As you know, Korea is famous for its’ prevalent drinking culture, which as a closeted alcoholic, rejoiced me. But you might not know that Korea also has the best non-acholic drinks variety, which was something I looked forward to when we booked the ticket to Korea. Here are some of the most memorable ones:-
Non-Alcoholic Korean Drinks You Must Try in South Korea
Banana Mat Uyu from any convenience store in South Korea
This Banana Flavoured drink and its container shaped like a traditional Korean jar is quintessentially Korean. Though I am familiar with banana-themed skincare products in Korea, I had just tried the milk last month, on my last day in Seoul. I had expected a more robust banana flavour, but it was more of an undertone, which was my preference. Would I drink it again? In the summer, probably, but otherwise, not really. I can significantly understand locals’ fondness for it if you grew up with it. Akin to Yakult in my household.
Danhobak Latte (Korean Pumpkin Latte) at Coffee & Walnut Cookie Cafe, Seoul
Unlike the Banana Mt Uyu, which I only got to try recently, I had my first sip of a Korean Pumpkin Latte on my first morning in Korea almost a decade ago. Vi ordered it and was kind enough to share it with me. I still remember how comfortingly delicious it tasted. Oh, also, worth to note that it tasted nothing like Starbucks’ Pumpkin Spice Latte, which I despised. So if you hate PSL, you might like K-PL.
Goguma Latte (Korean Potato Latte) at Poop Cafe, Ssamzegil, Seoul
Taro Latte is not new if you are a fan of bubble tea like me, but still, the hot Korean version is heaps better. But it could be because I only had it while overlooking the beautiful streets of Insadong from above while sitting in the Poop Cafe in Ssamzegil. After all, Location matters.
Heukimja Latte (Korean Black Sesame Latte) Near Tongin Market, Seoul
Black Sesame Latte is the most comforting Korean drink I have had. It comes very close in competition with Taro Latte. The only difference is that drinking BSL is quite filling, and I tend to want to take a nap immediately after drinking it, which I am embarrassed to say I did a couple of times while in Seoul last month.
Black Rice Latte at Starbucks Reserve, Hongdae
I have never had Black Rice Latte before, so when I saw it on the menu on Hongdae Starbucks Reverse, I had to try it. I love rice, and all the Korean drink lattes I had in Korean before I loved, so it was a no-brainer. But, unfortunately, the black rice latte was a bit much. I still think I’d order it again, but not if there are other options from above.
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