New York, the city that never sleeps, is a culinary haven offering countless options, from street food to Michelin-starred fine dining. If you’re a fan of Korean cuisine and are on the lookout for the best places to eat in New York, look no further. This article will provide you with tips to explore the exciting flavors of Korea right in the heart of this vibrant city.
Discover Koreatown in Midtown Manhattan
When it comes to Korean cuisine in New York, Koreatown in Midtown Manhattan is a must-mention. Though it’s not large in size, this area is packed with numerous restaurants, eateries, and bakeries offering authentic Korean flavors. From sizzling BBQ and steaming hot stews to delightful street foods, Koreatown promises to satisfy all your cravings.
Diverse Korean Cuisine in Koreatown
Koreatown is not only a place to enjoy familiar Korean dishes but also a chance to explore the diversity within Korean cuisine.
- BBQ Restaurants: Jongro BBQ is one of the most popular spots known for its high-quality BBQ meats. You can grill your meat over a charcoal grill and enjoy it with a variety of panchan (side dishes).
- Tofu Specialty Eateries: BCD Tofu House is the perfect spot for hot tofu dishes, especially their famous sundubu jjigae (spicy tofu stew). The restaurant also serves bibimbap (mixed rice) and many other enticing dishes.
- Street Food: Strolling around Koreatown, you’ll easily find stalls selling tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes), hotteok (sweet pancakes), and various other tempting street foods.
Koreatown street view
Tips for Choosing the Best Korean Restaurants in Koreatown
To find the best Korean restaurants in Koreatown, consider these tips:
- Check Online Reviews: Read reviews on websites like Yelp, Google Reviews, or food forums to get insights into the experiences of others who have visited.
- Ask Locals: Korean locals living in New York can be an excellent resource for discovering their favorite spots.
- Observe the Crowd: A busy restaurant, especially one filled with Korean patrons, often indicates high-quality food.
- Try Various Dishes: Don’t just focus on familiar dishes; venture out to try new ones to fully experience the depth of Korean cuisine.
Explore Beyond Koreatown: Other Areas in New York
Aside from Koreatown, you can also find great Korean restaurants in other parts of New York.
- Flushing, Queens: This area has a strong Korean community and is home to many restaurants serving traditional Korean dishes.
- Bayside, Queens: Like Flushing, Bayside is an attractive destination for those looking to explore Korean culinary delights.
- Murray Hill, Manhattan: This area hosts a number of upscale Korean restaurants, offering refined and creative dishes.
Must-Try Korean Dishes
No matter where you choose to dine, do not miss the chance to enjoy these dishes:
- Kimchi jjigae (kimchi stew): A spicy and savory stew made with kimchi, pork, and tofu is a staple in Korean meals.
- Bibimbap (mixed rice): A balanced and nutritious choice of rice mixed with vegetables, meat, and egg.
- Bulgogi (grilled beef): Marinated beef grilled over an open flame, offering an irresistible aroma.
- Japchae (stir-fried glass noodles): Sweet flavored noodles mixed with vegetables and meat, a light and delicious option.
- Korean fried chicken: Crispy fried chicken tossed in a sweet and spicy sauce that has won over many food lovers worldwide.
Chelsea Market exterior
Important Notes When Enjoying Korean Cuisine
- Panchan (side dishes): Most Korean eateries provide free panchan. It’s a great opportunity to sample various dishes and discover unique flavors.
- Sharing Culture: Koreans often share food. Don’t hesitate to taste others’ dishes and offer them some of yours.
- Order Wisely: Portions at Korean restaurants can be quite large. Order just enough to avoid waste.
- Prepare for Spiciness: Korean cuisine is known for its spicy dishes. If you can’t handle spice, ask for a milder version when ordering.
Conclusion
Finding the best Korean restaurant in New York is an exciting and adventurous journey. By using the tips shared in this article, you’ll be able to discover delightful dining spots and fully enjoy the distinctive flavors of Korean cuisine. Enjoy your culinary exploration in New York!