Gangneung, a seaside city in Gangwon Province, South Korea, is a foodie's paradise waiting to be appreciated. This appealing destination mixes coastal living with a rich food heritage. Located between the East Sea and the Taebaek Mountains, Gangneung's varied landscape shapes its local cuisine.

The city gained global recognition when it hosted events for the 2018 Winter Olympics, leading to major upgrades in its facilities. Now, Gangneung is recognized for its stunning shores, lively art community, and growing café culture that's earned it the title "Coffee City."

• Gangneung combines traditional Korean food with a modern coffee scene
• The coastal setting provides easy access to fresh seafood and regional dishes
• Affordable eating options are abundant, from street vendors to local markets

What makes Gangneung's food stand out

Gangneung's food scene is an appealing mix of classic Korean dishes and new creations. The city's location by the sea means fresh seafood features prominently in many local meals. From casual street vendors to upscale dining spots, there's something for every taste and wallet.

A famous local dish is chodang sundubu, a smooth soft tofu that originated in the Chodang area. The tofu is crafted using seawater, resulting in a flavor that's unique to this region.

Another popular choice is dakgangjeong, a crunchy fried chicken coated with a sweet and spicy glaze. You'll spot different versions of this snack around the city, each with its own special touch.

Noodle fans should try makguksu. These buckwheat noodles are usually served cold with a zesty sauce, ideal for warm summer days.

Where's the best place for street food

Gangneung's street food is varied and lively. A great starting point for your food adventure is the Gangneung Central Market. Here, you'll find a wide selection of traditional Korean snacks and meals at reasonable prices.

Some street foods you shouldn't miss:

• Odeng (fish cake skewers)
• Tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes)
• Hotteok (sweet pancakes with brown sugar and nuts)
• Bungeoppang (fish-shaped pastries filled with sweet red bean paste)

Make sure to sample the local pajeon (green onion pancake) - it's especially tasty on rainy days!

What about seafood options

Given its coastal spot, Gangneung is ideal for seafood enthusiasts. The Jumunjin Fish Market is the go-to place for the day's freshest catch. You can pick your seafood and have it cooked right away at one of the nearby eateries.

Some local seafood dishes to sample:

• Ojingeo sundae (stuffed squid)
• Hoe (Korean-style sashimi)
• Mulhoe (spicy raw fish soup)
• Grilled mackerel

For a special experience, visit during the Gangneung Seafood Festival, where you can taste various seafood dishes and join in fun activities.

What's the coffee scene like in Coffee City

Gangneung's coffee culture is so well-known that it's nicknamed "Coffee City." The yearly Gangneung Coffee Festival celebrates this love for coffee, featuring barista contests, coffee tastings, and workshops.

For a one-of-a-kind coffee experience, go to Anmok Beach. This stretch of coast is lined with cafes, each offering amazing ocean views with their brews.

Some popular spots include:

• Terarosa Coffee
• Bohemian Roasters
• Santorini Cafe

Don't forget to try a cup of Chodang corn coffee, a local specialty made from sweet Chodang corn.

Are there affordable places to eat

Gangneung has plenty of options for cost-conscious travelers. Here are some budget-friendly eating ideas:

1. Kimbap restaurants: These casual spots serve rolled rice dishes and other simple Korean food at very affordable prices.
2. University area: The streets near Gangneung-Wonju National University are full of cheap eateries catering to students.
3. Convenience store meals: Korean convenience stores offer a range of ready-to-eat meals that are both inexpensive and tasty.
4. Local markets: Places like Gangneung Central Market and Jumunjin Fish Market offer fresh, affordable food choices.
5. Street food: As mentioned earlier, street food is a great way to try local flavors without spending too much.

What are some unique food experiences

For a memorable food adventure in Gangneung, consider these special experiences:

1. Sundubu alley: Visit the famous sundubu alley in Chodang-dong to try different types of the silky soft tofu dish.
2. Cooking classes: Some local restaurants and cultural centers offer cooking lessons where you can learn to make traditional Korean dishes.
3. Tea houses: Experience traditional Korean tea culture at one of Gangneung's charming tea houses.
4. Brewery tours: Visit local breweries like Gangneung Brewery to learn about and taste traditional Korean alcoholic drinks.
5. Farm visits: Some local farms offer tours and tasting experiences, allowing you to sample fresh produce and learn about local farming.

What should I know about eating customs

When eating in Gangneung, it's good to know some basic Korean dining customs:

• Wait for the oldest person at the table to start eating before you begin.
• Use chopsticks and a spoon for eating, never your hands.
• Don't put your chopsticks upright in your rice - this looks like funeral rituals.
• It's polite to pour drinks for others, especially older people, before filling your own glass.
• Slurping noodles is okay and even encouraged!

Remember, these are general guidelines. Locals are usually understanding if you're not familiar with all the customs.

What food gifts can I bring home

Gangneung offers several food-related souvenirs that make great gifts or keepsakes:

• Packaged sundubu (soft tofu)
• Local coffee beans
• Gangneung Sacheon (traditional Korean cookies)
• Hwangtae (dried pollack)
• Local teas or tea sets

Many of these can be found at the Gangneung Central Market or specialty shops around the city.

FAQs

When's the best time to visit Gangneung for food lovers?

While Gangneung is a year-round food destination, the best time to visit depends on what you like. Summer (June to August) is great for seafood and eating by the beach, while the Gangneung Coffee Festival in October is perfect for coffee fans. Spring (April to May) has nice weather for outdoor eating and food markets.

Can I find vegetarian or vegan food in Gangneung

While traditional Korean food often includes meat or fish, vegetarian and vegan options are becoming more common in Gangneung. Many Buddhist temple restaurants offer vegetarian meals, and some modern cafes cater to plant-based diets. It's a good idea to check with restaurants beforehand or look for specific vegetarian/vegan eateries.

How spicy is the food in Gangneung

The spiciness of Gangneung's food can vary a lot. Some dishes, like tteokbokki, can be quite hot, while others are mild. If you're worried about spice levels, you can always ask for less spicy versions of dishes or choose non-spicy options. Many restaurants are happy to adjust to different spice preferences.