Gangneung’s East Coast Culinary Journey
Gangneung, located along Korea’s stunning east coast, is a paradise for seafood lovers and those seeking authentic Korean flavors. With its pristine beaches, bustling seafood markets, and unique local dishes, it’s the perfect place to experience Korea’s rich culinary traditions. If you’re planning a trip, make sure to apply for KETA, which allows for smooth and convenient entry into Korea, so you can fully enjoy the flavors of Gangneung’s coastline.
1. Jumunjin Fish Market – The Freshest Seafood Experience
One of the best ways to experience Gangneung’s local food scene is by visiting Jumunjin Fish Market, the largest seafood market on Korea’s east coast. Here, you can taste freshly caught seafood, prepared on the spot by local vendors.
Must-Try Dishes
✔ Raw Fish (Hwae, 회) – Freshly sliced raw fish, served with a spicy gochujang-based sauce and vegetables.
✔ Grilled Squid (Ojingeo Gui, 오징어 구이) – Locally caught squid, grilled to perfection with a savory and slightly sweet glaze.
✔ Seafood Stew (Haemultang, 해물탕) – A rich and spicy stew filled with an assortment of seafood, including crab, shrimp, and shellfish.
✔ Abalone Porridge (Jeonbokjuk, 전복죽) – A nourishing and flavorful porridge made with fresh abalone, a regional specialty.
📍 Location: Jumunjin, Gangneung
📅 Best Time to Visit: Morning for the freshest seafood selection
2. Anmok Coffee Street – Korea’s Coffee Capital by the Sea
Gangneung is widely regarded as Korea’s coffee capital, and Anmok Coffee Street is the best place to experience its renowned café culture. Overlooking the East Sea, this stretch of seaside cafés offers breathtaking ocean views with every sip.
Best Experiences
✔ Enjoy a hand-dripped coffee while watching the waves crash onto the shore.
✔ Visit the Gangneung Coffee Museum to learn about Korea’s coffee-making traditions.
✔ Try bamboo salt coffee, a unique regional specialty known for its rich and slightly salty flavor.
✔ Stroll along the Anmok Beach boardwalk and explore a variety of artisan roasters.
📍 Location: Anmok Beach, Gangneung
📅 Best Time to Visit: Late afternoon for a perfect sunset coffee experience
3. Chodang Sundubu Village – Soft Tofu Like Nowhere Else
Chodang Sundubu (초당 순두부) is Gangneung’s most famous dish, made using natural seawater instead of artificial coagulants, resulting in an incredibly soft and silky texture. Chodang Sundubu Village is filled with restaurants serving different variations of this delicate tofu dish.
Best Ways to Enjoy Chodang Sundubu
✔ Traditional Sundubu Jjigae (순두부찌개) – A spicy tofu stew made with fresh seafood or beef.
✔ Cold Sundubu (초당 냉두부) – Soft tofu served chilled, drizzled with sesame oil and soy sauce.
✔ Sundubu Bibimbap (순두부 비빔밥) – A healthy twist on bibimbap, with fresh tofu replacing rice.
✔ Sundubu Pancakes (순두부전) – Crispy and savory pancakes made with soft tofu batter.
📍 Location: Chodang, Gangneung
📅 Best Time to Visit: Breakfast or lunch for the freshest tofu dishes
4. Gangneung Central Market – A Taste of Local Street Food
For an authentic local experience, Gangneung Central Market is the place to go. This traditional market is packed with food stalls offering some of the best street food in the region.
Must-Try Street Food
✔ Dak Gangjeong (닭강정) – Sweet and crispy fried chicken, coated in a sticky red pepper glaze.
✔ Hotteok (호떡) – Korean-style stuffed pancakes filled with brown sugar and nuts.
✔ Ojingeo Sundae (오징어 순대) – Squid stuffed with a mixture of vegetables and glass noodles, a unique local delicacy.
✔ Gamja Twigim (감자튀김) – Deep-fried potatoes served on skewers, a popular snack in the region.
📍 Location: Gangneung Central Market
📅 Best Time to Visit: Late afternoon or evening for the liveliest atmosphere
5. Gyeongpo Beach – Fresh Seafood with a View
If you want to enjoy your meal with an ocean breeze, Gyeongpo Beach is the perfect dining spot. Lined with seafood restaurants and outdoor barbecue spots, this beachside destination offers an unforgettable dining experience.
Best Experiences
✔ Have a grilled seafood barbecue while enjoying the sound of crashing waves.
✔ Try Jangeo Gui (장어구이), grilled eel known for its rich and smoky flavor.
✔ Enjoy Makgeolli (막걸리) with freshly caught seafood for an authentic local experience.
✔ Take a leisurely walk along the Gyeongpo Lake trail after your meal.
📍 Location: Gyeongpo Beach, Gangneung
📅 Best Time to Visit: Evening for the best seaside dining experience
Experience the Best of Gangneung’s Culinary Delights
Gangneung’s east coast is a paradise for food lovers, offering a mix of fresh seafood, rich flavors, and scenic dining spots. Whether you’re enjoying a spicy seafood stew at a bustling market or sipping locally brewed coffee by the beach, this city provides an unforgettable culinary experience.
For a smooth and hassle-free trip, apply for KETA in advance. ETAPORTAL makes the process easy and convenient, while also providing extensive information on Korea’s diverse regions and travel experiences. Plan your journey and discover the best of Korean cuisine along the beautiful east coast!
