Suwon Station café with kaya jam toast and Crimson Punch tea: Hongrad

Walking to Hongrad Suwon Station Branch from Suwon Timevillas

Hongrad Suwon Station Branch is a dessert café on the 2nd floor of a building at 61-1 Hyanggyo-ro, Paldal-gu, Suwon-si, Gyeonggi-do, South Korea. On Friday, September 18, I took a day off, had a great meal at Suwon Timevillas, and walked over to Hongrad Suwon Station Branch as a little stroll afterward. Knowing I'd want dessert at the café, I kept lunch mostly protein.

Heading up to the 2nd floor, I could feel that hip vibe right from the entrance.

Inside Hongrad: New York-concept decor, sofas and window seats

The moment I opened the door and stepped in, the hip New York-concept interior caught my eye.

With its sleek black-and-white tone and rows of soft sofa seats, it was the perfect space to relax comfortably.

There are window seats too, and each table has its own lamp so it never feels dim.

Hongrad opening hours and reservations

• Hours: Daily 12:00–23:00 (last order 22:00)
• Reservations: Phone inquiries available for group visits and store use

Restroom: located inside the store, decorated with hip stickers and playing a gentle stream-of-water soundtrack, so it's easy to use without any hesitation.

There was hand soap I tried, and the scent was so good. It'd even make a nice Chuseok gift haha.

Retro props and the boxing photo zone at Hongrad

Inside the store, vintage-feeling cameras, cassettes, and other retro props were placed all around. Everyone seemed to take at least one photo at the photo zone before leaving.

Boxing-related photos, which I happen to love, were also on display, adding to the store's distinctive personality. On my very first visit, I understood exactly why my junior from school recommended this as their favorite café. It really was a hip space full of women and couples.

After ordering, you're given a buzzer! Crimson Punch and kaya jam toast were served neatly arranged on a tray.

What to order at Hongrad: Crimson Punch, kaya jam toast and Basque cheesecake

1. Crimson Punch herbal tea

This is Tavalon's signature herbal tea, blending hibiscus with various fruits, and its vivid, deep crimson color really shone. One sip, and the tart, distinctive taste of hibiscus lingered wonderfully in my mouth.

2. Kaya jam toast

Two slices of golden, crisply toasted bread are generously spread with sweet, nutty kaya jam (coconut-egg spread), topped with two pats of unsalted butter. I loved the combination — the unsalted butter, with no added salt, let the milk's natural creamy, fatty flavor shine alongside the kaya jam.

An unexpected touch was that the toast plate came with banana and blueberries on the side. The crisp texture of the bread, the melting butter, and the fresh fruit came together in perfect balance, elevating the whole dessert.

3. Basque cheesecake (7,500 won)

The top had a deep, smoky richness, while the inside was creamy yet dense in texture. The heavy, nutty flavor of the cheese paired perfectly with the tangy Crimson Punch.

Receipt-review dog badge and how Hongrad works for studying

Between the friendly service from the staff and the fun of exploring the store, it was a thoroughly enjoyable time. Notably, after leaving a receipt review on Naver, I got a staff-made dog badge.

The dog on the badge was so cute it gave me a little extra dose of healing. I clipped this badge onto the side of my backpack. There are more than six kinds — dogs, cats, and more — so keep an eye out!

Thanks to the relaxed atmosphere, I was able to focus well and even finish studying thoroughly for my certification exam the next day. From the stylish space to the drinks and desserts, nothing was lacking here, so I'm planning to come back again soon. If you're looking for a hip, emotional café in the Suwon area, I highly recommend Hongrad Suwon Station Branch!