Tucked away at one of Itaewon’s highest points (it was quite a struggle getting here but totally worth it), this has got to be one of the most interesting cafes I have ever visited in Seoul. Neon lights lit up the four-storey-high cafe and turntables and boomboxes peppered the space (it’s pretty grimy and kitschy). Besides getting your coffee (and food) fix, you can purchase vinyl records (it has a wide selection from current hits to 80s music) and you can even enter specific rooms to listen to some of the tracks available. The best part? Its super IG-worthy decor and you can opt for a table on the rooftop for sweeping (and breathtaking) views of the city. 620-124 Hannam-dong, Yongsan-gu (nearest subway station: Itaewon)

Anyone heading to Seoul should definitely check out Gentle Monster (there are a total of four different outlets in Seoul). Known for its multi-sensorial experience and one-of-a-kind concepts and interiors, this is not your usual eyewear store. Besides its impressive and quirky designs, the stores are designed differently so no two shops are alike and feature some of the most Instagrammable spots to snag that perfect #OOTD shot. 22, Apgujeong-ro 10-gil, Gangnam-gu, 533-6, Sinsa-dong, Gangnam-gu, 404-5, Seogyo-dong, Mapo-gu and 92, Gyedong-gil, Jongno-gu

Vinyl record fans – and anyone who’s into music, really – are seriously going to love this space. This two-storey-high music hub is one of the best places to unwind, listen to your favourite tunes and sip on a cuppa joe (yes, there’s a pretty sick cafe on the second floor). With a huge selection of vinyl records and CDs (from English electronic duo Honne to K-pop giants Big Bang and the illest hip-hop sounds from Drake, Wu Tang Clan and even The Roots), it’s close to impossible to walk away without buying at least one item. And if you can’t make up your mind, don’t worry, you can give it a listen at one of the booths scattered across the entire store. 683-131 Hannam-dong, Yongsan-gu

I personally love multi-brand boutique A Land for its extensive lineup of both fashion and beauty products (this is where I get my Klairs and Cosrx stuff) but the one situated in Myeongdong is my personal fave because the top floor is dedicated to all things vintage – think Burberry shirts, Tommy Hilfiger windbreakers and a selection of caps and accessories you can’t find anywhere else. 30 Myeongdong 6-gil, Myeongdong 2(i)-ga, Jung-gu

If you’re into film photography and cameras, then you have to visit this cafe. Not only do they sell actual cameras, polaroids and rolls of film, you can even kick-back and unwind with a cup of coffee and a slice of cake (or your choice of dessert). The store’s even merch for sale as well: t-shirts, cool posters and it’s located diagonally across Mmm Records (planning a day to cafe hop? Clearly, Itaewon is a must-visit). #201, 4 Woosadanro 10magil, Yongsan-gu