La Cocina by Lee Seong-yong la cocina by 이성용

La Cocina by Lee Seong-yong is a Spanish restaurant in Chodang-dong, Gangneung, on Gangwon Province's eastern coast, operated by Chef Lee Seong-yong. The restaurant has built a loyal following over the years by delivering an authentic Spanish dining experience in this seaside city. Its signature offering is a set-course format that walks diners through a progression of Spanish dishes, starting with Ibérico jamón served alongside olive bread, tomato sauce, and melon as an opener, followed by a warm cheese-and-arugula salad, fresh raw oysters, cheese dumplings, paella, gambas al ajillo, and finishing with aglio e olio pasta. The gambas stand out for their firm, bouncy shrimp, and the grilled cuttlefish is another consistently praised option. A five-course paella set runs around 45,000 won, representing solid value for the quality and breadth of dishes served. The interior carries a distinctly Mediterranean aesthetic, creating an atmosphere suited for leisurely evening meals. Staff provide detailed explanations of each course as it arrives, making the restaurant accessible to those unfamiliar with Spanish cuisine. Wine pairing or a glass of blood orange sparkling complements the meal well. Reservations are strongly recommended, as the restaurant regularly fills to capacity on weekday evenings and weekends alike.