ZipPicks Awards
Best Korean in Upper East Side
Master Critic Review
Fillmore Backroom
8.1
Opened in 2024 behind the long-running Fillmore Deli, Fillmore Backroom operates as a K-pub-style bar serving Korean fried chicken, seafood pancakes, and deli-inspired plates alongside soju and sake-forward cocktails. The room mixes rock-and-roll memorabilia with low lighting, making it feel more like a neighborhood bar than a formal restaurant. It works best for small groups who want to graze on shared plates while drinking rather than sit through a structured meal.
Must-Try Dishes:
Korean fried chicken wings, Seafood pancake, Wasabi burger with fries
Scores:
Value: 6.6
Service: 8.6
Consistency: 7.7
Food Quality: 8.4
Atmosphere: 8.8
Cultural Relevance: 7.9
What makes it special: Backroom K-pub inside a classic deli serving Korean fried chicken, soju cocktails, and late-night snacks.
Who should go: Groups wanting Korean wings, strong drinks, and casual bar energy.
When to visit: Friday and Saturday nights after 8 for fuller bar vibe.
What to order: Korean fried chicken wings, seafood pancake, wasabi burger with fries.
Insider tip: Sit near the bar for faster refills and better music volume.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking is limited and competitive after 6pm; nearby paid garages along 2nd & 3rd Ave are the most reliable option. No valet service.
Dress code: Casual-to-smart casual — jeans and sneakers are fine, but many guests lean slightly dressy on weekends.
Noise level: Lively and bar-forward — conversation is possible in smaller groups, but expect raised voices during peak hours.
Weekend wait: 20–45 minutes after 8pm for small groups; longer for parties of 5+.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait or not applicable — most traffic begins evenings; confirm current hours in advance.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Moderate — seafood pancake, fries, and a few small plates can work, but most signatures are meat-forward.
Vegan options: Limited — menu is not designed around vegan dishes and substitutions are minimal.
Gluten-free options: Partial — some grilled and fried items may be workable, but cross-contact is likely in a shared kitchen.
Best For
Better for: Casual group hangs, soju rounds, and Korean fried chicken with a fun bar atmosphere rather than a sit-down, coursed meal.
Consider Alternatives If: You want a quiet dinner, white-tablecloth Korean dining, or extensive vegetarian/vegan options.