Dohwadang (桃花堂)
Our first dinner in Gyeongju brought us to Dohwadang (桃花堂), a charming hanok restaurant where every bowl is as beautiful as it is satisfying. Named after the peach blossom, the restaurant reflects elegance in both its setting and its food.
The warm timber interiors, soaring wooden beams and peaceful atmosphere made it the perfect place to unwind after a day exploring the ancient capital. Judging by the steady stream of locals, we knew we had made a good choice.
Dohwadang is best known for its signature Perilla Oil Kalguksu (들기름 칼국수). Handmade noodles are tossed in fragrant perilla oil, then finished with roasted seaweed and crushed sesame seeds. It is a deceptively simple dish, yet the rich, nutty aroma and silky texture make it incredibly addictive. We also enjoyed the comforting beef rib noodle soup, spicy noodles topped with fresh beef, fiery pork noodles, and baskets of freshly steamed dumplings filled with juicy pork and vegetables.
What impressed us most was how the restaurant elevates humble noodle dishes into something refined without losing their soul. Every bowl looked carefully crafted, but the flavours remained honest, comforting and deeply satisfying.
If you are planning a trip to Gyeongju, Dohwadang is well worth adding to your itinerary. It is a wonderful introduction to the city's appreciation for tradition, craftsmanship and the beauty of simple food done exceptionally well.
