0 Followers
Kisa
Master Critic Review
Kisa
8.3
Kisa channels the spirit of a Korean taxi-driver cafeteria with metal trays loaded up with set meals and an ever-rotating cast of banchan. The food leans hearty and comforting, with bulgogi, spicy pork, and bibimbap backed by generous sides and warm, unfussy service.
Must-Try Dishes:
Bulgogi set with seasonal banchan, Spicy pork set, Bibimbap with rotating banchan
Scores:
Value: 8.6
Service: 8.4
Consistency: 8.3
Food Quality: 8.7
Atmosphere: 6.8
Cultural Relevance: 8.8
What makes it special: Set meals piled with banchan capture the feel of a Seoul driver diner.
Who should go: Korean comfort-food fans who like hearty, tray-style meals
When to visit: Weeknights or early evenings to minimize waits for a table
What to order: Bulgogi or spicy pork set, bibimbap, daily banchan selections
Insider tip: Go with one or two friends and order different sets so you can swap mains while sharing the banchan.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking is limited in the Lower East Side, especially after 6pm; expect to circle or use nearby paid garages on Essex or Delancey.
Dress code: Casual and comfortable; anything from jeans to relaxed weekend wear fits the unfussy, canteen-style vibe.
Noise level: Moderate-to-lively; conversations are doable at smaller tables, but peak hours bring energetic chatter.
Weekend wait: 30–50 minutes during peak hours, especially for groups of 3–4.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait or a very short one.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Several solid options including vegetable bibimbap and veggie sides, though most sets are protein-focused.
Vegan options: Limited; some banchan and rice combinations work, but mains are largely not vegan-oriented.
Gluten-free options: Partially; some dishes are naturally gluten-free, but soy-based marinades and sauces may contain gluten, so ask the staff for guidance.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Better for casual, low-pressure dates than romantic ones; the vibe is lively and unfussy, ideal if you want something fun, hearty, and conversational rather than intimate.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—Kisa is walk-in friendly. Arriving early evening or on weeknights boosts your chances of sitting quickly.
Is it kid-friendly? Generally yes; the menu is straightforward and the service is warm. Best for kids comfortable with shared plates and mildly spicy flavors.
Best For
Better for: Generous set meals, homestyle banchan, and group-friendly value compared to trendier Korean small-plate spots nearby.
Skip if: You want a quiet date-night setting, upscale plating, or a menu heavy on modern Korean fusion rather than comfort classics.