So Gong Dong Tofu & BBQ SGD

- 118 Broad Ave 2nd FL, Palisades Park, NJ 07650

Welcome to a comprehensive guide for residents and visitors across New Jersey looking for an authentic and satisfying Korean dining experience. When the craving hits for the comforting warmth of a bubbling hot stew or the savory flavor of perfectly grilled meats, one name consistently rises to the top in the heart of Palisades Park: So Gong Dong Tofu & BBQ SGD.

This establishment, often simply referred to as SGD, is a cherished culinary destination within Bergen County’s vibrant Korean-American community. Far more than just a place to eat, So Gong Dong Tofu & BBQ SGD embodies the essence of traditional Korean hospitality and flavor, making it a must-visit spot for anyone seeking genuine, high-quality Korean comfort food in the Garden State.

The restaurant's name and mission are deeply rooted in Korean heritage, drawing inspiration from SoGong-Dong, a historical area in central Seoul known for its royal past. This commitment to tradition is reflected in every dish, maintaining authentic, time-honored recipes championed by the head chef. For New Jersey locals, especially those near Fort Lee, Englewood, and the greater Bergen County area, SGD offers a consistent and reliably delicious taste of Korea right on Broad Avenue.

So Gong Dong Tofu & BBQ SGD stands out for its specialty in two of Korea’s most beloved dishes: Soondubu Jjigae (soft tofu stew) and Korean BBQ, specifically their highly-praised LA Galbi (marinated beef short ribs). The combination of the silky, savory, and spicy stew, served sizzling hot, alongside the perfectly seasoned and tender grilled meats, creates a balanced and unforgettable meal. Diners consistently praise the restaurant for its fresh ingredients, bold traditional flavors, and the comforting quality of its food.

The atmosphere at SGD is designed to be inviting and cozy, making it an excellent choice for a variety of occasions—from a quick, flavorful lunch to a family-friendly dinner gathering. The ambiance is casual yet lively, perfectly suited for enjoying a communal meal and experiencing true Korean dining culture. It's a place where both seasoned Korean food enthusiasts and newcomers feel welcome and well-cared for.

So Gong Dong Tofu & BBQ SGD is strategically located in one of New Jersey’s most dynamic culinary areas: Palisades Park.

The full address for your GPS and navigation is: 118 Broad Ave 2nd FL, Palisades Park, NJ 07650, USA.

It is important for first-time visitors to note that the restaurant is situated on the second floor of a modest business plaza on Broad Avenue. While the location on the second floor can sometimes be a bit tricky to spot initially, the delicious food waiting upstairs is well worth the minor search.

The restaurant is committed to accessibility, featuring accommodations for all patrons. It offers a wheelchair-accessible entrance, a wheelchair-accessible parking lot, and wheelchair-accessible seating and restrooms, ensuring a comfortable visit for everyone.

Parking in the immediate vicinity is generally via paid street parking. Local customers often advise that parking can be challenging during peak hours, but it becomes more manageable and is typically free after sunset. Alternatively, checking neighborhood streets can sometimes yield a spot. Planning your visit outside of the busiest meal times, or being prepared to look for parking, is the best approach.

So Gong Dong Tofu & BBQ SGD provides a comprehensive set of services and dining options to cater to the diverse needs of the New Jersey community:

• Dining Options: Available for Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner.
• Seating: Offers comfortable table service and general seating for both small and large groups.
• Reservations: The restaurant accepts reservations, which is advisable for groups or during busy evening and weekend hours.
• Carry-Out: Offers both Takeout and Delivery options, allowing you to enjoy your favorite Korean dishes at home.
• Payment: Accepts multiple modern payment methods, including all major Credit Cards, Debit Cards, and NFC Mobile Payments.
• Family Amenities: Is considered Good for Kids and provides High Chairs for younger diners.

The core features of So Gong Dong Tofu & BBQ SGD that have earned it a loyal following in New Jersey are centered on food quality, service, and atmosphere:

• Soondubu Jjigae Specialization: The restaurant's signature dish is the Soondubu (soft tofu stew), which is offered in a wide variety of combinations (like Beef, Seafood, Kimchi, Oyster, and Vegetarian options) to satisfy any preference.
• Acclaimed Korean BBQ: Patrons rave about the grilled options, especially the marinated LA Galbi, which is consistently highlighted for its flavor and tenderness, though it is good to note that quality can sometimes vary slightly with the LA Galbi.
• Exceptional Banchan: The experience is elevated by the generous serving and quality of banchan (Korean side dishes) that accompany every meal. One particular standout, according to local reviews, is the stir-fried Fish Cake banchan, noted for its exceptional flavor and hint of anchovy. Customers appreciate the attentive service that often provides refills of these beloved sides.
• Authentic Korean Comfort Food: The menu is a perfect blend of comfort food and healthy options, featuring dishes like Bibimbap, Japchae, and various healthy stews, with clear Vegan options and Vegetarian options available for plant-based diets.
• Friendly and Attentive Service: The staff, particularly the servers, are noted for being consistently friendly, accommodating, and attentive, contributing to a pleasant dining experience.
• Atmosphere: The dining space is described as Casual, Cozy, and Trendy, making it suitable for a diverse crowd, including College Students, Families, Groups, Locals, and Tourists.
• Speed of Service: Despite being a popular spot, the restaurant is highlighted for its Fast Service, ensuring that you receive your hot meal promptly.

For all inquiries, including takeout orders or checking on table availability, please use the following information:

• Address: 118 Broad Ave 2nd FL, Palisades Park, NJ 07650, USA
• Phone Number: (201) 313-5550 or +1 201-313-5550

For any New Jersey local seeking a truly representative taste of Korean cuisine, So Gong Dong Tofu & BBQ SGD offers a compelling culinary experience. The main reason for its popularity is the quality and variety of its core menu items, particularly the signature Soondubu Jjigae. This dish, a bubbling cauldron of savory broth and silken soft tofu, is a specialty here and comes in numerous varieties to match your preferred spice level and protein. Whether you choose the classic Beef, the savory Seafood, or a vegetarian option, it is a guaranteed dish of comforting warmth.

Equally worth the visit is the Korean BBQ, especially the famous LA Galbi (BBQ Beef Short Ribs). Though occasionally reported to be slightly dry, the flavor is consistently praised, and it remains one of the most popular items on the menu. Pairing an order of the rich, sweet-and-savory LA Galbi with a soothing, spicy bowl of Soondubu is the quintessential meal at SGD.

Beyond the main dishes, the often-refilled Banchan is a high point of the dining experience, with the stir-fried Fish Cake being a local favorite that could be considered a delicious appetizer in its own right. Given the restaurant’s commitment to providing a friendly, authentic, and high-quality meal, So Gong Dong Tofu & BBQ SGD stands as a premier location for Korean food in the New Jersey dining landscape, especially for lunch or dinner. When you are looking for an authentic and satisfying meal in Palisades Park, choose the comforting classics and reliable hospitality of So Gong Dong.

So Gong Dong Tofu & BBQ SGD

118 Broad Ave 2nd FL, Palisades Park, NJ 07650, USA