Quick answer
For an unparalleled taste of Gangwon's buckwheat noodles, Mithat Jip in Pyeongchang offers a deeply satisfying, traditional experience.
- Best overall
- Mithat Jip (λ―Ένμ§)
- Best budget
- Jeongseon Memil Guksu Jip (μ μ λ©λ°κ΅μμ§)
- Best experience
- Hyoseok Makguksu (ν¨μλ§κ΅μ)
- Last verified
- 2026-03
How we picked these
Our selection of Gangwon's best makguksu restaurants is based on extensive local research, expert recommendations, and consistent high ratings. We prioritize venues celebrated for their fresh, locally-sourced buckwheat flour, traditional preparation methods, and authentic flavors, ensuring a true taste of the region.
Mithat Jip (λ―Ένμ§)
A revered institution in Pyeongchang, Mithat Jip is known for its incredibly rich and flavorful mul makguksu broth. Using 100% pure buckwheat flour, their noodles have an earthy aroma and perfectly chewy texture. It's a taste of authentic Gangwon culinary heritage.
π½οΈ What to order
Mul Makguksu (cold buckwheat noodles in broth), Suyuk (boiled pork slices)
π‘ Insider tip
The restaurant can get very busy during lunch hours, especially on weekends. Arrive before 12 PM or after 2 PM to avoid long waits.
"Mithat Jip's mul makguksu changed my life. The broth is so deep and satisfying, unlike any other I've had in Korea. Worth the drive to Pyeongchang!"β r/koreatravel user
Hyoseok Makguksu (ν¨μλ§κ΅μ)
Located near the Lee Hyo-seok Culture Village, this restaurant is a pilgrimage for makguksu lovers. They mill their buckwheat fresh daily, resulting in exceptionally fragrant and firm noodles. The bibim makguksu, with its balanced sweet and spicy sauce, is particularly popular.
π½οΈ What to order
Bibim Makguksu (spicy mixed buckwheat noodles), Memil Jeonbyeong (buckwheat crepe)
π‘ Insider tip
Combine your visit with a stroll through the Lee Hyo-seok Culture Village, dedicated to the author known for his short story 'When the Buckwheat Blossoms'.
"Hyoseok Makguksu is absolutely mandatory if you're in Bongpyeong, especially after walking around the literary village. Their noodles are unbelievably fresh."β r/travel user
Gaseong Makguksu (κ°μ°λ§κ΅μ)
A long-standing establishment in Bongpyeong, Gaseong Makguksu is celebrated for its clean, refreshing broth and chewy noodles. Their minimalist approach allows the pure taste of buckwheat to shine through, often complemented by slices of Pyeongchang Hanwoo beef.
π½οΈ What to order
Makguksu (regular, with broth and minimal seasoning), Pyeongchang Hanwoo Sliced Beef
π‘ Insider tip
They also offer excellent Pyeongchang Hanwoo, making it a great spot for a dual culinary experience of local beef and noodles.
"Gaseong Makguksu has that perfect balance of chewy noodles and refreshing broth. It's my go-to when I'm in Pyeongchang for its consistent quality."β r/food user
Chuncheon Makguksu Cheonjeon (μΆμ²λ§κ΅μμ²μ )
As one of Chuncheon's most iconic makguksu spots, Cheonjeon offers a robust and flavorful take on the dish, often with a spicier kick. The restaurant has a lively atmosphere and is popular with both locals and tourists seeking the definitive Chuncheon style.
π½οΈ What to order
Chuncheon Makguksu (Bibim-style is typical here), Memil Mandoo (buckwheat dumplings)
π‘ Insider tip
While famous for makguksu, Chuncheon is also known for dakgalbi. Many people visit both in one trip, so consider pairing it with a dakgalbi experience.
"You can't go to Chuncheon and not try Makguksu Cheonjeon. It's legendary for a reason, and their bibim is perfectly spicy!"β r/korea user
Jeongseon Memil Guksu Jip (μ μ λ©λ°κ΅μμ§)
Tucked away in Jeongseon, this humble restaurant offers a deeply traditional and comforting memil guksu experience. Known for its generous portions and simple, authentic flavors, it truly feels like eating a homemade meal in a local's kitchen.
π½οΈ What to order
Jeongseon-style Memil Guksu, Gondeure Jeon (Korean thistle pancake)
π‘ Insider tip
Jeongseon is famous for its gondeure (Korean thistle). Make sure to try dishes featuring this local ingredient, like their unique gondeure jeon.
"Jeongseon Memil Guksu Jip felt like eating at a grandma's house. So wholesome and the gondeure jeon was incredible with the noodles."β r/travelkorea user
Sokcho Makguksu (μμ΄λ§κ΅μ)
Despite its name, there are several popular 'Sokcho Makguksu' restaurants throughout Gangwon, with the Sokcho branch being particularly well-regarded. It offers a clean, crisp makguksu that's perfect after a day by the sea or hiking in Seoraksan National Park.
π½οΈ What to order
Mul Makguksu, Memil Mandoo (buckwheat dumplings)
π‘ Insider tip
It's a great spot to refuel after exploring Seoraksan National Park or enjoying the beaches of Sokcho. The restaurant is usually spacious.
"Sokcho Makguksu is always consistent. A solid choice for a refreshing bowl after hiking Seoraksan. Don't forget their dumplings!"β r/koreatravel user
Gamja Makguksu (κ°μλ§κ΅μ)
This Gangneung establishment offers a unique twist on makguksu, incorporating the region's famous potatoes into some of their dishes. The result is a slightly different texture and a distinctively fresh flavor, making it a local favorite.
π½οΈ What to order
Gamja Makguksu (potato-infused buckwheat noodles), Gamja Jeon (potato pancake)
π‘ Insider tip
The potato pancake (gamja jeon) here is incredibly crispy and flavorful β a must-try side dish that perfectly complements the noodles.
"The Gamja Makguksu in Gangneung was surprisingly good! The potato adds a nice texture and the jeon is crispy perfection. A unique experience."β r/food user
Nongbu Makguksu (λλΆλ§κ΅μ)
Translating to 'Farmer's Makguksu', this restaurant lives up to its name by emphasizing fresh, local ingredients, particularly their own farm-grown buckwheat. The atmosphere is rustic and authentic, providing a genuine taste of rural Gangwon.
π½οΈ What to order
Nongbu Makguksu (farm-style buckwheat noodles), Memil Chongtteok (buckwheat crepe with savory filling)
π‘ Insider tip
Known for using locally grown buckwheat directly from their own fields, ensuring maximum freshness and flavor. Great for those seeking an authentic farm-to-table experience.
"Nongbu Makguksu felt very authentic, like eating at a real farmhouse. Simple flavors done perfectly, and you can taste the freshness of the buckwheat."β r/korea user
Yetnal Makguksu (μλ λ§κ΅μ)
As its name suggests ('Yetnal' meaning 'old-fashioned'), this restaurant prides itself on serving makguksu prepared using traditional methods. The noodles are known for their firm texture and deep buckwheat flavor, served with a simple yet profound broth or spicy sauce.
π½οΈ What to order
Yetnal Makguksu, Boiled Pork Slices (μμ‘)
π‘ Insider tip
If you enjoy adding vinegar and mustard to your noodles, ask for extra on the side to customize your flavor profile to your liking.
"If you want old-school makguksu, Yetnal Makguksu is the place. No frills, just pure, delicious buckwheat noodles the way they used to be."β r/foodkorea user
Gundal Makguksu (κ΅°λ¬λ§κ΅μ)
A delightful find in the coastal city of Samcheok, Gundal Makguksu offers a taste of authentic local flavors away from the bigger crowds. Their bibim makguksu is particularly noted for its well-balanced spicy sauce and chewy noodles, offering a refreshing meal.
π½οΈ What to order
Gundal Bibim Makguksu, Gamja Ongsimi (potato dumpling soup, if available)
π‘ Insider tip
This spot is often less crowded than more famous eateries, making it a great option for a relaxed meal while exploring Samcheok's scenic coast.
"Stumbled upon Gundal Makguksu in Samcheok and was pleasantly surprised! The bibim sauce was spot on and the noodles were perfectly chewy."β r/koreatravel user
Sanam-dong Makguksu (μ¬λ¨λλ§κ΅μ)
A popular choice in the city of Wonju, Sanam-dong Makguksu is known for its consistent quality and lively atmosphere. They offer both mul and bibim styles, with a slightly zestier flavor profile that appeals to a broad audience, perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.
π½οΈ What to order
Sanam-dong Makguksu (choose mul or bibim), Memil Jeon (buckwheat pancake)
π‘ Insider tip
Ideal for a quick and delicious meal if you're passing through Wonju. It's easily accessible and offers a reliable makguksu fix.
"Sanam-dong Makguksu is my go-to in Wonju for a quick and delicious makguksu fix. The jeon is a great side, always crispy!"β r/food user
Daegwallyeong Hanwoo Makguksu (λκ΄λ Ή νμ° λ§κ΅μ)
This restaurant uniquely combines Gangwon's famed Hanwoo (Korean beef) with its signature buckwheat noodles. Enjoy makguksu made with a rich beef broth or opt for their high-quality grilled Hanwoo alongside a refreshing bowl of noodles for a truly indulgent experience.
π½οΈ What to order
Hanwoo Yuksu Makguksu (beef broth makguksu), Grilled Hanwoo Beef (if you're feeling indulgent)
π‘ Insider tip
While slightly pricier, the opportunity to combine top-tier Hanwoo beef with excellent makguksu makes for a memorable and distinctly Gangwon meal.
"If you want to splurge a bit, Daegwallyeong Hanwoo Makguksu is amazing. The beef broth makguksu is so rich, and then you get to eat actual Hanwoo!"β r/koreatravel user
β Frequently Asked Questions
What exactly is Makguksu?
Makguksu is a traditional Korean cold noodle dish originating from Gangwon Province. It features thin, chewy noodles made from buckwheat flour, served in a cold, tangy broth (mul makguksu) or mixed with a spicy gochujang-based sauce (bibim makguksu). It's a refreshing and savory dish, especially popular during warmer months.
Why is Gangwon Province particularly famous for Makguksu?
Gangwon Province is known as the 'highland region' of Korea, with a climate and soil ideal for cultivating buckwheat (memil). This abundance of high-quality, fresh-milled buckwheat flour has historically made it the heartland of makguksu, leading to a rich tradition and diverse regional variations of the dish.
What's the difference between Mul Makguksu and Bibim Makguksu?
Mul Makguksu features buckwheat noodles served in a clear, cold broth, often made from dongchimi (radish kimchi brine) or beef/anchovy stock, sometimes with a touch of vinegar and mustard. Bibim Makguksu, on the other hand, consists of noodles tossed with a vibrant, spicy, sweet, and savory gochujang-based sauce, often with shredded vegetables and a boiled egg, and less broth.
What are common side dishes to enjoy with Makguksu?
Popular side dishes that perfectly complement makguksu include Suyuk (boiled pork slices), Memil Jeonbyeong (buckwheat crepes filled with kimchi and vegetables), and various types of Jeon (savory pancakes) like Gamja Jeon (potato pancake) or Memil Jeon (plain buckwheat pancake). These add texture and flavor contrast to the main dish.
When is the best time to visit Gangwon for Makguksu?
While makguksu can be enjoyed year-round, it is particularly refreshing during the warmer spring and summer months (May to September). The Pyeongchang-Bongpyeong area even hosts a Buckwheat Flower Festival in early autumn (late August to early September) when the fields are in full bloom, making it a beautiful time to visit and savor fresh noodles.
How do locals typically eat Makguksu?
Locals often customize their makguksu. For mul makguksu, add a dash of vinegar and mustard to taste. For bibim makguksu, mix the sauce thoroughly with the noodles using chopsticks. Many also enjoy cutting the long noodles with scissors provided at the table to make them easier to eat. Don't be shy about slurping β it's a sign of enjoyment!
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