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Cheongju’s Ojang Dang: Why Locals Rave About Its Legendary Kkwabaegi, Goroke, and Jjolmyeon

Nestled in the heart of Cheongju, a hidden culinary gem named Ojang Dang has been capturing the hearts (and stomachs) of locals and curious foodies alike. This isn’t just any eatery; it’s a bustling hub where traditional Korean street food reaches new heights, often selling out its most coveted items well before closing time. If you’re planning a trip to Cheongju, a visit to Ojang Dang for its distinctive Kkwabaegi (twisted donuts), Goroke (croquettes), and Jjolmyeon (spicy cold noodles) is an absolute must – but be warned, you’ll need to arrive early!

The Unrivaled Popularity of Ojang Dang

Ojang Dang isn’t famous for fancy dining; it’s celebrated for its authentic, soul-satisfying flavors that evoke a sense of nostalgia. People don’t just visit; they flock, often forming lines that signify the extraordinary demand for its offerings. The restaurant is so popular that even by mid-afternoon, finding your desired item can be a challenge. Our recent visit, for instance, saw Kkwabaegi, Goroke, and even Jjolmyeon completely sold out by 4:13 PM, despite the shop’s closing time being 7:30 PM (last order). This level of demand is a testament to the quality and unique taste that Ojang Dang consistently delivers.

A Taste of Tradition: Ojang Dang’s Signature Delights

The Elusive Kkwabaegi (Twisted Donut)

The Kkwabaegi at Ojang Dang is not your average twisted donut. What makes it stand out is its unique texture: a delightful crunch from a thin layer of breadcrumbs on the outside, giving way to a wonderfully soft and chewy interior thanks to well-fermented dough. These are also notably longer than typical Kkwabaegi, a unique twist (pun intended!) by the owner. Customers describe it as a taste that transports them back to their childhood, a true comfort food that embodies the “crispy outside, soft inside” perfection. Its incredible popularity means securing one requires an early bird approach.

The Perfect Pairing: Crispy Goroke (Croquette)

Another item that flies off the shelves is Ojang Dang’s Goroke. These aren’t just fried potato balls; they are meticulously handmade with a generous filling of fresh cabbage, onions, carrots, and pork. The secret to their superior taste lies in the high-quality ingredients, including premium milk and eggs, carefully selected by the owner’s discerning husband. The exterior is incredibly crispy due to its breadcrumb coating, while the thin dough encases a sweet, savory, and surprisingly crunchy vegetable and pork filling. It’s particularly recommended as a perfect counterpoint to the spicy Jjolmyeon, creating a harmonious flavor combination that is simply irresistible.

Spicy & Satisfying Jjolmyeon (Spicy Cold Noodles)

While Kkwabaegi and Goroke might be the crowd-pullers, Ojang Dang’s Jjolmyeon is equally impressive. Known for its clean, tangy, and subtly spicy flavor profile, it offers a refreshing kick. The noodles themselves are notably thinner than those found in other Jjolmyeon dishes, providing a delicate yet satisfying chew. Many rave about its well-balanced taste, which is both more sour and slightly spicier than typical versions. This makes it an ideal companion to the rich and crispy Goroke, creating a textural and flavor contrast that is simply addictive.

Homestyle Mandu (Dumplings)

Beyond the main stars, Ojang Dang also serves up traditional Mandu that harken back to simpler times. These handmade dumplings boast a straightforward, pork-only filling – no vermicelli or excessive vegetables to distract from the pure meat flavor. Unlike modern, overly savory or artificially umami-rich commercial dumplings, Ojang Dang’s Mandu offer a comforting, rustic taste reminiscent of old-school street food. The tender, chewy wrapper and the honest, meaty filling provide a nostalgic experience that many Koreans cherish.

Plan Your Visit: Tips for a Successful Ojang Dang Experience

• Arrive Early: This is the golden rule. To avoid disappointment, especially for Kkwabaegi and Goroke, plan to visit in the morning or early afternoon. The earlier, the better!
• Try the Combinations: Don’t just pick one! The Goroke and Jjolmyeon together are a legendary pairing that offers a perfect balance of spicy, savory, and refreshing flavors.
• Be Prepared for Sold-Out Items: While frustrating, it’s a sign of their popularity. If your first choice is gone, embrace the opportunity to try other equally delicious items.

Ojang Dang in Cheongju is more than just a restaurant; it’s a culinary experience steeped in tradition and beloved by its community. Its high rating comes not from Michelin stars, but from the constant stream of satisfied customers and the almost mythical status of its quickly sold-out delicacies. Make sure to put Ojang Dang on your Cheongju itinerary and savor a true taste of Korean comfort food – if you can get your hands on it!