As many of you are aware, raccoons are not native to this country. So, if you wish to go see these awesome animals IRL, Blind Alley is the place to go to. Located near Sookmyung Women’s Universtiy, Blind Alley is the designated ‘raccoon café’ in the area. Before you head in, just remember to check all the information provided. The café itself is divided into 2 areas: the ‘raccoons’ room’ and the café. If you order something from the café, you will be given free entrance into the ‘raccoons’ room’, but for those who are visiting with the sole purpose of chilling with the raccoons, you will be required to pay a fee of 6,000 won. There are 3 raccoons in the café (along with a Welsh Corgi that roams around the café area). Upon entering the ‘raccoons’ room’, you will be handed some feed, which any one of the racccons will excitedly run towards (you can leave the feed on your palm). Don’t force these adorable furballs into your lap, though, because it could cost you a bite.
Interestingly enough, Blind Alley wasn’t originally founded as a ‘raccoon café’. The owner first adopted ‘Kongy’ and ‘Milk’ when they were just raccoon puppies. She didn’t like the idea of leaving them alone at home while she worked and decided to bring them along to the café every day. That’s how Blind Alley came to be today. ‘Milk’, the lighter colored raccoon, was fortunately rescued from becoming an expensive fur accessory. Each one of the three raccoons have a story of their own, which is why we should all acknowledge that this café isn’t a place to just come and enjoy yourself, but share your time and love with each raccoon. In the process, you will be able to let go of some of your stress as well.
Admittedly, Blind Alley’s main attraction is the raccoons. But the café serves up its own specialties that are worth a try. From their sweet bean paste, gelato, ricotta cheese and yogurt, most of the ingredients that go into the desserts are made in-house each week. If you get your order to take out, it will be much cheaper than its original price but will not be receiving the free entrance to the ‘raccoons’ room’. And since it’s near Sookmyung Women’s Universtiy, students at the university will receive an extra 30% discount.