I Visited Sung Sim Dang – The Bakery Even Locals Line Up For in Daejeon
Sung Sim Dang is so famous in Daejeon that even locals line up to get their hands on the baked goods.
There are several locations, but I visited the one inside Lotte Department Store Daejeon.
We parked in the underground parking lot and took the elevator up.
As soon as we arrived at B1, we found the Sung Sim Dang Boutique.
Sung Sim Dang Boutique (부띠끄)
This boutique specializes in cakes.
At first, it seemed like there was no place to sit and eat, but surprisingly, there was some seating available.
There were so many cakes on display – especially the Mango Siru (망고 시루) being made fresh by staff in real-time.
It made me wonder: How many of those do they make in a day? 😅
Everything was done in a very systematic way – one staff member slicing mangoes, another carefully placing them on top of cakes. Very efficient!
Sung Sim Dang is famous for its Strawberry Siru and Mango Siru cakes.
They’re incredibly good value for the price—honestly, no other cake shop in Korea can beat it when it comes to value for money.
The only downside? They’re not the easiest cakes to eat.
They’re packed more with fresh cream and fruit than actual sponge cake, so they can get a bit messy.
But if you get the chance, they're absolutely worth trying.
Interestingly, there wasn’t a long line here.
I think it’s because the Mango Siru cakes are quite big, so you’d only buy one if you’re planning to share or have a special occasion.
After visiting the boutique, we headed up to the main Sung Sim Dang bakery on the 1st floor.
Wow... it was packed with people.
Though I’ve heard this is one of the less crowded locations!
If it’s your first time, don’t be confused. Just grab a tray and tongs and start choosing your bread.
You only line up for the cashier, not while picking out bread.
Pro Tip: Get a Cart if You Can!
At first, I thought people were going overboard with the huge bakery carts… but after walking around for 10 minutes, I realized:
You’ll want a cart, too.
And yes – even the carts have a line. If you see one available, grab it immediately!
Bread & More
There’s so much more than bread – they also sell gift cookies and snacks, beautifully packaged and perfect for souvenirs or formal occasions.
They also had chilled items like rolls and cakes.
These were constantly being restocked, so don’t worry if it looks like something is sold out.
Plan at Least 40 Minutes Here
Between browsing, choosing your bread, and waiting in line to pay (or get things sliced), it takes at least 40 minutes to get through everything.
The store is large, the crowd is thick, and the variety is incredible.
Honestly, time just flies in there!
Prices?
The prices are slightly cheaper than most premium bakeries, but not crazy cheap.
For example, a Mocha Bun was about ₩3,000.
What’s Popular?
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Sandwiches – surprisingly popular
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Salt Bread (₩1,500) – so popular there’s a separate line, with a limit of 6 per person!
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Healthy Breads – like whole grain, low sugar, and vegan options.
Examples:-
Rye Shower Bread: ₩7,000
-
Pain de Campagne (Small): ₩4,500
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Noix Raisin: ₩7,000
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Volkon 50: ₩6,000
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Red Wine Bread: ₩4,500
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My Friend’s Recommendation: Mentaiko Baguette (₩3,800)
Highly recommended by my Daejeon friend – it didn’t disappoint!
Must-Try Signature Items
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Boeun Mountain Echo Bread (보문산 메아리) – comes in large and small sizes
Locals say the small one is crispier!
(Limit: 2 per person)
- Fried Soboro Bread – available in gift sets
- Mentaiko Baguette (명란바게트)
A crispy, golden baguette filled with rich, savory mentaiko (spicy cod roe) butter.
The outside is perfectly crunchy, while the inside is soft, flavorful, and slightly salty with a creamy mentaiko spread that melts in your mouth. It's the kind of bread that’s simple yet unforgettable.
Locals in Daejeon often recommend it, and for good reason — once you try it, you’ll understand why it's so popular.
It's sold at around ₩3,800 per piece, and totally worth every bite.
We picked out a ton of bread.
Everyone’s preferences were clear – one hand holding a tray, the other holding a box of signature bread.
We tried to get a cart again… but no luck 😢
Never thought I’d be standing outside Lotte Department Store loaded with this much bread 😂
They’ve practically taken over the department store entrance – and it’s the only outside line Lotte seems to allow!
The good thing about this location is – you don’t need to line up to enter like other Sung Sim Dang branches.
Just go in, grab a tray, and start choosing.
Only the cashier line is long, so keep that in mind!
Final Thoughts
We were in Daejeon for a short trip and went all out at Sung Sim Dang.
The variety of breads is just jaw-dropping ❤️
You probably won’t find another bakery quite like it!
If you’re planning to visit Sung Sim Dang before catching a train or bus, give yourself at least 40 minutes. 🤣
If you have any other questions, don’t hesitate to drop a comment below!
If you want to learn more about Korea,
click on the 'South Korea Seoul Trip' label on this blog.😆
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