🍜 Donghae Makguksu Branch in Yangyang – A Local Favorite for Authentic Buckwheat Noodles
When it comes to must-try food in Gangwon-do, Makguksu—cold buckwheat noodles—is always at the top of the list. And if your travels take you near Yangyang or Sokcho, there’s one spot that locals quietly rave about: the Donghae Makguksu Branch in Yangyang.
Though the main store may get more name recognition, many regulars (myself included!) swear by the branch. In fact, I’ve been coming here for over 10 years, and it’s still my go-to place for a quick but deeply satisfying meal.
📍 Convenient Location for Travelers
The branch is located on the way from Yangyang IC toward Sokcho, making it the perfect stop whether you’re heading to the beach, Daepo Port, or the nearby mountains.
- 🚗 Approx. 10 minutes from Yangyang IC
- 🚗 Approx. 15 minutes from Sokcho city
- 📍 Address: 2 Powol-witmal-gil, Yangyang-eup, Yangyang-gun, Gangwon-do
Its strategic location makes it a great choice for breakfast, brunch, or a light lunch, especially if you’re on a road trip through Gangwon Province.
⏰ Business Hours
- 🕘 Open: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM
- ❌ Closed: Every Monday
- ❄️ In winter: Closes early at 6:00 PM
Keep in mind the shorter winter hours if you’re planning an evening visit!
🥢 Menu Highlights & Prices
| Menu Item | Price |
|---|---|
| Mul Makguksu (Cold Broth) | ₩10,000 |
| Bibim Makguksu (Spicy) | ₩10,000 |
| Suyuk (Boiled Pork, 300g) | ₩30,000 |
The suyuk may seem a bit pricey, but it’s locally sourced Korean pork and comes perfectly tender. It pairs incredibly well with the noodles and is well worth sharing.
🍲 Why Locals Love It
- Mul Makguksu here has a rich and flavorful broth made from anchovy base, enhanced with perilla oil and soy-based seasoning. It delivers a nutty, slightly savory, and refreshing flavor that’s hard to forget.
- The noodles are chewy but soft, with just the right thickness to absorb the broth without getting soggy.
- If you’re more into spice, the Bibim Makguksu is generously mixed with a tangy and slightly sweet gochujang-based sauce.
- They even give you a side of broth with the spicy version, so you won’t miss out on the soup experience.
Pro tip: The portion size is generous, so unless you’re super hungry, there’s no need to order extra noodles. But if you must—sari (noodle refill) is available!
🥬 Side Dishes That Shine
Don’t overlook the side dishes. The standout here is the traditional Gangwon-style kimchi—also called chon kimchi. It’s rustic, bold, and a perfect match for the clean flavors of Makguksu.
In some seasons, they also serve homemade buckwheat dumplings (Memil Mandu) with silky-soft wrappers and flavorful filling that just melt in your mouth.
📸 Experience & Atmosphere
The restaurant has a casual and local feel, with quick service and plenty of seating. It’s not flashy, but that’s exactly why it feels authentic—the kind of place locals trust and tourists are happy to discover.
🛍️ Bonus Travel Tip
- 🛍️ If you’re visiting on a date ending in 4 or 9, don’t miss the Yangyang 5-Day Market nearby—it’s a great way to explore local life and try more street snacks.
- 🛣️ Located along the Seoul–Yangyang Expressway, it’s easy to access and a great midday stop on your Gangwon road trip.
💬 Final Thoughts
Whether you’re headed to Sokcho, passing through Yangyang, or just looking for a delicious, no-fuss local meal, the Donghae Makguksu Branch is absolutely worth a visit. It may not be the original, but many say it’s even better than the main store.
If you’re craving authentic Gangwon-do buckwheat noodles in a spot that’s easy to get to, hearty in portion, and rich in flavor—this is the place.
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