【Hongdae Pocha Yokohama】A Taste of Korea in the Heart of Yokohama – Must-Try UFO Chicken & Samgyeopsal!

07/22/202508/03/2025

Hi everyone! Today, I’m thrilled to introduce a hidden gem for Korean food lovers: Hongdae Pocha in Yokohama. Inspired by the buzzing street food scene of Seoul’s Hongdae area, this cozy Korean izakaya-style spot serves up everything from juicy UFO chicken and melt-in-your-mouth soy-marinated crab and cheesy Korean BBQ. The best part? It’s affordable, friendly, and typically not too crowded!

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What is Hongdae Pocha?

Inside Hongdae Pocha restaurant. The neon lights create the feel of Korean food stall.

Hongdae Pocha is a Korean restaurant chain designed to recreate the atmosphere of the night markets and street stalls in Seoul’s trendy Hongdae district. The food is made for sharing, the prices are wallet-friendly, and the vibe is casual and colorful — perfect for dinner with mates, a girls’ night out, or even a laid-back date.

There are around 10 locations across Tokyo and beyond, but the Yokohama branch is particularly convenient and usually easy to get into without much of a wait.

Basic Info – Hongdae Pocha Yokohama

Address: 4F, MS254 Building, 2-5-4 Minamisaiwai, Nishi-ku, Yokohama, Kanagawa
Access: 5-minute walk from Yokohama Station West Exit
Opening Hours: 12:00–23:30 (No lunch service on weekends and holidays)
Payment: Cash, credit card, some QR codes (like PayPay)
Smoking: Non-smoking throughout
Reservations: Accepted (recommended for evenings/weekends)

What’s the Vibe Like?

The interiors are bright and playful, with pops of neon and Korean pop art, giving it that street-style aesthetic. However, it’s not over-the-top; you can actually relax and enjoy your food in a relatively chill atmosphere. Most seating is at tables, making it perfect for small groups. Whether you’re here for a fun night with friends or a casual dinner for two, it suits all kinds of occasions.

Food Menu – A Korean Feast Worth Sharing

The menu covers a wide range of Korean classics — from Instagram-famous dishes to comforting street food staples.

Must-Try Dishes

UFO Chicken Set

It comes with cheese balls and prawn samgyeopsal. You get to choose two flavors (out of five), and the chicken is dipped into a gooey cheese ring at the center. The result? Pure cheesy goodness.

Ganjang Gejang (Soy-Marinated Crab)

A cult-favorite among Korean food lovers. The fresh raw crab soaked in rich soy sauce is packed with flavor and has a buttery texture that melts in your mouth.

Korean Pancakes (Seafood or Kimchi)

Crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside — and they go brilliantly with a cold beer. Other hits include Japchae (glass noodles), Yangnyeom Chicken, and grilled Samgyeopsal. Plenty of side dishes too, making it easy to order lots and share!

Drinks – From Traditional to Trendy

Korean-Style Sours

Think fruity and refreshing — white grape, lychee, and even vinegar-based health drinks like Hongcho turned into cocktails.

Makgeolli

Korea’s classic rice wine in many varieties — including peach and fresh draught-style. Try it by the glass or go full Korean and share a kettle!

Chamisul Soju

Available in loads of flavors — from the classic version to fun options like pomegranate and plum.

There’s also beer, soft drinks, and non-alcoholic choices if you’re not big on booze.

How to Order

Ordering is super easy: just scan the QR code at your table and use LINE to place your order. There’s no need to call for staff! However, if you do need help, there’s a call bell on the table. It’s a smooth and fuss-free process.

What We Ate – Our Honest Review

Table Charge Appetizers (300 yen)

It came with a tasty mix of pickled veg and quail eggs — a nice little starter.

UFO Chicken Set

In the middle is the cheese. In the front is a cheese ball, and on the side is chicken; at the far end is pork wrapped around shrimp, samgyeopsal.

We picked two flavors: Snow Cheese Powder and Soy Garlic. The boneless chicken was tender, flavorful, and perfectly balanced by the rich melted cheese. The cheese balls? Amazing — with a gooey rice cake (mochi) center that was super satisfying.

Cream Cheese & Spicy Pollack Roe Kimbap

Surprisingly not spicy, despite the vibrant red look. The combo of creamy cheese and crunchy chamchi jangjorim (spicy pollack) was spot on — one of our favorites of the night.

Wait Time & Reservations

We booked in advance, so we got seated right away! On weekends or during dinner hours, it can get busy — so it’s definitely worth making a reservation. That said, on weekdays it’s usually easy to walk in without too much of a wait.

Final Thoughts

Hongdae Pocha is the perfect spot for Korean food lovers who want to enjoy all the classics without traveling to Seoul. From the indulgent UFO Chicken to the iconic Ganjang Gejang, there’s so much to try, and it’s all served in a fun, laid-back setting. The self-ordering system and reservable tables make it hassle-free, too.
Next time you’re craving Korean comfort food, skip the queues and head to Hongdae Pocha Yokohama. You won’t be disappointed!