Daechungmaru is a popular restaurant located in Sokcho, well-known even among locals. Housed in a traditional hanok building, it offers a quintessential Korean ambiance.
The restaurant is renowned for its tofu dishes, with the tofu here made using seawater instead of the usual sea salt, lending it a unique flavor and aroma. Signature dishes include fresh tofu stew, spicy tofu stew, and tofu stew with sesame and mushrooms. Additionally, they serve various other dishes such as grilled dried pollack.
Using locally sourced ingredients, Daechungmaru prides itself on offering fresh and delicious cuisine, attracting both tourists visiting Sokcho and locals alike. It’s particularly recommended for those seeking authentic Korean cuisine.
On a day before the weather turned chilly, I had the fortunate opportunity to visit Sokcho.
I chose to take the scenic route along the national highway, enjoying the autumn ambiance of Seoraksan, instead of the Seoul-Yangyang expressway.
Passing through Misiryeong Tunnel and entering Sokcho, I encountered the feeling of a local favorite spot for breakfast, which was Daechungmaru.
🌈 Exterior of the Building
The entrance exuded a splendid atmosphere, reminiscent of a traditional Korean house (hanok).
It seemed suitable for foreigners and elders alike, as well as those seeking a place to dine after touring nearby Seoraksan.
🌈 Location of Daechungmaru
Located conveniently before entering Sokcho, just after crossing Misiryeong Tunnel, it’s surrounded by accommodations for visitors to Seoraksan National Park, making it an ideal spot for breakfast in Sokcho.
It’s within a 10 to 30-minute distance from Sokcho Central Market, Dongmyeong Port, and Jangsa Port, allowing easy access to the sea.
🌈 Ample Parking Space
The spacious parking area is a plus.
🌈 Using Fresh Tofu from Chodang
The tofu, made with seawater instead of sea salt, boasts a distinctive nutty flavor and depth, surpassing tofu from other regions.
🌈 Menu
The menu offers a variety of dishes such as fresh tofu stew, spicy tofu stew, and tofu hot pot, among others.
Known more among locals than tourists, Daechungmaru offers a diverse menu.
The seating includes both floor and table options, with a cozy atmosphere reminiscent of a traditional hanok.
A large seating area on the second floor can accommodate over 60 people.
🌈 Table Setting
I ordered a table setting with three dishes: grilled dried pollack, spicy tofu stew, and fresh tofu stew, representing the essence of Sokcho cuisine.
It felt rewarding to taste these dishes after a long journey from Seoul.
🌈 Grilled Dried Pollack
The dried pollack sourced from Yongdae-ri was crispy and well-seasoned, perfectly suiting my taste.
The addition of fresh clams from the East Sea enhanced the refreshing taste.
🌈 Bean Paste Soup
A dish I disliked in my childhood now brings back nostalgic flavors.
🌈 Grilled Tofu
The savory flavor of the tofu lingered in my mouth, highlighting its exceptional quality.
🌈 Soy Sauce Marinated Shrimp
The seasoning was just right, complementing the rice perfectly.
Colorful and flavorful side dishes such as seasoned bean sprouts and sweet and sour cucumber stimulated my palate.
The mountain vegetable side dish, whose name I didn’t catch, looked nutritious and appetizing when mixed with rice.
Korean-made tofu undoubtedly stands out for its rich flavor.
Daechungmaru is indeed a favorite spot among Sokcho locals for its delightful tofu dishes.
🌈 Kimchi
The kimchi is made in-house using domestically sourced ingredients.
🌈 Pollack Soup
A side dish that one would miss when visiting Sokcho, known for its delicious side dishes.
🌈 “No need to steal rice.”
The dried squid marinated in soy sauce tastes distinctly different from imported ones.
The crispy grilled dried pollack had a seasoning that deeply penetrated the fish, unlike superficially flavored varieties.
The plain tofu, made with seawater, offers a unique taste compared to commercially available tofu.
🧡 Bean Paste Soup
A dish I disliked in my childhood but now appreciate for its familiar taste.
Folding back: Daechungmaru, the perfect spot for breakfast in Sokcho, where locals enjoy their favorite dishes.
✔ With ample parking space, you can comfortably enjoy the delicious rice dishes of Sokcho for breakfast.
✔ Spicy tofu stew, fresh tofu stew, and grilled dried pollack are indispensable menu items that tantalized my taste buds.
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