Chodang Uga in Gangneung: Korean BBQ with Pet-Friendly Seating Near St. John’s Hotel

Experience Korean BBQ with Pet-Friendly Comfort in Gangneung

Located just across from St. John’s Hotel and near Gangmun Beach in Gangneung, Chodang Uga (초당우가) offers a spacious and refined Korean dining experience. This restaurant is often praised for its fresh, high-quality beef and pork ribs, especially the fruit-marinated pork ribs that balance a natural sweetness without being overly sugary. Visitors frequently mention the juicy, tender cuts like the cube-shaped sirloin (깍둑등심) that retain rich meat juices when grilled over charcoal.

Chodang Uga is well known among travelers and locals alike as a pet-friendly Korean BBQ spot. It features a dedicated and separated seating area for guests dining with dogs under 15kg, ensuring a comfortable meal for all. The venue provides thoughtful amenities such as pet strollers, pet pads, and even handmade dog treats for sale, reflecting a genuine care for pet owners.

The interior is described as clean, spacious, and well-ventilated, with wide table spacing that allows relaxed conversations. The atmosphere is elevated by tasteful decor and warm lighting, making it suitable for family dinners, group gatherings, and visitors seeking a neat dining environment. Several private rooms are available, adding to the convenience for larger parties or those preferring privacy.

Menu Highlights and Dining Experience

Menus are conveniently ordered via tablets at each table, featuring various cuts of Korean beef (한우) including full and half portions, as well as pork and beef ribs. Side dishes are plentiful and well-regarded, with items such as japchae (glass noodles), fresh vegetables, and the local specialty Chodang soft tofu (초당순두부) served as part of the set. The self-service side dish bar allows guests to refill fresh greens and other accompaniments freely.

Reviewers often highlight the doenjang jjigae (soybean paste stew) served alongside the meat, noting its deep, savory flavor that complements the grilled dishes without overpowering them. The cold noodles (mul naengmyeon and bibim naengmyeon) are also popular, providing a refreshing finish to the meal and balancing the richness of the barbecue.

Guests appreciate the smooth blend of sweet and savory in the pork ribs’ marinade, which uses fresh fruit to create a natural sweetness. The beef cuts are praised for their marbling and tenderness, with some visitors noting that the meat is not tough even when served thickly sliced. The charcoal grilling adds a subtle smoky aroma that enhances the overall flavor.

Facilities and Services

Chodang Uga offers ample parking space right in front of the restaurant, easing access for visitors arriving by car. The restaurant operates daily from 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM and 5:00 PM to 9:30 PM, with a break time between 3:00 PM and 5:00 PM. Last orders are taken at 8:50 PM. Reservations and takeout are available, and there is no corkage fee for bringing your own drinks.

Additional conveniences include a comfortable waiting area with sofas and a coffee machine, robot-assisted serving, and facilities for families such as baby chairs and diaper changing stations. The separation of pet-friendly seating from general seating ensures a pleasant experience for all guests.

Recent Local References (as of 12 May 2026)

• Google reviews consistently rate Chodang Uga highly (average 4.8/5 from nearly 200 reviews), praising the quality of meat, the pleasant atmosphere, and the pet-friendly setup.
• Multiple recent blog posts highlight the restaurant’s proximity to St. John’s Hotel and Gangmun Beach, its spacious and clean interior, and the natural sweetness of the fruit-marinated pork ribs.
• Visitors frequently mention the well-organized self-service side dish bar, the variety of fresh and tasty banchan, and the satisfying combination of grilled meat with cold noodles and soybean paste stew.
• Pet owners appreciate the dedicated seating area, pet amenities, and the overall thoughtful service that caters to both humans and their furry companions.

Location & How to Access

Address: 298-4 Haean-ro, Gangneung-si, Gangwon-do (강원특별자치도 강릉시 해안로 298-4)

Nearby landmarks: Directly opposite St. John’s Hotel, near Gangmun Beach and within walking distance from several hotels including Seamarq and Skybay.

Parking: Ample parking available in front of the restaurant.

Hours: Daily 11:00–15:00 and 17:00–21:30 (break 15:00–17:00), last order at 20:50.

Contact: 033-651-9400

Please check the latest details and any pet policies before visiting.