Korean tables are built for sharing: banchan arrive first, grilled meat or stews follow, and the fermented elements — kimchi, doenjang, gochujang — carry the flavour.
In New York the Korean list is led by Atomix in Koreatown (Two MICHELIN Stars, Approx. $325 USD per person per person). If you want the same cooking for less, Kochi at Approx. $125-$150 USD per person is the value pick.
- 1.
Atomix
Two MICHELIN StarsKorean Counter Dining · Koreatown · Approx. $325 USD per person
Junghyun Park
Atomix offers an intimate and highly personalized dining experience at its stunning 14-seat counter. Chef Park's tasting menu is a modern interpretation of Korean cuisine, presented with detailed 'cards' explaining each dish's ingredients and cultural significance. It’s an immersive, educational, and delicious journey through innovative flavors and techniques, redefining Korean fine dining.
Order: Uni Bibimbap; Scallop with Doenjang Vinaigrette
- 2.
Kochi
One MICHELIN StarKorean Skewers · Hell's Kitchen · Approx. $125-$150 USD per person
Sungchul Shim
Kochi delivers a focused and exquisite nine-course skewer-based tasting menu rooted in traditional Korean flavors. Chef Sungchul Shim elevates humble ingredients into sophisticated, artfully presented dishes, each a bite-sized marvel. The intimate setting and thoughtful progression of flavors create a memorable and distinctive dining experience that reimagines Korean cuisine for a modern palate.
Order: Scallop Skewer with Truffle; Beef Tenderloin Skewer
Booking a Korean table in New York
- · For three-Michelin-starred restaurants, book 2-3 months in advance precisely when reservations open, typically at a specific time on the first day of the month for subsequent months. Use Tock or Resy alerts.
- · Many top establishments, particularly those with tasting menus, require a deposit or full pre-payment upon booking. Be aware of strict cancellation policies, often non-refundable within 72 hours.
- · Consider weekday lunch menus at starred restaurants; they often offer a more accessible price point for a similar culinary experience. Reservations for lunch are generally easier to secure.
- · No-show policies are rigorously enforced; ensure you cancel within the specified timeframe to avoid substantial charges. Confirm your reservation 24-48 hours prior if requested by the restaurant.
And the local dishes in New York
New York-style Pizza
Characterized by its large, thin, foldable slices with a crispy crust. It's often sold by the slice and topped with tomato sauce and mozzarella. Locals enjoy it as a quick, satisfying meal. Find excellent slices at Joe's Pizza in Greenwich Village or Lombardi's in Nolita.
Bagels with Lox and Cream Cheese
A quintessential New York breakfast. A dense, chewy bagel, often hand-rolled and boiled before baking, slathered with cream cheese and topped with thin slices of smoked salmon (lox), capers, and red onion. Absolute must-try at Russ & Daughters or Ess-a-Bagel.
Pastrami on Rye
A towering sandwich featuring hot, thinly sliced, spiced and smoked beef brisket, served on rye bread with mustard and a pickle. This deli classic is a hearty and flavorful New York institution. Katz's Delicatessen is the legendary spot for this iconic sandwich.
New York Cheesecake
Denser and richer than other cheesecakes, typically made with cream cheese, heavy cream, and eggs, resulting in a smooth, velvety texture on a graham cracker crust. It's often served plain or with a simple fruit topping. Eileen's Special Cheesecake is a beloved spot.
Other cuisines in New York
Seven days in New York
Pair these Korean tables with the full itinerary: neighbourhoods, museums and what to skip.
Read the New York travel guide