Korean fried chicken and tteokbokki at Gochujang. Credit: Douglas Trattner
There’s a new and different food option in the heart of Playhouse Square. Gochujang (1350 Euclid Ave.), which opened in September in the former Phuel space, offers a streamlined menu of Korean street foods. The cheery eatery occupies a sunny corner spot on Star Plaza.

The menu features a few main items plus various ways to mix those dishes in combination plates. An order of uber-crispy, panko-breaded Korean fried chicken ($7.50) arrives with a choice of sauces and the customary chicken-mu, or pickled radish cubes. Sauce options include Korean BBQ, spicy mayo, galbi and house jjajang.

An order of tteokbokki ($7.50) nets chewy rice cakes simmered in a spicy broth starring the namesake Korean chili paste: gochujang. Diners can add fish cakes or hard-cooked eggs. A milder version called rose tteokbokki dials back the heat.

For a filling, multi-dimensional treat, order the Korean street toast ($8.50). This sweet, savory, crunchy sandwich is loaded with ham, cheese, shredded cabbage and an egg patty. It’s finished with ample condiments, including mayo, ketchup, mustard and strawberry jam.

Other menu items include jjajangmyeon, linguine with pork and cabbage in a black bean sauce, miso soup, sugar-coated fried bread and french fries.

A small retail section offers grab-and-go Korean breads, beverages and instant noodles.

Korean street toast. Credit: Douglas Trattner
Grab-and-go bakery items. Credit: Douglas Trattner

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This article appears in Sep 25 – Oct 8, 2024.

For 25 years, Douglas Trattner has worked as a full-time freelance writer, editor and author. His work as co-author on Michael Symon's cookbooks have earned him four New York Times Best-Selling Author honors, while his longstanding role as Scene dining editor has garnered awards of its own.