In an intriguing review, a Korean influencer explored Bacha Coffee’s flagship store, which has garnered attention for its steep pricing of 1.4 million won (approximately $1,000) per 100 grams of coffee beans.
Kim Bo-kyem, known for his YouTube channel Bokyem TV, recently shared his experience visiting the inaugural Bacha Coffee shop in Seoul. The shop, located in Cheongdam-dong and the first of its kind in Northeast Asia, opened its doors on August 1. Kim’s visit included a taste of the Paraiso Gold Coffee, the priciest option available at the establishment.
Kim’s footage offered a glimpse into the opulent decor of the shop, reminiscent of a smaller British royal palace. He noted the form-filling process required to place an order and observed the presence of security personnel overseeing the premises. Despite his inquiries, he was informed by a staff member that no one had previously purchased the Paraiso Gold Coffee.
The Bacha Coffee shop offers Paraiso Gold Coffee for 200,000 won ($150) per takeout cup, while enjoying the same coffee in the shop’s Coffee Room costs 480,000 won ($360) for a 350-milliliter serving. The shop also provides more affordable options, with the least expensive coffee priced at 16,000 won for a 350-milliliter pot.
Kim, eager to experience the high-end coffee, sampled it immediately after purchasing. He described the aroma as reminiscent of the mild scent of Febreze, a popular air freshener. After a second sip, Kim compared the taste to that of a Mega Coffee, a well-known low-cost coffee chain in Korea, with a mild strength.
Lotte Department Store, which has acquired exclusive rights to distribute and franchise Bacha Coffee in Korea, opened the Cheongdam store following a deal struck by CEO Chung Joon-ho. The deal involved a trip to Singapore to finalize arrangements with V3 Gourmet, the brand’s operator. Since then, Bacha Coffee products have been available online.
Lotte plans to further expand Bacha Coffee’s presence by opening a second shop in Myeong-dong within the year and a third location in Jamsil early next year.
The entry of Bacha Coffee into the Korean market is part of a broader trend of premium foreign coffee brands establishing a presence in the region. Notable competitors include Intelligentsia, which launched its second Korean shop in July, and No Coffee from Japan, known for its “black latte,” which opened in Seoul in April. Additionally, Ralph’s Coffee, a division of Ralph Lauren, is actively seeking baristas for its first Korean location, while Norwegian brand Fuglen has recently started looking for a venue in Seoul.