The Essence of Italian Elegance – Acqua di Parma Yellow Café Opens in Seoul

In the heart of Korea, a new emblem of Italian elegance and creativity unfolds with the opening of the Acqua di Parma Yellow Café. Designed by the acclaimed Dorothée Meilichzon, this boutique café is a testament to the fusion of Italy’s rich architectural heritage and Milanese design prowess with the dynamic energy of Seoul. Situated in the prestigious Lotte Avenuel Jamsil B1F, the café marks a new chapter in the narrative of luxury and culture.

The Acqua di Parma Yellow Café is not merely a space but a celebration of craftsmanship, design, and heritage. Noble white stone finishes, graceful arches, and expansive vaults set the stage, while details inspired by the Memphis movement add a layer of boldness and vibrancy. The interior palette is a tribute to the natural beauty of Italy, with hues of citrus yellow, Mediterranean blue, Parma violet, and pristine whites that evoke the silhouette of a serene cityscape.

Read our guide to the best hotels in Seoul

Upon stepping inside, guests are enveloped in a warm ambience of yellow and cream, highlighted by the brand’s iconic colours. The seating, upholstered in plush Acqua di Parma yellow, invites a sense of intimacy, while round tables promote a spirit of community and shared experiences. The central kitchen area, alive with the buzz of activity, serves as the focal point, surrounded by shelves laden with Acqua di Parma’s exquisite products.

The design intricately weaves the essence of the brand’s heritage through the use of materials and motifs. Textured elements reminiscent of citrus peel add a tactile dimension to the décor, celebrating the zest of life that Acqua di Parma embodies. A sculptural staircase, illuminated in the brand’s signature yellow, leads the eye to a meticulously displayed Colonia bottle, creating a visual and emotional connection to the brand’s roots.

Dorothée Meilichzon’s approach to the design was one of cultural synthesis and vibrant aesthetics. “My vision was to bridge the architectural magnificence of Italy, especially Milanese design, with the lively spirit of Korea, particularly Seoul,” Meilichzon explains. The result is a space that engages in a cultural dialogue as much as it makes a statement in design.

The café’s round bar is a centrepiece, offering a curated drip coffee experience with beans that tell a story as rich and nuanced as Acqua di Parma’s fragrances. The menu, inspired by Italian lifestyle, includes delights such as Buongiorno Panna Cotta, Colonia Tart, Tiramisu, and Lemon/Orange Mousse Cake. Moreover, the café is poised to become a hub for exclusive events and masterclasses, inviting guests to dive deeper into the worlds of coffee and fragrance.

Acqua di Parma Yellow Café is more than a destination; it’s an experience that blends luxury, culture, and the art of living. It stands as a beacon of Italian elegance, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in an atmosphere where every detail is curated to perfection.

Sign up for our newsletter for inspiration, exclusive previews & luxury tips