Real Ade in Myeongdong: Fresh-Squeezed Lemonade and Grapefruit Ade, Cash Only
Walk through the streets of Myeongdong and you'll come across a stall called Real Ade, where lemon and grapefruit are squeezed fresh right in front of you. Both the lemonade and grapefruit ade cost ₩6,000, and the moment you order, the vendor juices the fruit on the spot with a dedicated press. One thing to know before you go: cards and mobile pay aren't accepted here — it's cash only, so keep some on hand.
What is the Real Ade stand in Myeongdong?
Real Ade is a street stall in Myeongdong selling lemonade and grapefruit ade. The counter is piled with fresh lemons and grapefruits, and each drink is juiced to order right there on the spot. There are no added ingredients — just the fruit itself — so it's a lighter option if you're watching what you drink while sightseeing.
The squeezed peels get left out on the stall counter after each drink, which means you can smell the citrus before you even see the stand — bright, sharp, and impossible to walk past without noticing. Before we get to how it tastes, let's start with the price.
How much do the lemonade and grapefruit ade cost?
Here's the pricing at a glance.
| Drink | Price | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Lemonade | ₩6,000 | Fresh-squeezed, carbonated, tart and sweet |
| Grapefruit Ade | ₩6,000 | Fresh-squeezed, carbonated, bitter and tangy |
Neither drink has any caffeine, so they're an easy pick even if you're avoiding it. Now, about that fresh-squeezed process — here's what it actually looks like.
Is it really squeezed fresh on the spot?
Yes — order either the lemonade or the grapefruit ade, and the vendor juices fresh lemons or grapefruits right in front of you using a dedicated press. If you want the freshest possible version of the drink, with the fruit's actual aroma still in it, this is worth trying. What stood out most was the speed: after ordering a lemonade myself, I had it in my hand within a minute.
How do you pay?
Cards and mobile pay aren't accepted — it's cash only. Grab some cash before you head out to explore Myeongdong so you're not caught without it here.
Lemonade or grapefruit ade — which one should you get?
Between the two, I lean toward lemon over grapefruit, so I picked up a lemonade. Loaded with ice, it had that sharp, fizzy tartness that hits just right on a hot day. Lemon is also rich in vitamin C and limonoids, an antioxidant compound — worth knowing if you're looking for a little pick-me-up after a long day of walking around.
Korea is deep into its hottest stretch of summer right now, so if you're out walking the streets of Myeongdong and need to cool off, this is a solid pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much is the lemonade and grapefruit ade at Real Ade in Myeongdong?
Both drinks cost ₩6,000. Each one is squeezed fresh from lemons or grapefruits the moment you order.
Can I pay by card or mobile pay?
No. The stall only accepts cash — cards and mobile pay aren't an option, so bring cash with you.
How long does it take to get your drink?
About a minute. Even though it's squeezed fresh in front of you, the stall moves fast.
Does the drink contain caffeine?
No, there's no caffeine at all. It's a natural fruit drink with no added ingredients, so it's fine even if you're avoiding caffeine.
Should I get the lemonade or the grapefruit ade?
It comes down to taste. The lemonade is tart and sweet with a fizzy kick, while the grapefruit ade balances a slightly bitter edge with its own tanginess.
Curious about more street food and stalls around Myeongdong? Check out our other local StreetFood picks for what else to try nearby.
