Best Affordable Korean Restaurants in Upper West Side | Affordable Korean Food

7 restaurants in Best Affordable Korean Restaurants in Upper West Side | Affordable Korean Food

• Virgil's Real BBQ - Upper West Side — American · rated 4.7/5: Located in the heart of the Upper West Side, Virgil's Real BBQ is a beloved barbecue joint known for its classic meat dishes like brisket and ribs, alongside comfort food favorites. With a welcoming atmosphere, it's perfect for solo diners or large parties. The friendly staff is frequently praised, making every visit enjoyable. Don't miss the mac and cheese, or the banana pudding for dessert!
• Chick Chick — Korean · rated 4.6/5: Chick Chick pulses with a vibrant energy, where the irresistible aroma of double-fried chicken and simmering spices fills a sleek, modern space. Each piece of poultry arrives with a glass-like crunch that gives way to tender meat glazed in bold, umami-rich sauces, while steaming bowls of savory noodles offer a comforting, aromatic embrace. It is a spirited destination where the fiery heat of gochugaru meets the cool crispness of pickled radish, creating a soulful celebration of contemporary Korean comfort food.
• Plum Vietnamese Restaurant — Vietnamese · rated 4.5/5: Nestled in the Central Park West Historic District, Plum Vietnamese Restaurant offers a cozy, relaxed ambiance perfect for lunch or dinner. Enjoy traditional Vietnamese comfort foods like pho and banh mi, alongside delightful dishes such as kimchi fries and chive pancakes. Catering to various preferences, the menu includes vegetarian options and happy hour drinks. Guests praise the attentive staff and quick service, making every visit a memorable one.
• Au Jus — French · rated 4.2/5: Nestled in the heart of Bloomingdale, Au Jus offers a delightful BBQ experience with a wide range of comfort foods such as brisket, ribs, and pulled pork. The informal setting is perfect for families, complete with high chairs for the little ones. Guests rave about the fast and friendly service, as well as the delicious offerings from mac and cheese to banana pudding. With options for dine-in, takeout, and delivery, Au Jus ensures a great meal for any occasion. Enjoy their selection of beer, wine, and cocktails while soaking in the casual atmosphere.
• Izzy's Brooklyn Smokehouse — American: Brooklyn energy meets the low-and-slow soul of a traditional smokehouse, where the air is thick with the intoxicating scent of hickory and smoldering spice. Tender, house-smoked brisket and succulent pulled beef find new life in crispy empanadas and street-style tacos, blending classic barbecue techniques with vibrant global accents like adobo and Korean glaze. Each dish offers a masterclass in texture and heat, from the satisfying crunch of golden egg rolls to the rich, savory depth of loaded fries, creating a destination for bold, soulful comfort food with an urban edge.
• Sido — Korean: Sido invites guests into a vibrant sanctuary where the smoky aroma of grilled meats and the bright tang of fresh herbs fill the air. Golden, crisp falafel and velvet-smooth hummus take center stage on communal tables, creating a soulful dining experience that honors the timeless, sun-drenched traditions of Middle Eastern hospitality.
• Chick Chick — Korean: This high-energy eatery transforms the humble fried chicken into a global flavor odyssey, where the shatteringly crisp skin of every piece gives way to succulent, tender meat. Diners navigate a map of heat and sweetness, from the fiery kick of Nashville-inspired sandwiches to the sticky, umami-rich glazes of Korean gochujang and Thai sweet chili. Each plate, from golden wings to "heavenly" honey-soy bites, delivers a satisfying symphony of texture and spice that elevates the casual dining experience.