Dotori Yongsan

Dotori means acorn, and this cafe leans into the forest-cottage idea from the street: a weathered wooden front, a blue acorn mascot doll by the door and warm, low lighting inside that many visitors compare to a Studio Ghibli scene. The ground floor holds the bakery counter and a Greek yogurt bar, while the second floor and a small terrace add more seats, with acorn-shaped cushions scattered around. The signature is the acorn bread, a little acorn-shaped loaf in plain, chocolate, matcha and red bean, chestnut and strawberry versions, plus a box of six madeleine flavors that works as a gift. The other draw is thick Greek yogurt served in bowls with honeycomb, berries or seasonal fruit, which makes it a good breakfast stop since doors open at 9 a.m. Salt bread and canelés round out the case. The space is dim and cozy rather than bright, and the wooden facade is the classic outdoor shot. It is in the lanes off Samgakji Station, a short walk from SAM SAM SAM and the War Memorial.