If you’ve ever traveled to Asia and stepped into a McDonald’s or KFC, you’ve probably noticed something: the menus, presentation, and overall vibe are on another level.
And now, it looks like Tim Hortons has joined that list too.
We recently stumbled upon Tim Hortons Korea’s Instagram page, and it’s safe to say, the Canadian coffee chain has never looked this good.
@longlivehk The Tim Horton’s in Korea CANNOT be compared to the ones back in Canada, this a whole different brand😭 There’s many branches in the city of Seoul and some in the surrounding cities too ! This Tim’s is by the Seoulleung station but I’ve also been inside the Sinsa station as well and they’re both stunning😩 #timhortons #foodvlog #foodreview #seoullife #livinginkorea ♬ Toy shop – PonPieHi
Tim Hortons Korea opened its first location in December 2023, and according to Canadian creators who’ve visited, the brand’s Korean outposts are not just coffee stops, they’re upscale and semi-boujee cafes.
Drinks come in glass cups, food is plated for dine-in, and the interiors are sleek and modern.
Some local locations have been renovated (like the Metrotown one) to fit with the times, but many are still stuck in that 2000s decor.
@james.bok I get the hype. Take my money #timhortons #koreanfood #koreatrip #foodreview #seoul #koreafood #foodtravel ♬ One More Last Time – sped up – Henry Young & Ashley Alisha
The various creators found that food prices are also noticeably higher than what you’d find here in Canada, which adds to its reputation as a more premium brand overseas.
Part of its Fall “Maple Festa” release includes the cutest Timbit concept ever: tiny doughnuts decorated to look like acorns.
It’s simple, it’s brilliant, and yes, we wish this existed here.
They’ve also launched a city-themed campaign featuring Toronto, complete with a limited-edition Red Velvet Peanut Praline Latte.
The drink features a red velvet foam layer dusted with a maple leaf design on top, perfectly blending Korean cafe artistry with a nod to Canadian roots.
And of course, Tim Hortons Korea brought in star power to match. Their brand ambassador?
Mark Lee from NCT, who just so happens to be Canadian.
While Tim Hortons may not make as many waves abroad as other North American exports, it’s clear that the Korean team knows how to blend innovation, design, and cultural flair.
Maybe it’s time we start importing some of their creativity back home.