0 Followers
GAONNURI
Master Critic Reviews (2 Lists)
GAONNURI
8.4
Penthouse Korean BBQ with skyline views and a more formal service cadence than street-level peers. You’re paying a clear view premium, but the beef sets are well-trimmed, evenly grilled, and paired with thoughtful sides. Best when you want BBQ plus a clear ‘occasion’ factor.
Must-Try Dishes:
Prime ribeye BBQ set, Marinated galbi set, Seafood pancake
Scores:
Value: 6.9
Service: 8.5
Consistency: 8.6
Food Quality: 8.7
Atmosphere: 9.1
Cultural Relevance: 8.1
What makes it special: KBBQ on a high-rise perch with panoramic Manhattan views.
Who should go: Date nights and celebration groups seeking BBQ with scenery.
When to visit: Sunset dinner for the best skyline payoff.
What to order: Ribeye set, marinated galbi, seafood pancake.
Insider tip: Window tables are easiest with the tasting menu.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Valet available for $20, street parking limited and hard to find, especially after 6pm.
Dress code: Smart casual attire is recommended. Jeans are fine, but lean towards dressier styles.
Noise level: Moderate - it's possible to hear your conversation, but the atmosphere is lively.
Weekend wait: 60-75 min wait without a reservation, especially during peak hours.
Weekday lunch: No wait typically, but reservations are still advisable for best seating.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes - some side dishes like kimchi and grilled vegetables are available, though the menu is meat-focused.
Vegan options: Limited - a few side options and salads, but it's mostly a meat-centric menu.
Gluten-free options: Yes - separate prep area for gluten-free dishes, but inform the staff when ordering to avoid cross-contamination.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes, Gaonnuri’s skyline views and upscale atmosphere create a romantic and impressive backdrop, perfect for a memorable first date.
Can I get a table without a reservation? While it's possible, especially during off-peak hours, reservations are highly recommended to avoid long wait times and ensure the best seating.
Is it kid-friendly? While it's not specifically tailored to young children, older kids and teens will enjoy the interactive BBQ experience. High chairs are available upon request.
Best For
Better for: Gaonnuri excels at combining high-quality Korean BBQ with a stunning Manhattan skyline view, offering a premium dining experience for special occasions.
Skip if: If you're seeking a casual, low-key BBQ experience without the premium pricing or views, consider a street-level spot in Koreatown instead.
GAONNURI
8.3
A high-rise Koreatown institution pairing skyline views with premium Korean barbecue and a structured tasting/omakase option. The meats are well-sourced and the dining room’s energy makes it a dependable celebratory pick.
Must-Try Dishes:
Omakase BBQ set, Prime galbi, Bulgogi
Scores:
Value: 7.4
Service: 8.5
Consistency: 8.6
Food Quality: 8.6
Atmosphere: 9
Cultural Relevance: 8.1
What makes it special: Penthouse-level KBBQ with panoramic views and strong multi-platform validation.
Who should go: Celebrations, visitors, and KBBQ lovers
When to visit: Sunset slots for the best skyline impact
What to order: Omakase BBQ, galbi, bulgogi
Insider tip: Window tables require the tasting menu—book that for views.