I first came to know about Protokoll Roasters while they were operating their first and only outlet in Yeonhui-dong. Since then, the brand’s success has expanded enough for them to open a showroom and an aesthetic 3-storey café in Sangsu.
When I visited the Sangsu outlet, the showroom was unfortunately closed as they were busy running a booth at Seoul’s Coffee Expo. This showroom served as a multifunctional space for baristas to explain about Protokoll and the coffee they serve, to conduct coffee tasting and brewing classes, and for other baristas to try out their equipment – all on a reservation basis.
Right behind the showroom is the full-fledged café serving just coffee and financiers. As I came in right at opening hour, I explored the 3 storeys freely while waiting to collect my order. I loved the part industrial, part classroom-like interior – the exposed ceiling, bare concrete floor, wooden drawers with metal handles, metal lamps, all seemed to be in harmony with one another. The chairs and tables were also arranged to mimic a classroom setting, with stationery and notepads placed on the tables.
On the menu for espresso coffee, there were 2 types of beans I chose from: the Super Normal Blend, which is the very first blend created by Protokoll, and Pureut (푸릇) which is a Single Origin.
I had a Small Latte (KRW6000) with the Super Normal blend. It had a good body but not too heavy for me, with tasting notes of dark chocolate with a subtle tartness.
Apart from espresso coffee, there were also a range of Filter Coffees from Ethiopia, Costa Rica and Columbia.
There were only financiers (supplied by a bakery called Elder Franc) served in 4 flavours on the pastries/dessert menu – the Butter Scotch Almonds, O Lemon Marmadlade, Earl Grey Chocochip, and Espresso Vanilla. I had the Espresso Vanilla Financier (KRW3800) which was just alright. It could be rather dry to have it without the coffee pairing.
I highly recommend coming early to grab the window seats which gives you more privacy. Coffee connoisseurs must try this café.
13-4 Eoulmadang-ro 2-gil, Mapo-gu, Seoul
Sangsu Station Exit 4
10.30am – 9pm daily
Foodography: A Singapore Food Blog 