Donghwa Garden Gangneung Review 2026: Spicy Soft Tofu

Despite visiting the scenic coastal city of Gangneung several times, I had never truly experienced its most famous culinary masterpiece: authentic, freshly made Chodang soft tofu.

On my most recent trip, I decided it was time to do it right. After a bit of research, one name kept popping up as the undisputed champion of spicy tofu stew. If you want the absolute best, there is simply no competing with this legendary spot.

Let me introduce you to the mind-blowing, smoky flavors of the famous Donghwa Garden.

Donghwa Garden (Gangneung Jjamppong Sundubu Main Branch)

15 Chodangsunbubu-gil 77beon-gil, Gangneung-si, Gangwon-do

Operating Hours:

Daily 07:00 AM - 07:30 PM

Break Time: 04:00 PM - 05:00 PM

Last Order: 06:55 PM

How to Find Donghwa Garden

Donghwa Garden is located right in the heart of Chodang Soft Tofu Village, very close to the Chodang-dong Community Center. There is plenty of parking on-site, but if you are traveling without a car like I was, it is incredibly easy to reach by local bus. Plus, it is just a short distance from popular local attractions like the Heo Gyun Heo Nanseolheon Memorial Park and the immersive Arte Museum, making it the perfect lunch or dinner stop after sightseeing.

I arrived at around 5:20 PM, just 20 minutes after the afternoon break ended, and there was already a line! While weekday lunch and dinner times are relatively quiet, you should definitely expect a wait of 30 minutes or more on Friday evenings and weekends.

Pro Tip: Donghwa Garden uses the "Tabling" app for remote queuing. I highly recommend downloading and registering on the app before you arrive so you can secure a spot in the virtual line on your way there.

As you walk up to the entrance, you will see a collection of Blue Ribbon Survey stickers (Korea's equivalent of the Michelin Guide) along with various media accolades. This alone tells you everything you need to know about the quality of this place.

The interior walls are lined with even more awards and certificates of appreciation.

Even Huh Young-man, one of Korea’s most respected food critics and comic artists, has dined here. Seeing his autograph inspired me to keep hunting for the absolute best local eats!

Inside the Restaurant

Once inside, I was pleased to see that they have plenty of two-person tables alongside the larger four-person setups. If you are traveling solo, you do not have to feel self-conscious about taking up space. As soon as I was seated, I immediately ordered a bowl of their signature Spicy Jjamppong Soft Tofu.

The dining space stretches deep into the building and is remarkably spacious. Knowing how large this restaurant is makes you realize just how massive their daily crowds must be to consistently trigger long wait times!

The Menu

It is funny, but I think this is the first time I have actually looked at the menu *after* ordering! The legendary "Wonjo Jjamsun" (Original Spicy Jjamppong Soft Tofu) is priced at ~$10. They also offer Cheonggukjang (rich fermented soybean paste stew, minimum 2 orders) for ~$8 per person, alongside plain soft tofu (Chodubu), spicy soft tofu, and firm tofu (Modubu).

With the exception of the squid, every single ingredient used here—including the soybeans, kimchi, and red pepper flakes—is locally sourced from Korea. It is reassuring to know you are eating high-quality, local produce.

As an absolute tofu lover, I cannot believe I waited this long to try Chodang tofu in Gangneung. I have officially sworn to eat this at least once a day on my next trip!

Finally, my highly anticipated bowl of Spicy Jjamppong Soft Tofu arrived. The side dishes are simple, but they are just there to support the main star of the show.

The moment I tasted the first spoonful of broth, I was absolutely stunned. The intense, smoky "wok-hei" (fire flavor) hit my palate immediately. It was incredible.

It tasted like it came straight from a high-end Chinese restaurant famous for its wok-fried jjamppong. Any preconceived notion I had that "all soft tofu stews taste the same" was completely shattered in an instant.

Even looking back at the photos now, I can still taste that legendary broth. There is a very good reason why everyone tells you to eat this when you visit Gangneung.

I really wanted to order a side of their firm house-made tofu (Modubu) as well, but I was simply too full to manage it. If you are visiting with a partner or a group, I highly recommend ordering a half-portion of Modubu to share on the side.

To wrap up the ultimate culinary experience, head right across the courtyard to Cafe Donghwa for a scoop of their famous soft tofu gelato. It is the perfect sweet and creamy contrast to the spicy meal.

If you are heading to Gangneung, Donghwa Garden is an absolute must-visit. Despite its fiery red appearance, the soup is not overwhelmingly spicy—it is just slightly spicier and richer than standard Shin Ramyun, with a deep, smoky depth. Don't forget to check the Tabling app before you go to avoid waiting in long lines!