Kakao Riko
카카오리코
About
Chocolatier workshop near Sindaebang Station known for budget-friendly Dubai chewy cookies (dujjonku) and handcrafted chocolates.
Tucked into a quiet residential stretch between Sindaebang and Guro Digital Complex stations, Cacao Rico is easy to miss. There is no prominent exterior signboard—just a simple “Open” marker that signals you have arrived at the small, no-frills workshop. Inside, seating is nonexistent, with the compact space functioning purely as a pickup point and confectionary studio run by a dedicated chocolatier known locally for handmade truffles and fresh chocolates (*saeng-chocolate*). Recently, the shop has drawn steady neighborhood traffic for its version of the Dubai chewy cookie, locally dubbed *doujjonku*. Sized roughly like a ping-pong ball, each orb wraps a pistachio-laden, crunchy interior in an exceptionally thin marshmallow skin. Unlike the thick, doughy shells found elsewhere, the casing here yields almost immediately to the center, where studded bits of pistachio provide a nutty, crisp crunch. The sweetness leans slightly forward, carrying hints of white chocolate beneath the nutty core. To unlock the intended texture—especially in colder weather when the filling can set firm—a brief flash in the microwave for five to ten seconds softens the marshmallow into a warm, gentle pull without collapsing the crisp filling inside. Pair the richness with a glass of dry red wine to cut through the sugar. While hyper-trendy confections often command steep markups and strict purchase rationing, Cacao Rico keeps things accessible. Each piece sells for an approachable 4,500 won, and customers can typically pre-order larger batches via phone or text message for evening pickup, making it a reliable refuge from the usual pastry-drop rush. For those tracking down Dubai-style treats without the hassle of long queues or inflated bakery tabs, this quiet Dongjak workshop delivers satisfying, handcrafted sweets straight to go.
Menu
- Dubai Chewy Cookie₩4,500
- 녹차초코빙수₩12,900
Local tips
- Reserve pickup in advance via phone or text to ensure availability.
- Microwave cold cookies for 5-10 seconds to soften the marshmallow layer before eating.
- Takeout only with no dine-in seating area available.
- The shop does not have a prominent outdoor signboard, so look out for the 'open' sign.
Details
- Sindaebang Station
Opening hours
- Sunday
- 11:30–22:00
- Monday
- 11:30–22:00
- Tuesday
- 14:00–22:00
- Wednesday
- 11:30–22:00
- Thursday
- 11:30–22:00
- Friday
- 11:30–22:00
- Saturday
- 11:30–22:00