What is the best Korean restaurant in Midtown East?

Raon is our top pick for Korean restaurants in Midtown East, scoring 8.8/10. A kimchi-centered tasting menu that treats fermentation with wine-pairing seriousness.

Any insider tips for Raon?

Book counter seats to watch the kitchen and hear course-by-course explanations.

What should I order at Raon?

Foie gras mandu, uni tofu course, king crab kimchi pairing.

When should I visit Raon?

Later seatings for a quieter, more intimate counter experience.

Who should go to Raon?

Fine-dining fans seeking modern Korean tasting menus.

Any insider tips for Nubiani?

Let the servers handle the grill to keep premium cuts from overcooking.

What should I order at Nubiani?

Galbi, prime ribeye set, kimchi jjigae.

When should I visit Nubiani?

Weeknights for easier reservations and more relaxed pacing.

Who should go to Nubiani?

Couples and small groups prioritizing meat quality over volume.

Any insider tips for KOBA Korean BBQ?

Portion sizes are generous—share a plate and add a side instead.

What should I order at KOBA Korean BBQ?

LA galbi plate, spicy pork bulgogi bowl, kimchi fried rice.

When should I visit KOBA Korean BBQ?

Weekday lunch and early dinner before peak commuter rush.

Who should go to KOBA Korean BBQ?

Office workers and locals craving quick, satisfying Korean flavors.

Any insider tips for Boongs Korean Fried Chicken?

Mix two chicken flavors on one order and add pickled radish to cut the richness.

What should I order at Boongs Korean Fried Chicken?

Half-and-half chicken, soy garlic wings, build-your-own ramen.

When should I visit Boongs Korean Fried Chicken?

Evenings and weekends for fresh batches and more buzz.

Who should go to Boongs Korean Fried Chicken?

Chicken lovers wanting casual, affordable Korean comfort food.

Best Korean Restaurants in Midtown East (10022)

4 hand-picked restaurants, critic-reviewed and ranked

Last Updated: January 2026

🔖 Save List

Our Top Pick

Raon

A kimchi-centered tasting menu that treats fermentation with wine-pairing seriousness.

Notable Picks

#1 Raon

8.8

$$$$ Lenox Hill

Vibes: Luxury Dining Elite Date Night Magic Trendy Table Hotspots

Raon is a serene counter-style Korean fine-dining restaurant where each course in the tasting menu is built around a different kimchi. Chef Soogil Lim’s French-inflected technique, meticulous plating, and thoughtful pairings make it one of the city’s more distinctive modern Korean experiences.

Must-Try Dishes: Foie gras mandu in duck broth, Uni and caviar tofu with gamtae, King crab with oi kimchi salad

What makes it special: A kimchi-centered tasting menu that treats fermentation with wine-pairing seriousness.

View Full Review →

#2 Nubiani

8.4

$$$ Midtown East

Vibes: Date Night Magic Trendy Table Hotspots Group Dining Gatherings

Nubiani brings a slightly more refined, K-Town–style Korean BBQ experience to Midtown East, with marbled cuts and careful grilling guidance. It’s the spot when you want high-quality meats and polished sides without a full tasting-menu commitment.

Must-Try Dishes: Marinated galbi short ribs, Prime ribeye BBQ set, Kimchi jjigae with pork

What makes it special: Well-marbled barbecue cuts and attentive staff bring a K-Town feel east of Third.

View Full Review →

#3 KOBA Korean BBQ

8.2

$$ Midtown East

Vibes: Quick Bites Champions Comfort Food Classics Solo Dining Sanctuaries Group Dining Gatherings

Fast-casual Korean BBQ bowls and platters with surprisingly polished flavors for a quick Midtown lunch or low-key dinner. KOBA leans on marinated meats, generous portions, and efficient counter service that keeps regulars flowing from nearby offices and apartments.

Must-Try Dishes: Spicy pork bulgogi bowl, LA galbi short rib plate, Kimchi fried rice with fried egg

What makes it special: Casual Korean BBQ plates with strong execution and office-friendly speed.

View Full Review →

Worthy Picks

#4 Boongs Korean Fried Chicken

7.7

$ Sutton Place

Vibes: Cheap Eats Budget Brilliance Quick Bites Champions Hidden Gems Heaven Family Friendly Favorites

A casual Korean fried chicken and ramen shop bringing late-night energy and crunchy double-fried wings to the east side. Boongs leans into playful flavors, a self-serve ramen machine, and counter service that keeps it approachable for quick meals or casual hangs.

Must-Try Dishes: Sweet and spicy Korean fried chicken, Soy garlic wings, DIY ramen bowl from the noodle machine

What makes it special: Crispy Korean fried chicken and fun ramen gadgets at wallet-friendly prices.

View Full Review →