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Nogari Korean Gastropub
Master Critic Review
Nogari Korean Gastropub
7.9
Nogari brings Seoul’s Euljiro pocha alleyways to Midtown with neon-lit interiors, soju-friendly smoked meats, and late-night Korean bar snacks. It functions more like a Korean izakaya than a traditional BBQ joint, with sharing plates and drinks driving the experience.
Must-Try Dishes:
Korean-style smoked pork belly, Spicy tteokbokki with fish cake, Crispy fried chicken with pickles
Scores:
Value: 7.3
Service: 7.7
Consistency: 6.4
Food Quality: 8.4
Atmosphere: 8.6
Cultural Relevance: 7.8
What makes it special: A Korean pocha-style gastropub channeling Euljiro’s late-night energy with smoked meats and soju.
Who should go: Groups seeking Korean drinking food and cocktails after work.
When to visit: Late evenings Thursday–Saturday for full bar energy.
What to order: Smoked pork belly, spicy tteokbokki, fried chicken with soju.
Insider tip: Start with lighter anju, then add smoked meats once drinks are flowing.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking is scarce after 6pm; nearby paid garages along 8th Ave and 37th–39th St are the most reliable option.
Dress code: Trendy casual—most guests lean stylish but relaxed; jeans and nicer tops fit in.
Noise level: Loud during peak evenings with music and bar energy; conversation requires raised voices.
Weekend wait: 30–60 minutes without a reservation, especially after 9pm.
Weekday lunch: Not applicable; the gastropub is primarily an evening destination with minimal daytime service.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Moderate—several anju plates like kimchi pancakes, corn cheese, and fried snacks accommodate vegetarians.
Vegan options: Limited—most dishes rely on animal fats or seafood broths; only a small handful of sides qualify.
Gluten-free options: Partial—grilled meats are workable, but many sauces and fried items contain wheat; confirm with staff.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Better for a fun, high-energy date than a quiet one. The neon pocha vibe and shared plates make it lively but not intimate.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Often yes for small groups before 7:30pm, but expect waits on weekends; larger groups should reserve to avoid long delays.
Is it kid-friendly? Not ideal—it's a late-night, alcohol-forward environment with loud music. Teens may be fine; young children are not recommended.
Best For
Better for: Late-night Korean drinking food, groups seeking a trendy pocha vibe, and smoked meats paired with soju or cocktails.
Skip if: You want a quiet meal, traditional BBQ with tableside grilling, or extensive dietary accommodations.