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Discover Gangneung’s Hidden Culinary Gems: A Foodie’s Guide to Must-Visit Restaurants

Gangneung, a charming coastal city in South Korea, is not only famous for its stunning beaches and serene landscapes but also for its vibrant food scene. Recently featured on a popular Korean food show, we’re diving into the must-visit restaurants in Gangneung that promise an unforgettable culinary experience. Get ready to explore local favorites and hidden gems that even the locals rave about!

Must-Try Dishes and Where to Find Them in Gangneung

Our gastronomic journey begins with a quest to find the authentic flavors of Gangneung. The show’s hosts were on a mission to uncover the true 맛집 (delicious restaurants), and they certainly succeeded. Let’s take a closer look at the highlights:

1. Janghan Fish Restaurant: The Undisputed King of Gajami Mulhoe

First stop, Janghan Fish Restaurant (장한 횟집), lauded as the number one spot in Gangneung for Gajami Mulhoe (가자미 물회), a refreshing raw flounder soup. This isn’t your typical Mulhoe – it’s a carefully crafted dish with a deep, flavorful broth that hints at fruit and a savory richness unlike anything else.

What makes Janghan Fish Restaurant special?

• Exceptional Gajami Mulhoe: The flounder is incredibly fresh and 고소하다 (savory and nutty), with a soft texture and no bothersome bones. The broth is a secret recipe, offering a complex flavor profile beyond just spicy and sour.
• Generous Side Dishes: Even ordering just one Mulhoe brings a table full of 반찬 (side dishes). Notably, their Ureok Miyeokguk (우럭 미역국 – Rockfish Seaweed Soup) is so delicious, people often order extra to take home. It’s rich, deep, and tastes like the ocean itself, far surpassing typical restaurant seaweed soups.

Location: [Please insert actual address if available from further search, as it’s not explicitly given in the text, or general area within Gangneung]

General Rating: Highly Recommended (Based on text, implied as No.1 for Gajami Mulhoe in Gangneung)

2. Budnamu Brewery: Craft Beer and Gourmet Pizza in a Unique Setting

Next, we venture into the world of craft beer and artisanal pizza at Budnamu Brewery (버드나무 브루어리). This isn’t your average pub; it’s a Yangjo-jang (양조장 – brewery) that locally produces unique beers and serves up incredible food, including their famous Songgo Mushroom Pizza (송고 버섯 피자).

Why Budnamu Brewery is a must-visit:

• Minori Session Beer: Try their signature Minori Session (미노리 세션), a beer made with local Gangneung rice, offering a smooth and flavorful experience. It perfectly complements their food.
• Songgo Mushroom Pizza: Forget truffle – the Songgo Mushroom Pizza (송고 버섯 피자) is the star here. Made with 송고 (Songgo) mushrooms, a type similar to truffle but locally sourced from Daegwallyeong, the pizza is bursting with fresh, earthy flavors. The crust is thin and crispy, topped with a generous amount of fresh cheese.
• Unique Atmosphere: Located in what seems like a traditional Korean house or area, it offers a unique and charming dining experience, different from typical pizza or beer joints.

Location: [Please insert actual address if available from further search, as it’s not explicitly given in the text, or general area within Gangneung]

General Rating: Highly Recommended (Local’s favorite spot to bring friends)

3. Yet Kanaria: A Taste of Traditional Gangneung with Daegu Meori Jjim

For a taste of authentic, traditional Gangneung cuisine, Yet Kanaria (옛카나리아) is the place to be. This restaurant specializes in Daegu Meori Jjim (대구머리찜 – Cod Head Stew), a dish that might sound unusual but is a beloved local delicacy.

What to expect at Yet Kanaria:

• Daegu Meori Jjim Excellence: Don’t be intimidated by “cod head” – this dish is packed with surprisingly meaty and tender cod head pieces, cooked in a flavorful, slightly spicy stew with generous amounts of bean sprouts and tofu. It’s a hearty and satisfying meal, perfect for experiencing traditional Gangneung flavors.
• Hearty Portions and Flavor: The Daegu Meori Jjim is served in a large portion, with plenty of fish meat, bean sprouts, and tofu. The sauce is described as refreshing and 개운하다 (clean and invigorating), enhancing the natural sweetness of the cod.
• Nostalgic Ambiance: Yet Kanaria offers a taste of “old Gangneung,” providing a nostalgic and comforting dining experience. It feels like stepping back in time to enjoy genuinely traditional home-style cooking.

Location: [Please insert actual address if available from further search, as it’s not explicitly given in the text, or general area within Gangneung]

General Rating: Highly Recommended (Considered a traditional Gangneung 맛집)

Explore Gangneung’s Culinary Scene

Gangneung’s food scene is diverse and exciting, offering everything from fresh seafood and traditional stews to craft beers and gourmet pizzas. These three restaurants, highlighted on the TV show, are just the beginning of your culinary adventure in Gangneung. So, plan your trip, come hungry, and discover the 맛 (taste) of Gangneung for yourself!

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