Hop on the Hogwarts Express to King’s Cross Café

For many of us, travelling means going to the places that you have dreamt of since you were a kid! Travelling allows us explore new cultures, meet new people, and to visit places that only exists in books and fairy tales. Being a proud Slytherin who is still waiting for her Hogwarts acceptance letter, coming across this Harry Potter theme café is a dream come true!

Like the Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, this café isn’t easy to find. Well, at least not for muggle eyes. Buried deep within the alleys of Hongdae, King’s Cross is at the end of a winding path from the main road. Take exit 9 of Hongdae station and keep walking straight until you see Paris Baguette then turn left. It may be a bit confusing but if you’re on the right track, the building will definitely stand out with its pale yellow exterior.

While the cafe opens at 10 o’clock, I got there at quarter past nine and there were already people queuing up for a photo with the luggage cart. So come early to get the best photos and show off your house pride!

The entrance to the cafe is yet another sight to behold. Almost like a magical door to a wizard’s hut (forgive the pun), it’s amazing how much detail and effort went into these decorations. There will be people snapping photos at the entrance too so beware not to photobomb anyone. But one thing’s for sure, say “Hi!” to Hedwig staring at you from inside the window before stepping into King’s Cross. Alohomora!

Also, expect a bit of a crowd especially if you’re headed to the cafe in the afternoon. You will walk straight into Ollivanders Shop — the first stop of any wizard or witch’s magical journey. Let your inner diva out and pose with the wall of wands. Remember, it’s the wand that chooses the wizard.

While you’re there, don’t forget to check below the stairs. Although you won’t find Harry Potter’s room here, you’ll find a cosy spot with a vintage TV and a chessboard. Doesn’t this remind you of Wizard Chess?

Beneath all these incredible decorations that bring you to Hogwarts with a speck of floo powder, King’s Cross Café’s menu is equally stunning! Pamper yourself with Harry Potter inspired cupcakes and drinks. My favorites are definitely pumpkin pie and the ever classic butterbeer (non-alcoholic). Now this is one pretty drink with swirling gold lustre that gives it a truly magical twist.

And for our lovely birthday-boys and birthday-girls, or just anyone feeling in the mood for a celebration, how about treating yourself to Harry’s birthday cake? While these petite cakes aren’t baked by your friendly neighborhood half-giant, they sure pack a giant amount of deliciousness and fun!

When your order is ready, bring it to the third floor that brings Hogwarts’ Great Hall alive. Decked out with rows of wooden tables, dine like the Golden Trio and chit-chat over butterbeer while Hedwig’s theme loops in the background. However, if you prefer a more private day out, there are also tables for two to four.

Hogwarts has a special place in my heart, and for all Potterheads, is a place we can call home. Travelling can be tiring and things might not always turn out the way we want them to. So what can be better than a little escape with a bit of magic and surrounding yourself with happiness and friends? In the end, “Happiness can be found in the darkest of places, if one only remembers to turn on the light.”