Best Upscale Korean Restaurants in Union Square | Upscale Korean Food

30 restaurants in Best Upscale Korean Restaurants in Union Square | Upscale Korean Food

• Noona's — Korean · rated 5/5: Noona’s transforms the simple joy of a frozen treat into a sophisticated exploration of heritage and whimsy, where the air is sweet with the scent of toasted grains and warm spices. Silky scoops of earthy matcha and vibrant ube latte mingle with playful, texture-rich creations like crunchy honeycomb and chewy banana pudding mochi. It is a modern creamery that celebrates cross-cultural flavors, inviting guests to rediscover nostalgic comforts through a bold, artisanal lens.
• Hee Korean BBQ Grill — Korean · rated 4.9/5: The air at Hee Korean BBQ Grill hums with the intoxicating aroma of caramelizing soy and sesame as premium marbled meats sizzle over tabletop flames. This lively culinary theater invites guests to become the chef, pairing charred, tender cuts with a vibrant tapestry of fermented banchan that offer a refreshing crunch and a spicy kick to every communal bite.
• EJ BBQ & Sushi — Japanese · rated 4.8/5: Nestled in Chelsea, EJ BBQ & Sushi is a newly opened gem offering a delightful blend of Japanese and Korean comfort food. With a menu featuring fresh sushi, sashimi, bulgogi, and kimchi, the restaurant caters to both casual diners and families alike. Praised for its friendly service and welcoming ambiance, EJ BBQ & Sushi offers a range of healthy options and small plates at an affordable price point.
• Mokyo — Korean · rated 4.7/5: Mokyo pulses with a moody, industrial energy where the glow of the open kitchen illuminates a space defined by exposed brick and intimate, candlelit tables. Small plates arrive in a vibrant parade of textures, blending traditional Korean soul with global inspiration to create bold, shared bites that dance between spicy, sweet, and deeply savory. This sensory journey invites guests to linger over inventive cocktails and flame-kissed dishes in an atmosphere of effortless urban cool.
• Jua — Korean · rated 4.7/5: Bathed in the warm, amber glow of an open wood-fired hearth, this sophisticated space invites guests to witness the primal dance of flame and smoke. Traditional Korean techniques are reimagined through a refined lens, resulting in a rhythmic progression of charred, fermented, and deeply soul-warming flavors that celebrate the ancient art of the grill. Each course balances rustic intensity with the delicate elegance of modern Seoul, creating an intimate dining experience that feels both timeless and innovative.
• Mista Oh — Korean · rated 4.7/5: Nestled in the heart of the Flatiron District, Mista Oh is a family-owned gem that delights with traditional Korean barbecue. Open for dine-in and takeout, this casual eatery offers a menu rich in healthy, organic, and vegetarian options. With cozy ambiance and fast, friendly service, popular dishes like bulgogi, kimchi fried rice, and bibimbap promise a memorable experience. Happy hour specials and large portions add to the charm, making Mista Oh a must-visit destination for delicious Korean cuisine.
• PLNT Burger — American · rated 4.7/5: Located at 11 W 42nd St, New York, PLNT Burger is a plant-based haven in Midtown West. Here, you'll find American classics like burgers, fries, and shakes made from plant-based ingredients. Popular choices include the chicken sandwich, mushroom BBQ bacon burger, and patty melt. Visitors appreciate the cozy ambiance, kid-friendly atmosphere, and excellent staff. Affordable at $10-$20, it’s perfect for a tasty lunch or dinner.
• Appas Pizza — Italian · rated 4.7/5: Nestled in the heart of the East Village, Appas Pizza offers a unique twist on traditional pizza by blending it with Korean culinary flavors. From kimchi and bulgogi pizzas to chicken and waffle fries, the menu promises a delightful fusion dining experience. With a cozy atmosphere and attentive staff, it's a perfect spot for groups to enjoy a meal. Open daily from 11 AM to midnight, reservations are welcome. Visit Appas Pizza at 210 1st Ave., New York, or call +1 929-280-0921.
• 꽃 — Korean · rated 4.6/5: Named for the Korean word for flower, this elegant sanctuary transforms traditional flavors into a blooming sensory journey where the earthy aroma of fermented soy and the sizzle of marinated meats fill the air. Each plate arrives as a vibrant canvas of seasonal banchan and soul-warming stews, balancing the fiery heat of chili with the delicate, refined artistry of a modern Seoul kitchen.
• Oiji Mi — Korean · rated 4.6/5: Bathed in a warm, golden glow, this sophisticated sanctuary reimagines Korean tradition through a lens of modern luxury and artistic precision. Each meticulously plated course unfolds as a symphony of bold ferments and delicate textures, inviting guests to linger over innovative flavors amidst an atmosphere of plush velvet and polished refinement.
• Ariari — Korean · rated 4.6/5: Ariari pulses with the vibrant energy of a Busan seaside market, where the air is thick with the savory scent of sizzling seafood and fermented spices. Guests gather around tables laden with colorful banchan and steaming stone pots, sharing plates that balance bold heat with delicate, ocean-fresh flavors. This spirited space captures the soul of Korean coastal dining, offering a lively escape where traditional techniques meet a contemporary, urban pulse.
• Handsome Rice — Korean · rated 4.6/5: This minimalist urban sanctuary elevates the traditional Korean lunchbox into a vibrant art form, where the nutty aroma of toasted sesame oil mingles with the savory sizzle of perfectly charred, soy-glazed proteins. Each thoughtfully composed bowl balances a kaleidoscope of crisp, seasonal banchan against the deep, fermented warmth of house-made sauces, offering a soulful and sophisticated reimagining of classic comfort food.
• Odre — Korean · rated 4.6/5: Odre captures the vibrant spirit of modern Seoul, welcoming diners into a sophisticated space where the rhythmic sizzle of the grill meets the complex, earthy depths of traditional fermentation. Each plate is a sensory journey that honors ancestral techniques through a contemporary lens, pairing bold, smoky proteins with the bright, acidic pop of artisanal banchan to create a truly soulful dining experience.
• Anytime Street St.Marks — Korean · rated 4.6/5: Located in the heart of New York at 34 St Marks Pl, Anytime Street St.Marks is a casual Korean eatery with a menu of delectable choices like bulgogi, chicken bowls, and popcorn chicken. Known for its speed and affordability, this spot offers both dine-in and takeout options. It's perfect for those seeking a quick, satisfying meal in the bustling city. Don't miss out on their unique drinks and desserts!
• Two Hands Corn Dogs — Korean · rated 4.6/5: Two Hands Corn Dogs, located at 250 Mott St in NYC, offers a casual dining experience with quick and friendly service. Specializing in Korean-style corn dogs, popular options include the potato dog, mozzarella dog, and crispy rice dog. Complement your meal with kimchi fries or dirty fries. With affordable prices and seating available outside, it's an ideal spot for a tasty and convenient bite.
• Atoboy — Korean · rated 4.5/5: Stepping into this minimalist NoMad enclave, diners are greeted by an industrial-chic atmosphere where the traditional Korean art of banchan is transformed into a sophisticated, multi-course journey. Vibrant small plates burst with the complexity of fermentation and the crunch of seasonal textures, creating a high-energy communal experience that feels both deeply rooted in heritage and daringly modern.
• Bonchon 23rd St — Korean · rated 4.5/5: Nestled in the heart of Chelsea, Bonchon 23rd St offers a delightful Asian fusion dining experience that focuses on Korean-style fried chicken and a variety of traditional Asian dishes. This family-friendly eatery has a casual atmosphere and is perfect for both dine-in and takeout. Guests rave about the crispy chicken and fast, attentive service. With a rating of 4.5 and a robust menu that includes beer and wine, it's a great spot to enjoy a flavorful meal.
• Mad for Chicken Chelsea — Korean · rated 4.5/5: Mad for Chicken Chelsea offers a delightful dining experience featuring Korean-style fried chicken, chicken sandwiches, and fries served in a casual setting. Located at 153 8th Ave, New York, this family-friendly restaurant is perfect for groups and rated 4.5 stars. The menu caters to lunch and dinner with options for delivery and takeout. Enjoy a pleasant ambiance with attentive service and reasonable prices.
• Baji Baji — Korean · rated 4.5/5: Baji Baji, located at 145 1st Ave., New York, offers a delightful casual dining experience with its Chinese cuisine. Open for lunch and dinner, it includes vegetarian options and is family-friendly. Payment is convenient with credit, debit, and NFC cards accepted. With a 4.5-star rating from 141 reviews, it’s a popular choice, especially for its flavorful dishes like General Tso chicken and house fried rice. Ideal for takeout and delivery.
• Barn Joo — Korean · rated 4.4/5: Barn Joo transforms the traditional Korean tavern into a rustic-chic retreat, where reclaimed wood and soft, amber lighting create an atmosphere of spirited warmth. The kitchen sends out a parade of vibrant shared plates, from the satisfying crunch of soy-garlic wings to the deep, earthy sizzle of stone-pot rice, all complemented by inventive cocktails that bridge the gap between Seoul and New York. It is a lively social hub where bold, soulful flavors meet a modern urban pulse, making every meal feel like a communal celebration.
• Barn Joo Union Square — Korean · rated 4.4/5: Nestled in the heart of Midtown Manhattan's Union Square, Barn Joo Union Square is a modern Korean-inspired gastropub that delights with its farm-to-table fare and creative cocktails. With a cozy bar, vibrant atmosphere, and friendly, attentive staff, it's perfect for any outing. The menu features Korean barbecue, bibimbap, truffle fries, and oysters, along with ample vegetarian options. Happy hour is a must-try, and don't forget to spin the wheel for a fun prize!
• So Gong Dong Tofu & BBQ SGD — Korean · rated 4.4/5: Welcome to So Gong Dong Tofu & BBQ SGD, a trendy Korean eatery in Palisades Park's Koreatown. Nestled on the second floor, this casual restaurant is perfect for a quick bite, offering a range of traditional Korean dishes like bibimbap, tofu stew, and seafood pancake. Loved by families and solo diners alike, the spot boasts attentive service and a comfortable, family-friendly atmosphere. Enjoy affordable, flavorful meals ranging from $10-$20. Call +1 201-313-5550 to reserve your table today.
• Moko — Korean · rated 4.3/5: Moko captures the electric energy of Seoul, where the intoxicating aroma of toasted sesame and fermented chili drifts through a sleek, contemporary space. Diners gather over bubbling stone pots and platters of caramelized bulgogi, sharing a vibrant tapestry of banchan that balances fiery heat with cool, crisp textures. It is a sensory journey that honors deep-rooted traditions while embracing a modern spirit, turning every communal meal into a soulful celebration of Korean hospitality.
• Cafe Water — Korean · rated 4.3/5: Cafe Water offers a serene, light-filled sanctuary where the clean lines of modern design meet the comforting, steam-filled warmth of traditional Korean soul food. The air hums with the sizzle of marinated meats and the pungent, inviting aroma of aged kimchi, inviting diners to linger over vibrant stone bowls that balance fiery spice with delicate, earthy undertones. It is a space where the ritual of shared banchan and artfully plated classics create a dining experience that feels both deeply rooted in heritage and refreshingly contemporary.
• Mason Jar NYC — American · rated 4.3/5: At Mason Jar NYC, enjoy a range of BBQ plates, burgers, and craft beers in a casual space perfect for watching sports. With a 4.3-star rating from 732 reviews, it’s a hit for families and groups, offering a kid-friendly menu and plenty of food options, including brunch and vegetarian dishes. Conveniently located at 43 E 30th St, New York, it’s a great spot to dine, catch a game, or enjoy a leisurely brunch.
• Pelicana Chicken — Korean · rated 4.2/5: Pelicana Chicken invites diners into a high-energy haven where the legendary crunch of double-fried crusts meets a kaleidoscope of bold, signature glazes. From the sweet heat of traditional gochujang to the savory depth of soy-garlic, each succulent bite delivers a sensory explosion that transforms a casual meal into a vibrant celebration of Korean soul food.
• ZLS BBQ — Chinese · rated 4.2/5: The air at ZLS BBQ hums with high-energy conversation and the intoxicating scent of toasted cumin and chili drifting from rows of skewers sizzling over glowing charcoal. This lively destination captures the soul of Chinese street food, where guests feast on perfectly charred meats and spiced vegetables in an atmosphere that feels like a vibrant, late-night celebration of smoke and flavor.
• Dallas BBQ — American · rated 4.1/5: Neon lights and the hum of a lively crowd set the stage at this high-energy destination where oversized frozen cocktails in every color of the rainbow serve as the centerpiece for every table. The air is thick with the sweet, smoky aroma of glazed ribs and crispy rotisserie chicken, promising a feast of bold American flavors served in legendary proportions. It’s a boisterous celebration of comfort food and social spirit, where the generous platters are matched only by the vibrant, unpretentious atmosphere.
• Tim Ho Wan — Chinese · rated 4.1/5: Steaming bamboo baskets arrive in a rhythmic dance at this bustling dim sum sanctuary, where the air is perfumed with the savory-sweet aroma of legendary baked BBQ pork buns. Each bite-sized treasure, from translucent, hand-pleated dumplings to golden-crusted pastries, showcases a masterclass in Cantonese precision amidst a vibrant, high-energy atmosphere. It is a place where the humble art of the dumpling is elevated to a sensory celebration, inviting diners to share in a continuous parade of meticulously crafted small plates.
• Tim Ho Wan East Village — Chinese · rated 4.1/5: Nestled in New York's East Village, Tim Ho Wan offers an inviting dining experience centered around their famed hand-crafted dim sum. Specializing in items like the world-famous BBQ pork buns, this branch of the renowned Hong Kong-based chain brings both quality and tradition to the table. Enjoy a diverse menu that includes standout dishes like siu mai and bean curd wrapped shrimp, all paired with quick, attentive service. Open daily for brunch through dinner-perfect for satisfying your dim sum cravings.