Best Upscale Korean Restaurants in Washington Square | Upscale Korean Food

30 restaurants in Best Upscale Korean Restaurants in Washington 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.
• C as in Charlie — Korean · rated 4.8/5: This spirited NoHo haunt pulses with an infectious energy, where the soulful comfort of the American South seamlessly intertwines with the bold, fermented depths of Korean tradition. Small plates arrive in a flurry of steam and spice, reimagining familiar staples through a playful lens—from silky, marrow-rich creams to crispy, heat-dusted poultry that crackles with every bite. The intimate, communal atmosphere invites lingering conversations over creative cocktails, making each visit feel like a vibrant, cross-cultural celebration shared among friends.
• YUBU SoHo — Korean · rated 4.8/5: Nestled in the heart of SoHo, YUBU SoHo serves up delightful Korean comfort food, including yubu-wrapped sushi, quick bites, and coffee. With a menu brimming with healthy, vegetarian, and vegan options, this casual eatery is perfect for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. Fans rave about the spicy chicken, salmon, and crabmeat yubu. With friendly staff and a cozy ambiance, it's a charming spot where most meals cost between $10-$20.
• 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.
• 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.
• Piora — Korean · rated 4.6/5: Stepping into Piora feels like entering a serene, light-filled sanctuary where the soul of Korean cuisine is elevated through a lens of modern sophistication and artistic precision. The air hums with the delicate balance of earthy ferments and charred aromas, as each thoughtfully composed dish tells a story of seasonal harmony and deep-rooted tradition.
• 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!
• Rice Kitchen — Chinese · rated 4.6/5: Located in the heart of Soho, Rice Kitchen offers a delightful array of fast-serve Korean dishes, from hearty rice bowls to flavorful kimbap. Popular for its fresh ingredients and generous portions, this compact eatery ensures a quick and satisfying meal with fast service. Ideal for families and solo diners, outdoor seating and takeout options are available. Swing by for a taste of comfort food that won’t disappoint!
• Kisa — Korean · rated 4.5/5: Kisa captures the nostalgic pulse of a traditional Seoul driver’s diner, where the air is rich with the savory aroma of sizzling meats and the rhythmic clatter of a busy kitchen. Each guest receives a meticulously curated tray—a vibrant mosaic of seasonal banchan and hearty mains—that transforms a simple meal into a soulful, home-style feast rooted in Korean tradition.
• 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!
• Oh K-Dog NYC — Korean · rated 4.4/5: Oh K-Dog NYC, located at 159 Ludlow St in New York, serves up delicious Korean-style snacks like rice hot dogs and egg toast in a casual, quick-service atmosphere. Rated 4.4 stars from 768 reviews, it’s a family-friendly spot that also offers a variety of other options such as ramen and slushy drinks. Open till 3 AM on weekends, it's perfect for late-night cravings. Credit and debit cards are accepted.
• Cho-Ko — Korean · rated 4.4/5: Nestled on 1st Ave in New York, Cho-Ko is a contemporary Japanese restaurant that masterfully balances traditional and modern dishes. With a stellar 4.4 rating and over 120 reviews, it’s clear why it’s cherished by locals. Offering dine-in and takeout options, Cho-Ko caters to both families and casual diners alike. Open until late, it’s perfect for those craving hearty ramen, gyoza, and more. Don’t miss out!
• The Woo — Korean · rated 4.4/5: The Woo is a contemporary Korean barbecue restaurant located in the vibrant neighborhood of SoHo, New York. Offering authentic flavors with a modern twist, this restaurant is perfect for a memorable dining experience. Guests can enjoy a variety of wines, desserts, and vegetarian options, with the Korean fried chicken and short ribs being highly recommended. The Woo provides both indoor and outdoor seating, making it an ideal spot for lunch, brunch, dinner, or a festive gathering.
• 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.
• Monomono — Korean · rated 4.2/5: Monomono pulses with a vibrant, urban energy, where the rhythmic crackle of double-fried Korean chicken harmonizes with the warm glow of a sleek, music-centric space. Diners dive into a sensory feast of shatteringly crisp glazes and the deep, fermented heat of gochujang, all while the air hums with the savory steam of bubbling stone pots and the soulful crackle of spinning vinyl.
• 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.
• 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.
• Monomono — Korean · rated 4/5: Bathed in the warm glow of neon and the rhythmic crackle of vintage vinyl, this stylish haunt pairs an industrial-chic aesthetic with a soulful soundtrack of jazz and funk. The kitchen turns out signature double-fried Korean chicken glazed to a glass-like crunch, offering a sensory collision of bold, savory flavors and high-fidelity sound that feels both nostalgic and vibrantly modern.
• Cafe 2by2 — Korean · rated 4/5: This intimate, sun-dappled retreat invites guests into a world of quiet charm, where the aroma of freshly ground beans mingles with the warmth of a bustling open kitchen. Small tables provide the perfect stage for artfully plated bistro fare and handcrafted beverages, each dish bursting with seasonal colors and bright, clean flavors. The space hums with a gentle energy that turns a simple coffee break into a cherished ritual of connection and comfort.
• Springbone — American · rated 4/5: This minimalist sanctuary of wellness invites guests to find comfort in the restorative steam of slow-simmered bone broths, where the savory aroma of traditional chicken and beef stocks fills the air. Vibrant bowls like the turmeric-infused Liquid Gold and zesty Kimchi Broth offer a modern, nutrient-dense embrace, while hearty additions like chicken chimichurri transform simple sips into a deeply satisfying and wholesome ritual.
• Gen Korean BBQ House — Korean · rated 4/5: Nestled in the heart of the East Village, Gen Korean BBQ House offers a vibrant dining experience with its all-you-can-eat Korean BBQ. Featuring an extensive menu of meats and delicious side dishes, diners can enjoy cooking their selections tableside. With its trendy atmosphere, great value, and exceptional service, this eatery is perfect for both lunch and dinner. Reservations recommended for larger groups.
• Oiji Mi — Korean: Bathed in a warm, golden glow, this sophisticated sanctuary reimagines Korean fine dining through a lens of modern New York glamour. Meticulously plated courses marry deep, traditional flavors with contemporary finesse, inviting diners to linger over inventive dishes amidst an atmosphere of plush velvet and polished wood.
• Kisa — Korean: Bathed in natural light and the hum of lively conversation, this vibrant Middle Eastern sanctuary centers around the primal glow of a wood-fired oven and charcoal grill. Blistered flatbreads emerge hot and pillowy to be dipped into a kaleidoscope of spice-laden mezze, while the air carries the fragrant trail of charred meats and zesty sumac. It is a place of communal celebration, where the bold, sun-drenched flavors of the Levant are served with a contemporary spirit that lingers long after the final bite.
• Pepe Rosso — Italian: Pepe Rosso captures the essence of a spirited neighborhood haunt, where the air is thick with the aroma of bubbling cheese and rich, simmering sauces. The kitchen masterfully bridges the gap between classic comfort and modern flair, offering everything from silk-smooth Tortellini Gorgonzola to inventive pizzas layered with smoky BBQ chicken and earthy mushrooms. It is a place where wholesome ingredients like roasted butternut squash and whole-grain pastas are transformed into soulful, satisfying meals that linger long after the final bite.
• Ms. Yoo — Korean: This Lower East Side sanctuary transports guests into a whimsical, bi-level space where cascading greenery and ornate birdcages create a lush backdrop for reimagined Korean-American soul food. The kitchen masterfully balances tradition and playfulness, serving up crispy, gochujang-glazed textures and savory comforts that pair seamlessly with inventive, spirit-forward cocktails. It is a vibrant intersection of nostalgic flavors and modern elegance, perfect for an evening of sophisticated lounging and bold, soulful tastes.
• Gen Korean BBQ House — Korean: The air hums with high-energy music and the rhythmic sizzle of tabletop grills, where guests become the chefs in a sleek, neon-lit space designed for social feasting. Marinated cuts like honey soy beef belly and spicy gochujang-glazed meats caramelize over open flames, filling the room with an irresistible aroma of charred sweetness and savory smoke. From the tender snap of signature yangyum galbi to the buttery richness of premium steaks, every bite offers a vibrant celebration of Korean flavors that turns a meal into an interactive, communal event.
• Jua — Korean: Soft golden light dances across exposed brick and warm wood accents, drawing guests toward the heart of the restaurant where an open wood-fired hearth crackles with energy. The ancient art of charcoal cooking transforms traditional Korean flavors into a sophisticated tasting journey, infusing delicate seafood and prime meats with a subtle, smoky depth. Each meticulously plated dish balances rustic intensity with modern elegance, offering an intimate dining experience that feels both soulful and refined.