Quick answer
Sokcho's Abai Village and Jungang Market offer an unparalleled experience for freshly grilled cuttlefish and innovative squid ink snacks, immersing visitors in local flavors by the East Sea.
- Best overall
- Sinpyeonghwa Sikdang
- Best budget
- Sokcho Jungang Market Grilled Cuttlefish Alley
- Best experience
- Abai Gaetbae Cuttlefish & Snacks
- Last verified
- 2026-03
How we picked these
Our selections are based on extensive research of local culinary reviews, popular travel forums, and on-the-ground recommendations from Sokcho residents and frequent visitors. We prioritize venues known for their authentic grilled cuttlefish, innovative squid ink dishes, and lively market atmosphere, ensuring a memorable and delicious experience.
Sinpyeonghwa Sikdang (μ ννμλΉ)
One of the oldest and most beloved restaurants in Abai Village, Sinpyeonghwa Sikdang has been serving authentic North Korean-style dishes for generations. Famous for its generous portions and homey atmosphere, it's a must-visit for traditional Abai specialties.
π½οΈ What to order
Abai Sundae and Ojingeo Sundae combo platter.
π‘ Insider tip
Go during off-peak hours to avoid long lines, especially for lunch.
"Sinpyeonghwa Sikdang's Abai Sundae felt so authentic, like a true taste of history. The Ojingeo Sundae was surprisingly addictive!"β r/koreanfood user
Abai Sundae Original House (μλ°μ΄μλμμ‘°)
Another cornerstone of Abai Village's culinary scene, this establishment prides itself on preserving the original flavors of Abai Sundae. Their recipes have been passed down through generations, ensuring a truly authentic and flavorful experience in a cozy setting.
π½οΈ What to order
Ojingeo Sundae (stuffed squid) and a bowl of Hamheung Naengmyeon (cold noodles) to complement.
π‘ Insider tip
Try pairing their sundae with some local makgeolli for a perfect traditional meal.
"The Ojingeo Sundae at Abai Sundae Original House was bigger and more flavorful than I expected. Definitely worth the wait!"β r/travelkorea user
Dancheon Sikdang (λ¨μ²μλΉ)
Dancheon Sikdang offers a wide array of Abai Village specialties, from their famed Abai Sundae to various seafood dishes. It's known for its consistent quality and friendly service, making it a reliable choice for experiencing the local flavors.
π½οΈ What to order
Grilled Ojingeo Sundae and Abalone Porridge (Jeonbokjuk).
π‘ Insider tip
They often have English menus available, which is helpful for international visitors.
"Dancheon Sikdang's grilled Ojingeo Sundae had a fantastic char on it, and the stuffing was so tender. Really hit the spot after walking around the village."β r/foodkorea user
Sokcho Jungang Market Grilled Cuttlefish Alley (μμ΄μ€μμμ₯ μ€μ§μ΄κ΅¬μ΄ 골λͺ©)
This lively alley within Sokcho Jungang Market is a haven for grilled seafood lovers. Various stalls compete with the aroma of freshly grilled cuttlefish and squid, seasoned simply or with a spicy glaze, cooked right before your eyes.
π½οΈ What to order
A whole grilled cuttlefish (Ojingeo Gui) with a hint of chili paste.
π‘ Insider tip
Don't be afraid to try samples offered by different vendors before making your choice.
"The grilled cuttlefish at Jungang Market was perfection β tender, smoky, and the perfect snack. Just follow your nose!"β r/koreatravel user
Abai Gaetbae Cuttlefish & Snacks (μλ°μ΄ κ°―λ°° μ€μ§μ΄ & μ€λ΅)
Located conveniently close to the Gaetbae ferry crossing, this popular stall offers quick and delicious grilled cuttlefish and a variety of other easy-to-eat snacks. It's perfect for a bite while waiting for the ferry or a casual stroll through the village.
π½οΈ What to order
Dried, grilled cuttlefish (Jukumi Gui) and squid ink buns.
π‘ Insider tip
Grab your snack and enjoy it by the water for scenic views of Cheongchoho Lake.
"Found this gem right by the Gaetbae ferry! Their grilled cuttlefish was tender, and the squid ink bread was surprisingly good and dark."β r/travel user
Sokcho Squid Ink Bread House (μμ΄ μ€μ§μ΄λ¨Ήλ¬ΌλΉ΅μ§)
Specializing in creative squid ink-infused baked goods, this unique shop offers a fun and delicious take on local flavors. Their breads and pastries feature the distinct dark hue and subtle oceanic notes of squid ink, often filled with sweet or savory ingredients.
π½οΈ What to order
Squid Ink Red Bean Bread and Squid Ink Cream Cheese Bread.
π‘ Insider tip
These make great edible souvenirs or gifts due to their unique local flavor.
"Okay, the squid ink bread from Sokcho Squid Ink Bread House was unexpectedly delicious! Don't let the color scare you, it's so soft and flavorful."β r/food user
Abai Village Seafood Grill House (μλ°μ΄λ§μ ν΄μ°λ¬Όκ΅¬μ΄μ§)
This restaurant focuses on a broader range of grilled seafood, offering not just cuttlefish but also various fresh fish and shellfish caught from the East Sea. It's a great spot for a sit-down meal with a diverse selection of grilled delicacies.
π½οΈ What to order
Grilled Cuttlefish Platter and grilled shrimp.
π‘ Insider tip
Ask for the catch of the day to try the freshest local seafood.
"We splurged at the Abai Village Seafood Grill House and got the cuttlefish platter. Everything was so fresh and perfectly grilled, highly recommend!"β r/travelkorea user
Cheongchoho Lake Grilled Squid Tent (μ²μ΄νΈ μ€μ§μ΄κ΅¬μ΄ ν¬μ₯λ§μ°¨)
A classic Korean pojangmacha (tent restaurant) setup, offering a rustic and authentic street food experience by the beautiful Cheongchoho Lake. They serve perfectly grilled squid and cuttlefish, often with a side of soju, making it a favorite for evening snacks.
π½οΈ What to order
Spicy Grilled Squid (Maeun Ojingeo Gui) with a glass of soju.
π‘ Insider tip
This spot comes alive at night, offering a great atmosphere and views of the illuminated lake.
"Stopped by a pojangmacha near Cheongchoho Lake for some late-night grilled squid. So simple, but absolutely divine, especially with soju!"β r/koreanfood user
Sokcho Dongmyeong-dong Hoe Center - Grilled Cuttlefish Stall (μμ΄ λλͺ λ νμΌν° μ€μ§μ΄κ΅¬μ΄μ )
While primarily a raw fish (hoe) center, many stalls here also offer expertly grilled seafood to complement the fresh catches. Look for the vendors with the most fragrant smoke and perfectly charred cuttlefish, a true taste of Sokcho's fishing port.
π½οΈ What to order
Freshly caught and grilled cuttlefish, seasoned simply with salt.
π‘ Insider tip
Combine your grilled cuttlefish with some fresh sashimi from another stall for a complete seafood feast.
"The grilled cuttlefish I got at Dongmyeong-dong Hoe Center was ridiculously fresh and cooked just right. Couldn't stop eating it."β r/foodtravel user
Hometown Squid Ink Pasta (κ³ ν₯ μ€μ§μ΄λ¨Ήλ¬Ό νμ€ν)
This modern cafe offers a unique twist on local ingredients, specializing in squid ink pasta and other fusion dishes. It's a great option for those looking for a contemporary dining experience with a distinct Sokcho flavor, away from the traditional market hustle.
π½οΈ What to order
Squid Ink Seafood Pasta with fresh local catch.
π‘ Insider tip
Enjoy the ocean views from this cafe, often located near Sokcho Beach.
"Who knew squid ink pasta in Sokcho could be so good? Hometown Squid Ink Pasta was surprisingly chic and delicious, a nice break from street food."β r/travel user
Grandma's Hand-Pulled Noodles & Squid (ν λ¨Έλ μμΉΌκ΅μ & μ€μ§μ΄)
A quaint and charming spot in Abai Village, known for its hearty hand-pulled noodles (kalguksu) and various squid dishes. While not exclusively grilled, they often serve grilled squid as a side or incorporate squid into their flavorful broths and stir-fries.
π½οΈ What to order
Kalguksu with fresh squid, and a side of pan-fried squid with vegetables.
π‘ Insider tip
This spot is particularly comforting on a chilly day, offering warm and hearty meals.
"The kalguksu at Grandma's Hand-Pulled Noodles & Squid was fantastic, and their pan-fried squid on the side was a perfect chewy complement."β r/sokchofood user
Sokcho Express Bus Terminal Dried Cuttlefish Vendor (μμ΄κ³ μλ²μ€ν°λ―Έλ 건μ€μ§μ΄ ν맀μ )
While not a sit-down restaurant, no trip to Sokcho is complete without picking up some local dried cuttlefish. Vendors at the bus terminal offer various preparations, from simply dried to seasoned and lightly roasted, perfect for a snack on the go or a souvenir.
π½οΈ What to order
Roasted Dried Cuttlefish (Gueun Geon Ojingeo) for the journey home.
π‘ Insider tip
Ask for a sample before buying a whole bag to find your preferred level of chewiness and seasoning.
"Grabbed some roasted dried cuttlefish from the vendor at Sokcho Express Bus Terminal for the bus ride. Best snack ever and tastes like Sokcho!"β r/snackexchange user
β Frequently Asked Questions
What is Abai Village known for?
Abai Village is famous for its unique history as a settlement for North Korean refugees after the Korean War. Culinarily, it's renowned for 'Abai Sundae' (a blood sausage stuffed with sticky rice, vegetables, and glass noodles) and 'Ojingeo Sundae' (squid stuffed with similar ingredients), along with fresh seafood.
What is Ojingeo Sundae?
Ojingeo Sundae is a Sokcho specialty consisting of a whole fresh squid, cleaned and then stuffed with a mixture of sticky rice, finely chopped vegetables, tofu, and sometimes minced pork or glass noodles. It's then steamed or pan-fried, offering a unique texture and savory flavor distinct from traditional blood sausage.
How do I get to Abai Village?
Abai Village is easily accessible from Sokcho city center. The most iconic way is to take the Gaetbae ferry, a hand-pulled raft that crosses the short Cheongchoho Lake channel from Jungang Market. Alternatively, you can drive or take a local bus, crossing a bridge to the village.
Are squid ink snacks popular in Sokcho?
Yes, squid ink is a popular ingredient in Sokcho, reflecting its coastal identity. You'll find it incorporated into various local snacks and dishes, such as squid ink bread, pasta, or even rice dishes, offering a distinct color and subtle oceanic flavor that highlights the region's fresh seafood.
What's the best time to visit Abai Village for food?
Abai Village is vibrant year-round, but spring and autumn offer pleasant weather for exploring the outdoor market. Weekends and national holidays see the most activity, making it great for people-watching and enjoying the lively atmosphere, though it can get crowded. Weekdays are generally less busy.
Besides grilled cuttlefish, what other seafood should I try in Sokcho?
Beyond grilled cuttlefish and squid, Sokcho boasts a rich array of fresh seafood. Don't miss the Haemul-tang (spicy seafood stew), Gyeranppang (steamed egg bread), or fresh sashimi at the Jungang Market. Also, local crab dishes and various grilled fish are highly recommended.
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