inside and outside, and I saw families, solo travelers, and even a few people quietly reading books.
It’s the kind of café where time doesn’t feel like it’s running out.
The drinks were definitely on the pricier side, but I personally felt they matched the quality and setting.
It’s not a place I would visit every day — but for a travel memory, it was worth it. If I had to point out a downside, it would be the accessibility.
The store is located in a rural area, so it’s not easy to get to without a car.
Public transportation options are limited, and it might be tricky if you’re depending on buses.
Also, like many famous cafés in Jeju, it can get quite busy on weekends. I was lucky to visit on a weekday afternoon, and it was quiet — but I imagine it feels very different during peak hours.
Still, despite those small inconveniences, I walked out feeling genuinely refreshed.
That kind of moment is hard to find — and that’s why I’d absolutely recommend it.
🌸 Final Thoughts
This place wasn’t just another coffee stop — it was part of the Jeju travel experience itself. A calm retreat where I could pause, breathe, and soak in both caffeine and scenery.
If you’re looking for a unique, sensory Starbucks visit during your Jeju trip, this is the place.
Next time I visit, I’ll definitely go back to try another local menu item!