If you enjoy exploring local Korean restaurants, Madang in Sinhyeon-ri, Gwangju is a great place to visit. This restaurant specializes in Hamheung-style naengmyeon (Korean cold noodles) and is known for its calm hanok-style atmosphere and generous portions.
I visited recently while searching for good naengmyeon spots in Gyeonggi-do, and it turned out to be a surprisingly satisfying place for both the food and the setting.
Madang is located at 21 Sinhyeon-ro, Gwangju, Gyeonggi-do, not far from Taejae Pass intersection. The restaurant is easy to find and there is parking available right in front of the building.Opening hours are 11:00 AM to 9:30 PM daily, with the last order at 8:45 PM.
The first thing that stands out when arriving is the large lawn and traditional hanok-style architecture. The restaurant exterior feels peaceful and clean, and the lighting outside looks especially beautiful in the evening.
Once seated, the staff brings a kettle of warm beef broth (onyuksu), which is perfect to sip before the meal. Because I visited slightly after the lunch rush, the restaurant felt relaxed and quiet. The interior uses a white and wood color palette, creating a modern yet traditional hanok atmosphere that feels comfortable and calm.
Inside, the exposed wooden rafters give the dining room a classic Korean architectural feel. One small detail I liked was that each table had its own small trash bin, which made the table more convenient to use.
I chose a seat near the window, where traditional hanok-style windows add to the atmosphere. From the window you
can see the nearby café Near and Dear. If you bring your receipt from Madang, the café offers a 10% discount.
On the table you’ll find the menu along with bottled water, vinegar, mustard, and pepper for seasoning the noodles to your preference. Water is served in 500ml bottles, and paper cups are provided. Water is free In Korea.
The main dishes include mul naengmyeon, bibim naengmyeon, and hoe naengmyeon, each priced at 10,000 KRW. There are also Korean dishes such as galbitang, dumpling soup, braised short ribs, spicy webfoot octopus, and bulgogi with water parsley.
A popular option is the set menu, which includes one naengmyeon and braised short ribs for 22,000 KRW per person.
Side dishes include young radish kimchi and shredded radish, along with pickled onions served with the meal. If you need more, you can refill them at the self-service side dish bar.
The mul naengmyeon (cold noodle soup) arrived with slices of pear, cucumber, boiled egg, sesame seeds, and a slice of boiled pork on top.
The portion size was generous. The broth tasted slightly milder than typical Hamheung naengmyeon, which made it refreshing. You can easily adjust the flavor with mustard and vinegar available on the table.
Next was the hoe naengmyeon, topped with marinated raw fish. The seasoning wasn’t overly spicy, which made it easy to enjoy even for people who are sensitive to spicy food. Like the mul naengmyeon, the bowl was quite large and filling.
We also ordered braised short ribs (galbijjim) as part of the set menu. Large king oyster mushrooms were included, and the meat was tender and easy to eat.
After cutting the ribs with scissors, the meat soaked nicely in the savory sauce. It was flavorful but not too heavy. This dish would be a good option if you’re dining with family or kids.
The portion sizes are:
Small – 42,000 KRW
Medium – 56,000 KRW
Large – 69,000 KRW
At first the ribs looked a little small compared to the noodles, but once we started eating, the portion felt perfect for two people sharing with naengmyeon.
After the meal, we walked next door to Near and Dear Café, which offers a discount for customers from Madang.
The café has both indoor and outdoor seating. The outdoor tables looked nice, though we decided to sit inside since the weather was cloudy.
The café menu includes coffee, non-coffee drinks, ade, and tea. Signature drinks include Madang Latte, Cream Latte, Einspänner, and a unique drink combining flat white with green tea ice cream. I ordered Madang Latte and Green Tea Affogato.
The bakery display included waffles and handmade cookies. Some items were already sold out, but the thick cookies looked especially tempting.
Madang Latte is topped with vanilla ice cream, homemade cream, and a small mochi, finished with green tea powder. It’s served iced only and costs 7,500 KRW.
The green tea affogato combines matcha ice cream with espresso, topped with cocoa powder and chocolate. It costs 6,500 KRW.
Like the restaurant, the café also features a hanok-inspired design with warm lighting, creating a cozy and relaxing atmosphere. Both Madang and Near and Dear felt like great places for many occasions — family meals, dates, outings with friends, or dining with parents.
If you’re looking for a good naengmyeon restaurant in Sinhyeon-ri, Gwangju, Madang is definitely worth visiting. The traditional hanok setting, satisfying noodle dishes, and tender galbijjim create a great dining experience.
Since the café next door offers a discount with your receipt, it’s also a perfect place to continue the visit with coffee and dessert. For anyone exploring restaurants in this area of Gyeonggi-do, this spot is a solid recommendation.