Songpa café for panini brunch after a walk: Cafe The Venezia

After staying the night at my younger sister's house, my older sister, younger sister, and I headed out for a light morning walk. The weather was so clear and lovely that just walking along the waterside park felt quietly healing.

As we walked along enjoying the pretty scenery, we spotted a place with its black-framed folding doors thrown wide open. The lake view right in front of us was so refreshingly eye-catching that we naturally found ourselves heading over.

We had walked there, so we'd left the car behind, but when I asked a staff member later, they said we could conveniently use the commercial-building parking lot. Even if you come by car, you should be able to relax without worrying about parking.

What is the interior like?

Once we stepped into the terrace café, with warm sunlight streaming in and chandeliers overhead, the ceiling was quite high, so the view never felt cramped at all.

The elaborate chandeliers hanging from the ceiling glowed softly, while stylish artworks covered the white walls and red-brick columns tied it all together. The whole space felt wonderfully warm.

The leafy green plants placed around the café made it feel even cozier. The tables were very generously spaced and there were plenty of seats, so it was a truly comfortable setting for us three sisters to sit and chat away.

Panini brunch and fresh-baked bread

We took our time choosing from the menu and ordered at the kiosk by the entrance. They say fresh-baked bread starts coming out from 10:30 a.m., and we happened to arrive right around then, so the café was filled with the nutty, sweet scent of bread.

We wanted something a little more substantial that day, so we chose the Best Panini Brunch Set for Two. It normally comes with two Americanos, but I paid a small additional amount to switch them to three iced lattes.

A little later, it arrived very neatly arranged on a green tray, with naturally textured wooden plates and clear glass cups.

The panini, prettily wrapped in kraft paper, had distinct grill marks across the outside, and it honestly made my mouth water just looking at it.

When I looked at the cut half, there were layers of richly seasoned brown beef, softly melted yellow cheese, and red tomato slices. Every bite filled my mouth with generous flavor.

The salad on the side was really fresh too. A mound of bright green vegetables was topped with sautéed mushrooms, onions, and sliced almonds, which added a lovely nuttiness. The little round white bocconcini mozzarella and cherry tomatoes made the colors look so pretty too. Once I drizzled on the balsamic sauce they provided separately, the fragrance was completely doubled.

In the handled glass cups filled with large ice cubes, the espresso shots and white milk formed neat layers, making them look incredibly refreshing too.

The three of us happily clinked our glasses—cheers!—and soaked up a wonderfully leisurely morning.

Helpful Q&A before your visit

Is parking easy?

Yes! There is a well-equipped parking lot exclusively for the commercial building, so even if you visit by car, you can park with plenty of room and ease.

When is the best time for bread?

Fresh-baked breads such as salt bread and scones come out in batches from 10:30 a.m. If you want warm bread while breathing in that savory scent filling the café, I definitely recommend visiting after that time.

What is included in the brunch menu?

There is a great range, from a sandwich set just right for one person to a panini set for two that comes generously with salad and drinks, so it is really easy to choose according to the occasion.

Why I want to return on another walk

A cup of coffee while looking out at that wide-open view was such a comforting part of the day. Next time, on a nice day, I think I'll bring a book, sit alone on the terrace, and spend some quiet time trying the smoked salmon sandwich. It's on such a lovely walking route that I think I'll stop by often whenever I go for a walk.