Protokoll (Sangsu & Showroom): taste first, then settle in
One-line takeaway
Start with a quick tasting at the Showroom, then work or unwind at Protokollโs three-floor Sangsu space.
Calm light, quiet music, plenty of outlets.
Why you should go (3 reasons)
- You can taste coffees at the Showroom and choose your bean before ordering.
- The main Sangsu cafe spans three sunlit floors with minimalist, indirect lighting.
- Solo-friendly layout with outlets at most seats; a few small group tables only.
What itโs like
I started at the compact Showroom near Sangsu/Hapjeong. They asked what flavors I like and poured several tastes before I chose.
With a small card in hand, I walked a few steps to the three-story building. I showed the card, got a buzzer, and watched light pool across pale wood and black tabletops while ambient music played.
Most people worked quietly on 2F and 3F. The floors arenโt internally connected, so you use outside stairs. 1F felt more bar-style; upstairs leaned focused and calm, with outlets easy to find.
What to try / how to enjoy it
- Begin at the Showroom for a guided tasting, then pick your bean.
- If you like brighter profiles, try the โํธ๋ฆโ roast; itโs designed to be approachable even for acidity-averse drinkers.
- Prefer espresso drinks? Order on the 1F counter at the building; filter is available too.
- Pair your coffee with the nurungji financier for a toasty-sweet bite.
- Head upstairs for quiet: 2F and 3F are work-friendly with lots of outlets.
- Turn the small wall key to switch on your table lamp, then settle in with the provided pencil and memo pad.
- Use caution on the steep exterior stairs, especially in wet or snowy weather.
Practical notes
- Addresses: Showroom โ 10, Eoulmadang-ro 2-gil, Mapo-gu; Sangsu โ 13-4 on the same street (three-floor building).
- Getting there: about 6 minutes on foot from Sangsu Station; about 11 minutes from Hapjeong Station.
- Hours (vary by source): Showroom 10:30โ19:00 (LO 18:30); Sangsu 10:30โ21:00, no holidays. Check Instagram @protokoll.roasters before you go.
https://www.instagram.com/protokoll.roasters/ - Two-building flow: you can taste and order at the Showroom, then present the card at Sangsu for preparation; or order directly on 1F at Sangsu.
- Seating: floors are not internally connected; use exterior stairs for 2F/3F. 1F is bar-style; group tables are limited upstairs.
- Work-friendly: strong WiโFi; outlets at most seats (often at eye level); pencils and memo pads are provided.
- Pet policy: Sangsu location allows pets (per venue info).
