Cho Dang Gol

- 55 W 35th St, New York, NY 10001

For anyone seeking an authentic and comforting Korean dining experience in New York City, look no further than Cho Dang Gol. Tucked away in the bustling Koreatown area of Midtown Manhattan, this restaurant has garnered a reputation far beyond its humble storefront. It's not just a place for a meal; it's a culinary journey into the heart of traditional Korean home cooking, with a special emphasis on its signature, freshly made tofu. Cho Dang Gol stands out in a neighborhood saturated with Korean restaurants, earning its place on various "best of" lists and, most notably, a Michelin Bib Gourmand award. This distinction highlights restaurants that offer high-quality food at a reasonable price, a testament to Cho Dang Gol's commitment to both flavor and value.

Cho Dang Gol’s philosophy centers on simplicity and tradition. The menu is a celebration of rustic, soulful dishes that showcase a deep appreciation for authentic flavors and time-honored techniques. While many of its neighbors focus on the popular Korean BBQ experience, Cho Dang Gol offers a different kind of warmth through its bubbling stews and classic entrees. The friendly and professional tone of the staff, combined with the cozy atmosphere, makes it feel like you're dining in a classic Seoul eatery rather than the middle of Manhattan. For locals who have tired of the same old spots or tourists looking for a genuine taste of Korean cuisine, Cho Dang Gol offers a refreshing and deeply satisfying alternative.

Cho Dang Gol is conveniently located at 55 W 35th St, New York, NY 10001, USA. Its prime position places it right in the heart of Midtown, just a short walk from major transportation hubs and landmarks. The restaurant is situated on a vibrant street, making it an easy-to-find spot for both pre-theater dinner and a post-work meal. It's a short walk from Herald Square and Penn Station, providing easy access to multiple subway lines, including the B, D, F, M, N, Q, R, W, A, C, E, 1, 2, and 3 trains. This central location ensures that no matter where you are in the city, getting to Cho Dang Gol is a breeze.

For guests with mobility needs, the restaurant provides a wheelchair accessible entrance, making it welcoming to all patrons. While the surrounding area is a busy urban landscape, there is paid street parking available for those who choose to drive. However, given the location and the likelihood of street congestion, utilizing the city's extensive public transit system is often the most practical choice. The fact that the restaurant is easily reached from so many parts of the city contributes to its popularity and reputation as a go-to spot for both quick lunches and more leisurely dinners.

Cho Dang Gol provides a range of services designed to make dining convenient and enjoyable for all customers.

• Takeout: If you're looking to enjoy the delicious food at home, the restaurant offers easy takeout service.
• Delivery: For ultimate convenience, Cho Dang Gol partners with various delivery platforms, allowing you to have their authentic dishes brought directly to you.
• Dine-in: The full dine-in experience is what truly sets Cho Dang Gol apart. The seating is comfortable and the table service is attentive, creating a warm and welcoming environment.
• Lunch and Dinner: The restaurant serves both lunch and dinner, making it a perfect spot for any meal of the day. They are particularly popular for solo dining, lunch, and dinner.
• Dessert: While stews and entrees are the main draw, the restaurant also offers a dessert menu to complete your meal.

Cho Dang Gol's reputation is built on several key features that make it a standout in the competitive New York City restaurant scene.

• Homemade Tofu: This is the heart of Cho Dang Gol's identity. The restaurant is renowned for its fresh, homemade tofu, which serves as the star of many of its dishes, particularly the stews. A complimentary starter tofu dish is served to every table, setting the stage for the quality to come.
• Michelin Bib Gourmand: Earning this prestigious award means the restaurant is recognized for serving excellent food at a great value. It’s a mark of quality that assures diners of a top-tier experience without the prohibitive price tag of a Michelin-starred establishment.
• Fast Service: Despite the popularity and frequent waits, the service is notably fast and attentive, as noted by customers. This ensures that once you're seated, your food arrives promptly and the staff is on hand to help.
• Authentic Banchan: The meal begins with a variety of complimentary banchan (small side dishes), all of which are made fresh and are refillable. This commitment to the details of a traditional Korean meal is highly appreciated by patrons.
• Cozy and Casual Atmosphere: The vibe at Cho Dang Gol is relaxed, friendly, and trendy, making it a comfortable place for all types of groups, from college students to families and groups of friends.

For inquiries or to learn more about Cho Dang Gol, you can use the following contact information:

• Address: 55 W 35th St, New York, NY 10001, USA

Choosing to dine at Cho Dang Gol is a decision to experience a different side of Korean cuisine, one rooted in comfort and quality ingredients. The main draw is undoubtedly the homemade tofu. While many restaurants use pre-made tofu, Cho Dang Gol's commitment to crafting their own gives their stews a silky, rich texture and a delicate flavor that is unmatched. The "Perilla Seed Tofu Stew" is a unique and highly praised dish that perfectly showcases this specialty. The stews, in general, are a must-try; they come out fresh, delicious, and perfectly cooked, with customers leaving "full and happy."

Beyond the signature tofu, the menu is filled with exceptional dishes. The "Korean Party Starters" section offers a variety of shareable plates that are perfect for groups. The "Seafood & Scallion Pancake" is a standout, praised for its crispy texture and generous mix of seafood. The "Cod Roe Omelet" is another highlight, described as "custard and savory." Even dishes like the "Spicy Kimchi Tofu Stew" and "Beef Bulgogi Hot Pot" are beloved for their rich flavors and satisfying portions.

While some might find the wait times challenging (as it is a popular spot with "usually a wait"), the consensus among patrons is that the experience is "well worth the wait." The fast service, coupled with the high-quality food, makes the wait a minor inconvenience for a truly memorable meal. The banchan, which includes a starter tofu dish, is a fantastic bonus and shows the restaurant's generosity and authenticity. The cozy and gender-neutral restrooms are an added touch of comfort. For those seeking healthy options, the menu offers a variety of choices, from vegetarian stews to fresh salads. For a dining experience that combines exceptional, authentic Korean cooking with a friendly atmosphere, Cho Dang Gol is an outstanding choice in the New York City landscape.

Cho Dang Gol

55 W 35th St, New York, NY 10001, USA