Best Korean Restaurants In Koreatown NYC

Discover the Top Korean Restaurants in Koreatown NYC

If you’re looking for an authentic Korean dining experience in New York City, then Koreatown is the place to be. From traditional dishes to modern fusion cuisine, you’ll find a wide range of Korean restaurants that cater to all tastes and preferences. In this article, we’ll take you through the best Korean restaurants in Koreatown NYC.

Why Visit Koreatown?

Koreatown is a vibrant and bustling neighborhood in Manhattan that is famous for its Korean restaurants, karaoke bars, and spas. It’s a popular destination for both tourists and locals who want to experience a different culture and cuisine. With over 100 Korean restaurants in the area, you’re sure to find something that suits your taste buds.

What Makes Korean Cuisine So Popular?

Korean cuisine is known for its bold flavors, healthy ingredients, and unique cooking techniques. Many of the dishes are made with fermented ingredients, such as kimchi, which gives them a distinctive taste. Korean cuisine is also famous for its BBQ dishes, which are grilled right at the table. It’s a social and interactive way of dining that is perfect for groups.

The Best Korean Restaurants in Koreatown NYC

Here are our top picks for the best Korean restaurants in Koreatown NYC, based on food quality, service, ambiance, and overall experience.

1. Kang Ho Dong Baekjeong 🍢

Kang Ho Dong Baekjeong is one of the most popular Korean BBQ restaurants in Koreatown NYC. The restaurant is named after its owner, a former wrestler and TV personality in Korea. The menu features a variety of BBQ meats, including pork belly, beef tongue, and short ribs, as well as traditional Korean dishes like bibimbap and kimchi stew. The restaurant has a fun and lively atmosphere, with K-pop music playing in the background.

2. Jungsik 🍣

Jungsik is a Michelin-starred Korean restaurant that offers a modern and elegant dining experience. The menu features Korean-inspired dishes with a contemporary twist, such as foie gras bibimbap and beef tartare with Korean pear. The restaurant also has an impressive wine list, with over 2,000 bottles to choose from.

3. Her Name is Han 🍤

Her Name is Han is a cozy and charming Korean restaurant that serves homestyle dishes made with fresh and locally sourced ingredients. The menu features classic Korean dishes like bulgogi and japchae, as well as modern fusion dishes like Korean fried chicken and kimchi mac and cheese. The restaurant also has a great selection of soju and makgeolli, traditional Korean alcoholic beverages.

4. Miss Korea 🍥

Miss Korea is a chic and modern Korean restaurant that offers a wide range of dishes, from traditional BBQ to contemporary fusion cuisine. The menu features classic dishes like galbi and jajangmyeon, as well as unique creations like truffle bibimbap and kimchi arancini. The restaurant also has a rooftop lounge where you can enjoy cocktails and panoramic views of the city.

5. BCD Tofu House 🍦

BCD Tofu House is a popular chain of Korean restaurants that specializes in tofu soup and other hearty soups and stews. The menu features a variety of tofu dishes, as well as meat and seafood options. The restaurant also offers a complimentary Korean-style salad bar with every meal.

6. Hanjan 🍧

Hanjan is a trendy and modern Korean restaurant that offers a unique dining experience. The menu features small plates of Korean-inspired dishes, such as crispy pork belly and spicy rice cakes. The restaurant also has a great selection of Korean spirits, including soju and makgeolli.

7. Jeju Noodle Bar 🍨

Jeju Noodle Bar is a Korean restaurant that specializes in noodle dishes and small plates. The menu features dishes like black bean noodles and spicy seafood udon, as well as creative dishes like uni bibim and duck ramen. The restaurant also offers a selection of cocktails and sake.

8. Cho Dang Gol 🍩

Cho Dang Gol is a cozy and casual Korean restaurant that serves traditional dishes like bibimbap and bulgogi, as well as soups and stews. The restaurant is known for its homemade tofu, which is made fresh daily. The restaurant also has a great selection of banchan, traditional Korean side dishes.

9. Pocha 32 🍪

Pocha 32 is a Korean restaurant that specializes in Korean-style street food and pub grub. The menu features dishes like fried chicken, tteokbokki, and cheesy corn, as well as Korean-style cocktails and beer. The restaurant has a fun and lively atmosphere, with K-pop music and TV screens playing Korean dramas.

10. Atoboy 🍫

Atoboy is a Korean restaurant that offers a unique and creative dining experience. The menu features small plates of Korean-inspired dishes that are meant to be shared, such as octopus with kimchi and pork belly with rice cakes. The restaurant also has a great selection of natural wines from around the world.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1. What Is Koreatown?

A1. Koreatown is a neighborhood in Manhattan that is known for its Korean restaurants, karaoke bars, and spas. It’s a popular destination for both tourists and locals who want to experience a different culture and cuisine.

Q2. What Are the Most Popular Korean Dishes?

A2. Some of the most popular Korean dishes include bibimbap, bulgogi, kimchi, and Korean BBQ.

Q3. What Is Korean BBQ?

A3. Korean BBQ is a style of grilling meat that is cooked right at the table. The meat is marinated in a mixture of soy sauce, sugar, garlic, and sesame oil, and then grilled over charcoal or gas. It’s a social and interactive way of dining that is perfect for groups.

Q4. What Is Kimchi?

A4. Kimchi is a traditional Korean dish made from fermented vegetables, usually napa cabbage. It’s spicy and tangy and is often served as a side dish. It’s also used in many Korean dishes as a flavoring agent.

Q5. What Is Soju?

A5. Soju is a traditional Korean alcoholic beverage that is similar to vodka. It’s made from rice, wheat, or barley and is usually served in small shot glasses. It’s a popular drink in Korea and is often consumed with Korean BBQ.

Q6. What Is Makgeolli?

A6. Makgeolli is a traditional Korean alcoholic beverage that is made from rice or wheat. It’s a milky-white color and has a slightly sweet and sour taste. It’s often served in bowls and is a popular drink in Korea.

Q7. Are Korean Restaurants Expensive?

A7. Korean restaurants in Koreatown NYC can range from cheap eats to fine dining. You can find a variety of options to fit your budget.

Q8. Do Korean Restaurants Offer Vegetarian Options?

A8. Yes, many Korean restaurants offer vegetarian options. Tofu dishes, vegetable stews, and bibimbap are all popular vegetarian options.

Q9. Do Korean Restaurants Offer Gluten-free Options?

A9. Yes, many Korean restaurants offer gluten-free options. Rice-based dishes, soups, and stews are all gluten-free options.

Q10. Do Korean Restaurants Accept Credit Cards?

A10. Yes, most Korean restaurants in Koreatown NYC accept credit cards. However, it’s always a good idea to check beforehand.

Q11. Do I Need to Make a Reservation at a Korean Restaurant?

A11. It depends on the restaurant and the time of day. Some restaurants are walk-in only, while others require reservations. It’s always a good idea to check beforehand, especially for popular restaurants.

Q12. What Is the Dress Code for Korean Restaurants?

A12. Most Korean restaurants in Koreatown NYC have a casual dress code. However, for fine dining restaurants, it’s best to dress up a bit.

Q13. What Are the Operating Hours for Korean Restaurants?

A13. Operating hours vary by restaurant. Most Korean restaurants in Koreatown NYC are open for lunch and dinner, but some may have different hours. It’s always a good idea to check beforehand.