Gangneung Jungang Market Food Guide: Must-Try Dakgangjeong, Squid Sundae, and More

Gangneung Jungang Market is a vibrant tourist destination bustling with various food options and crowds, making it a must-visit during trips to Gangwon-do and Gangneung. Local bloggers frequently highlight popular items such as Baeni Dakgangjeong (sweet and sour fried chicken), Ojingeo Sundae (stuffed squid sausage), and Gilgamja (fried potatoes) as essential market eats. Many visitors choose to buy food for takeout to enjoy comfortably at their accommodation or as street snacks while exploring the market.

The market offers a wide array of culinary experiences, including Baeni Dakgangjeong, Samchojeon (pancake stall), Hwedorak Hoetjip (sashimi restaurant), Daegesipeosi (crab specialty), handmade fish cake croquettes, Oki Tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes), Ihwa Guksu (noodle shop), Mandong Jekwa (bakery), Wonjo Somunnan Muchimhoe (spicy raw seafood salad), Gangneung Gilgamja, and Ojingeo Sundae Nara. Baeni Dakgangjeong is particularly popular, often drawing long queues. The spicy raw squid salad with flat dumplings offers a refreshing sweet and sour kick, while the squid sundae is cherished for its chewy texture and savory filling. Gangneung Gilgamja, with its crispy fried potatoes and spicy buldak mayo sauce, is noted for its addictive flavor.

Bloggers often mention using the Jungang Market No. 1 Public Parking Lot, which offers one hour of free parking or free parking on public holidays. Many recommend purchasing food from the market to enjoy back at their lodging or as convenient street food. Mandong Jekwa's garlic baguette and the handmade fish cake croquettes are frequently cited as essential purchases during a visit to Gangneung, alongside Oki Tteokbokki's rich gochujang-based tteokbokki.