Damgeuda — Restaurant in Haverhill

Small Korean-inspired bistro serving some of the most thoughtful fusion dishes I’ve had in Massachusetts. Might be my new favorite “Korean” restaurant in the state.

No idea how a place like this is all the way out in Haverhill. Chef with experiences at multiple Michelin starred restaurants (most likely Chef de Partie or Entremetier), and the flavor balance in most dishes were impeccable. Chef Gorrell’s approach blended Korean foundations with seasonal, often unconventional vegetables, which resulted in playful juxtaposition between sweet, savory, and acidic notes.

The Bibimbap and Kohlrabi salad were epitomes of such style. Vegetable-forward fusion dishes often get lost in complexity, but these were masterfully balanced. Bibimbap was the dish that instantly got me hooked on this place. A medley of pickled vegetables, with an unexpected but brilliant pop from crispy peas. Lotus root, bok choy, and other unconventional veggies made it more dynamic than most bibimbaps and somehow, it all came together without relying on a sauce.

The salad had beet miso cream for light umami, natural sweetness from kohlrabi and carrots, subtle saltiness from the house soy, and a nutty finish from pistachios. No flashy “signature” sauce. Again, just clean technique and intentional layering, and one of the best salads I’ve had in recent memory.

Other dishes that I really enjoyed were the Honey Garlic Chicken, Green Garlic Mandu, and the Apricot Pit Ice Cream. The chicken had a classic Korean flavor profile: sweet soy glaze with chili flake kick. But the chicken thigh was perfectly cooked. The $29 tofu-based dumplings initially made me hesitant, but the flavors were better than expected. Earthy green garlic dominated, but the arugula purée and crispy onions added sweet and tangy lift and crunch.

Suyuk was the least memorable dish of the evening. They likely rolled and tied the pork for uniform texture, but some lean parts were overcooked and packed too tightly, which resulted in dense, slightly dry slices. Still the fennel (sliced fine-dining style) subtly boosted the pork’s umami. Interesting execution, but not fully there.

Thankfully, the ice cream was a beautiful closer. Likely salted yogurt ice cream, which gave it a smoother texture and balanced the sweetness with tang and salt.

Highly recommend giving them a try. Would make the hour drive again to try their next...

Damgeuda is a charming small Korean restaurant run by an interesting and warm couple that truly makes you feel at home. As a Korean myself, I grew up eating my mom’s homemade dishes, so I have a good sense of what authentic Korean flavors taste like. While Damgeuda leans more toward a fusion or Americanized style of Korean cuisine—designed to cater to the American palate—I really appreciate their creative twists built from traditional recipes. It’s a unique blend that offers something both familiar and exciting.

One of the most impressive features of this restaurant is their homemade soy sauce, displayed proudly on the wall shelf. As someone who still brings homemade soy sauce from South Korea—crafted by my mom and over 50 years old—their soy sauce truly stands out. It’s rich, flavorful, and adds an incredible depth to dishes. Just two drops are enough to elevate the flavor of an entire soup or meal, which speaks to its quality and craftsmanship—nothing you can find in store-bought soy sauce can compare.

I’ve brought non-Korean friends here, and they all loved the food—remarking on how delicious and thoughtfully made everything was. It’s clear that Damgeuda is destined to have many loyal customers who appreciate their creative approach and authentic touches.

If you’re looking for a cozy spot with great fusion Korean food and an interesting story behind the ingredients, Damgeuda is a must-try. I’ll definitely...

The best new restaurant in Haverhill — and easily one of the most exciting in all of Essex County. Damgeuda is a true gem that raises the bar for food quality, presentation, and service. Every dish feels intentional and beautifully executed, creating a dining experience that’s both refined and deeply satisfying.

We started with the Celeriac Tart, easily one of the most memorable dishes I’ve had in years — buttery, flaky puff pastry with a creamy parsnip purée that’s pure comfort on a plate. The Nori Caesar surprised us with thinly sliced apple, cabbage, and grated preserved egg — a perfect balance of freshness and umami.

Don’t skip the housemade potato chips — impossibly thin, crisp, and dusted with a subtle, almost magical seasoning. My friend said, “These are the best potato chips I’ve ever eaten,” and I couldn’t agree more.

The short rib was melt-in-your-mouth tender, and the beet ragu was so rich and complex we’re still thinking about it days later.

Every element — from the thoughtful plating to the warm, attentive service — made the night feel special. HIGHLY recommend — Haverhill is lucky to have this new addition. Go soon before the...