London Bagel Museum : Is it worth the hype? (+ Tips before visiting)
Seoul’s café and bakery scene is constantly evolving, but few places have captured the city’s attention quite like London Bagel Museum! With its whimsical name, old-world charm, and Instagram-famous bagels, it has become one of the most talked-about bakery destinations in Korea. If you’ve ever walked past one of its branches, you’ve probably seen the long queues stretching down the block — a sign of just how popular it is.
But is it really worth the hype? After visiting multiple branches myself — from the bustling Anguk Station flagship to the stylish Dosan location, and even the newer spots inside Jamsil Lotte Mall and The Hyundai Mall Yeouido — I’ve gathered some insights to help you decide whether to line up, what to order, and how to make the most of your visit.
Today’s Stop : London Bagel Museum!
The Atmosphere
Each branch of London Bagel Museum feels like stepping into a little pocket of London charm, recreated in Seoul. The cozy, rustic interiors feature wooden shelves lined with loaves, charming chalkboard menus, and the warm scent of freshly baked bagels wafting through the air. Unlike the minimalist aesthetic of many Korean cafés, this bakery leans into nostalgia and coziness, making you feel like you’ve stumbled into a neighborhood bakery.
Branches I’ve Visited
1. Anguk Station (Flagship Branch)
This is the original location and still the most iconic. Tucked away near Bukchon Hanok Village, it’s perfectly situated for tourists and locals alike. However, the popularity here is intense — the line starts early in the morning, and popular-flavored bagels often sell out within hours. If you want the “classic” London Bagel Museum experience, this is where you’ll feel the buzz of being at the epicenter of the hype.
Tip: If you have the Catchtable app, make a reservation as soon as you are awake and spend your day around the Gyeongbukgung palace. Once your waiting number drops to the tens, walk nearby to the cafe to secure your spot as soon as it’s your time to enter!
2. Dosan Branch
Surprisingly, this is the least crowded branch I’ve visited — and it might be my favorite for that reason alone. Located in Apgujeong’s trendy Dosan area, it has the same rustic charm without the stress of battling huge crowds. When I went, there was no queue at all for takeaways, which made the entire experience so much more enjoyable.
If you want the London Bagel Museum vibes without the wait, Dosan is the branch to target.
3. Jamsil Lotte Mall
Conveniently located inside one of Seoul’s largest shopping malls, this branch is a great option if you’re already in Jamsil to visit Lotte World Tower or do some shopping. The atmosphere is a bit more commercial than the cozy standalone branches, but it’s perfect if you’re looking to grab bagels while on a shopping trip.
Queues can still form here, especially on weekends, but they move relatively quickly compared to Anguk.
4. The Hyundai Mall Yeouido
This branch is tucked away in the B1 level mall, the traditional rustic feeling of London Bagel Museum, fitting right into the upscale vibe of The Hyundai Mall. It attracts a lot of office workers from nearby buildings, so mornings and lunch hours can get busy. That said, it’s a good spot if you want to pair your bagel run with a luxury mall experience.
The Bagels: Best Menu Items
So, what should you actually order once you get inside?
While London Bagel Museum is known for its wide selection, I’ve narrowed down my personal favorites that I think are truly worth trying:
Savory Options :
Garlic Bagel – A must-try if you love bold flavors. Packed with roasted garlic goodness, it’s aromatic and satisfying.
Truffle Butter Bagel – Rich, indulgent, and a little luxurious. The truffle aroma elevates the humble bagel into something memorable.
Sweet Options :
Dark Chocolate Bagel – Perfect for dessert lovers. The chocolate is deep and slightly bitter, balancing the sweetness beautifully.
Cinnamon Pecan Bagel – Warm, spiced, and nutty — this feels like autumn in a bite.
Cream Cheese
Maple Pecan Cream Cheese – Sweet, nutty blend of maple syrup and crunchy pecans.
Truffle Pesto Cream Cheese – Savory mix of truffle and basil pesto, rich and aromatic.
These flavors are not only delicious but also showcase the creativity that makes London Bagel Museum stand out from your average bakery.
When to Visit?
Timing is everything at London Bagel Museum. Here are some tips from my own experiences:
Early Morning (Opening Hours): Best selection of bagels, though you’ll need to queue.
Weekdays: Avoid weekends if possible — you’ll not only be competing to queue with tourists, but also locals from all around the country.
Is It Worth the Hype?
So, the big question: should you brave the lines? In my opinion, yes — but strategically.
London Bagel Museum isn’t just about bagels; it’s about the full experience. The interior, the branding, the whimsical presentation, and of course, the bagels themselves all combine to create something special. While it may not be worth standing in a two-hour line at Anguk on a hot summer day, choosing the right branch (hello, Dosan!) and the right time can make the visit absolutely worthwhile.
The bagels are genuinely delicious — chewy, flavorful, and inventive without being gimmicky, it’s easy to understand why this place has become a sensation.
Final Tips for First-Time Visitors
Go Early if You Want Options – Popular flavors sell out quickly.
Bring a Friend – Queuing is always easier (and more fun) with company.
Pair with a Walk – After Anguk, explore Bukchon Hanok Village. After Yeouido, stroll along the Han River. Make the most of the location.
Conclusion
London Bagel Museum has earned its reputation as one of Seoul’s must-visit bakeries. From its rustic London-inspired interiors to its inventive menu, it offers more than just food — it’s an experience. Yes, the hype has led to long lines and plenty of Instagram posts, but beneath it all is a bakery that truly delivers on flavor and atmosphere.
If you’re curious, I’d recommend planning a visit. Go early, pick the right branch, and don’t leave without trying the garlic, truffle butter, dark chocolate, or cinnamon pecan bagels. And if you’re like me and prefer a more relaxed outing, Dosan is your best bet.
So, is it worth the hype?
With the right timing and a little strategy, absolutely.
