On Netflix’s Black and White Chef, Manjitnam totally made waves as the “black spoon” chef with a super unique background—he learned to cook by diving into manga recipes! His creative, out-of-the-box thinking and killer cooking skills had the judges in awe during every challenge.
Now, Manjitnam runs Cho Kwang 201 in Seoul, serving up a mix of mouthwatering Chinese dishes, with a spotlight on Sichuan cuisine.
🍽️ Cho Kwang 201(조광 201)
- Address: 13 Saemal-ro 8-gil, 2nd Floor, Songpa-gu, Seoul
- Business Hours: Tuesday to Saturday, 18:00-23:00 (Closed on Sundays and Mondays)
- Contact: 0507-1392-0503
- Instagram: @cho__kwang
- Reservations: Catch Table app [ Click ]
Wanna snag a spot? You’ll need the Catch Table app! Reservations open every Tuesday at midnight, but be quick—they sell out fast. Thanks to his time on Black and White Chef, the restaurant has become even hotter. It’s a cozy, chic space, but because it’s on the smaller side, you might face some wait time.
🍜 Recommended dishes
1. Dongpo Pork (동파육 / ₩ 26,000)
This is the dish you can’t miss at Cho Kwang 201! It’s so popular that only 8 portions are available each day—so even if you book, you better be quick! The slow-cooked pork is melt-in-your-mouth soft, with aromatic spices giving it that extra oomph. It’s got that perfect mix of sweet and savory, especially when paired with bok choy and rice. You’ll be scraping the plate for sure!
2. Mala Xiang Guo (마라상궈 / ₩27,000)
If you’re into spicy, Mala Xiang Guo is gonna be your new go-to. It’s a sizzling stir-fry with tender meat, veggies, and tofu, all coated in Sichuan spices and chili oil for that mouth-tingling goodness. It’s the perfect partner for a cold drink, and while it’s spicy, it’s just the right amount that anyone can handle. Try it with lamb for a clean, fragrant twist that’ll leave you wanting more.
3. Mala Tang (마라탕 / ₩25,000)
Looking for a spicy soup that hits all the right spots? Mala Tang is your answer! The broth is rich, savory, and just spicy enough to keep things interesting. Packed with tender meat and balanced flavors, it’s a perfect match for a drink. If you’re new to spicy food, don’t sweat it—the chef can dial it down for you!
4. Stir-fried Clams (바지락볶음 / ₩ 18,000)
Big, juicy clams stir-fried in a mildly spicy sauce? Yes, please! Stir-fried Clams are bursting with seafood flavor and umami goodness. This dish goes perfectly with beer, and if you’re feeling fancy, add some noodles for extra fun. The spice level is mild, so anyone can dive in without fear.
5. Mapo Tofu (마파두부 / ₩15,000)
Cho Kwang 201’s Mapo Tofu is a real crowd-pleaser, with Chef Cho Kwang-ho perfecting this recipe over the years. Silky tofu swims in a spicy, rich mala sauce that pairs perfectly with rice. The numbing spice is just enough to keep it exciting without being too much. Trust us—it’s addictive!
If you’re craving some seriously good Sichuan flavors or just want to experience a unique spot in Seoul, Cho Kwang 201 is the place to be! With Manjitnam’s creative touch and a cozy vibe, it’s definitely worth the visit. Don’t forget to book early because tables fill up fast. Trust me, you won’t regret it—your taste buds will thank you! 😊
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