Sulbing: A Love Letter to the Best Korean Dessert Shop

Dear Sulbing,

You were born in 2013 and left hearts forever changed. Watching you grow and thrive has been one of the joys of my life.

Come back to me. Seriously, can you get some chain locations in the Midwest, perhaps? Because that would be the best.

Sincerely,

A not-so-secret Admirer

In all seriousness, I want to tell the world about my favorite bingsu shop.

Wait…what is bingsu?

There’s no shortage of dessert cafes in Korea. There are the well-known international chains (article on that topic linked at the end!), chains specific to Korea, and smaller mom-and-pop shops.

You can find bingsu in practically any cafe during the warm summer months. Artisee has a nice pat-bingsu, the classic flavor with the sweet bean paste. Paris Baguette has flavored ice flakes that are refreshing but different than the classic shaved ice. But for the most delicious bingsu you can imagine, please head over to Sulbing.

Where can I find a Sulbing cafe??

Sulbing is a Korean dessert chain you can find all over Korea, and throughout neighborhoods in Seoul, such as:

• Gangnam
• Songpa-gu
• Myeongdong
• Hongdae
• & many more!

You can find a store locator to see which of the many many shops is closest to you on their official website here.

Pssst! Word on the street web is that one is opening soon in Fairfax County, VA!! In the U S of A!!!!!!

What should I order??

There are classic flavors that are always available (injulmi soybean powder is very popular), and seasonal/promotional flavors that rotate throughout the year.

My favorite flavors are the mango cheese (cheesecake), and blueberry cheese. It’s juicy fruit paired with squares of sweet cheesecake bites. Refreshing and so good.

Other popular flavors are strawberry (in season December-April usually), melon (summer months), and various chocolate concoctions (which aren’t my personal favorite).

Not only are these desserts a visual work of art, but the flavors and textures taste sooo good as they melt together. You can definitely share one amongst 2 or 3 friends.

Are these cafes kid-friendly??

I mean, it depends on the location. The Gangnam location, for example, is crazy crowded and up a flight of stairs with an elevator that sometimes works and sometimes doesn’t. There’s not really anywhere to wait for a seat, and it can be quite a long time to wait on weekends. The Songpa location (along Seokchon Lake in Jamsil) is much more spread out and even offers high chairs.

I do think most kids enjoy this sweet treat! You can use the small paper (water) cups to scoop some bingsu and fruits into their own personal cup to minimize the double-dipping and germ sharing. 😉

So…what are you waiting for??

I hope I’ve convinced you to try Sulbing if you find yourself in Korea! Thank goodness Sulbing offers bingsu year-round so you don’t have to wait until summer to try this delectable dessert.

I enjoyed Sulbing mere hours before going into labor with my sweet baby boy. Did the sugar and cold sensations jump-start the labor process?? There’s no way to know…but it sure will help keep you refreshed and happy as a 9+ month pregnant person! (Read more about my experience giving birth in South Korea in this article.)

And please, for the love, pour on the sweetened condensed milk in the tiny cup they offer you.

If you’re interested in all things Korea + food, check out these posts, too!