When people think of the east coast of Korea, the first thing that comes to mind is usually the blue ocean.
However, those days are over. In 2026, the real reason to plan a Gangneung Travel itinerary is the incredible food scene.
After hosting the Winter Olympics, this city has transformed into a culinary capital where local ingredients meet modern trends.
If you are a traveler who lives to eat, this guide is for you.
We are diving into the two most iconic spots that have taken social media by storm: the legendary Umji-ne Pocha and the craft beer sanctuary known as Budnamu Brewery.
1. The Legend of Cockle Bibimbap: Umji-ne Pocha
The absolute hottest spot in the city right now is Umji-ne Pocha.
This place is so famous that even if you arrive an hour before opening, you will likely find a line. It is not uncommon for visitors to wait three hours just to get a taste of their signature dish.
The owner is famous for accurately predicting the wait time, which adds a bit of local charm to the experience.
The star of the menu at Umji-ne Pocha is the Kkomak Muchim, or seasoned cockles.
They use fresh cockles from Beolgyo mixed with a variety of seasonings and vegetables.
What makes it special is the addition of spicy green peppers that leave a refreshing tingle on your tongue.
Most people order the cockle bibimbap, which comes with half seasoned cockles and half seasoned rice.
It is a savory and spicy masterpiece that represents the bold flavors of Gangneung Travel perfectly.
If you have room for more, you should also try the Yuk-sasimi, which is premium Korean beef sashimi.
Dipping the chewy, tender beef into savory sesame oil and eating it with sweet sliced pears is the ultimate treat.
Umji-ne Pocha is a place where the quality of the ingredients speaks for itself.
2. A Sip of Local Tradition: Budnamu Brewery
After enjoying a spicy meal, the best way to cool down is with a cold glass of craft beer.
Budnamu Brewery is the most representative brewery in the region.
The building itself is a piece of history as it was converted from an old Makgeolli rice wine brewery.
This sense of continuity in alcohol production gives the space a unique soul.
The interior of Budnamu Brewery preserves the vintage atmosphere of the original structure, making it a favorite for photography lovers.
It gained massive popularity after being featured on famous Korean TV shows.
The beer here is truly world-class, especially the Minori Session.
This beer is brewed using rice grown in the local Minori area of Gwangju.
It offers a clean and smooth taste that you cannot find anywhere else.
For those who want to explore different flavors, I highly recommend the sampler menu.
It allows you to taste four different types of their best brews, including the Pine City Pale Ale and Cham-po Blanc.
Any true beer enthusiast on a Gangneung Travel journey must make a stop at Budnamu Brewery to experience the pinnacle of Korean craft beer.
3. Practical Tips for Your Gangneung Travel
To make the most of your visit to Umji-ne Pocha and Budnamu Brewery, keep these tips in mind.
First, the waiting game is real. For Umji-ne Pocha, try to visit during a weekday or right at opening to minimize your wait time.
If you cannot wait, they do offer a very efficient takeout service so you can enjoy your cockles at your hotel or by the beach.
Second, check the hours for the brewery. Budnamu Brewery has a break time between 4 PM and 5 PM where only beer and drinks are available.
If you want to try their delicious food pairings, plan your visit accordingly.
Both locations are easily accessible by taxi from the main train station, making them perfect additions to your Gangneung Travel plans.
4. Visitor Information Summary
| Destination | Must-Try Menu | Best For | Hours |
| Umji-ne Pocha | Cockle Bibimbap and Beef Sashimi | Spicy food lovers and Local vibes | 11:00 to 23:00 |
| Budnamu Brewery | Minori Session and Beer Sampler | Craft beer fans and Vintage atmosphere | 12:00 to 24:00 |
Experience the flavors that millions of people have fallen in love with online.
From the spicy kick of Umji-ne Pocha to the refreshing local brews of Budnamu Brewery, your Gangneung Travel experience will be a feast for all your senses.
Pack your appetite and get ready for the ultimate foodie adventure on the east coast of Korea.