Cho Dang Gol

Nestled in the heart of Koreatown, Cho Dang Gol has been a staple of New York’s Korean dining scene since 1997. Known for its freshly made tofu, prepared in-house daily, this restaurant offers a taste of traditional Korean home cooking that has remained unchanged for decades. While New York is filled with modern Korean fusion spots, Cho Dang Gol stands out by staying true to its roots, serving rustic, comforting dishes that feel like a home-cooked meal.

The Story Behind Cho Dang Gol

Cho Dang Gol takes its name from Cho Dang, a coastal village in Korea famous for its tofu-making tradition. The restaurant was founded with the mission of bringing this centuries-old tofu craftsmanship to New York. Unlike many places that use pre-packaged tofu, Cho Dang Gol makes its own every morning using traditional methods, resulting in a silky texture and rich, nutty flavor. This dedication to authenticity has earned the restaurant a loyal following and recognition, including a Michelin Bib Gourmand designation for high-quality yet affordable dining.

Must-Try Dishes

1. Galbi Jjim (Braised Short Ribs) – A slow-cooked, deeply flavorful dish featuring tender beef short ribs, braised in a rich soy-based sauce with radish, carrots, and chestnuts. The meat falls off the bone, and the broth is packed with umami.

2. Dubu Duruchigi (Spicy Stir-Fried Tofu & Pork) – A rich and flavorful dish featuring pan-fried tofu soaked in a spicy, savory gochujang-based sauce, stir-fried with pork and vegetables.

3. Dumpling Jeongol (Dumpling & Kimchi Hot Pot) – A hearty Korean hot pot filled with homemade dumplings, aged kimchi, tofu, squid, pork, and fresh vegetables, simmered in a spicy broth.

4. Perilla Seed Soft Tofu Stew (Deulkkae Sundubu Jjigae) – A comforting variation of the classic sundubu jjigae, made with house-made soft tofu and nutty perilla seed powder, creating a creamy, earthy broth that’s both rich and soothing.

5. Tofu Bossam – A unique twist on the classic bossam (boiled pork belly), served with house-made tofu instead of rice, paired with spicy radish kimchi and a tangy dipping sauce.

6. Gamja Jeon (Potato Pancake) – A crispy, golden-brown potato pancake, served with Cho Dang Gol’s signature dipping sauce for a simple yet addictive appetizer.

Banchan: The Heart of Korean Dining

One of Cho Dang Gol’s highlights is its banchan (Korean side dishes), which accompany every meal. The selection includes a variety of house-fermented kimchi, pickled radish, seasoned spinach, and marinated bean sprouts, all prepared with authentic Korean flavors. These small dishes constantly rotate based on seasonality, offering a well-rounded and satisfying dining experience.

Why Cho Dang Gol Stands Out

The homey, rustic interior creates a warm and welcoming atmosphere, reminiscent of traditional Korean eateries. Guests are greeted with a complimentary serving of their signature warm, homemade tofu, setting the tone for an authentic Korean meal. Over the years, food critics and Korean food lovers alike have praised the restaurant’s dedication to tradition, with some even saying it tastes just like home-cooked meals in Korea.

For those seeking a genuine, no-frills Korean dining experience, Cho Dang Gol is a must-visit. Whether you’re a longtime fan of Korean food or new to it, this Koreatown institution offers a rare taste of Korea’s tofu-making heritage right in the middle of Manhattan.