Best Korean Restaurants in Upper East Side-Lenox Hill-Roosevelt Island
2 hand-picked restaurants, critic-reviewed and ranked
Last Updated: February 2026
Our Top Pick
Raon
A kimchi-centered tasting menu that treats fermentation with wine-pairing seriousness.
Notable Picks
#1
Raon
8.8
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.
Worthy Picks
7.8
Vibes:
Cheap Eats Budget Brilliance
Quick Bites Champions
Solo Dining Sanctuaries
Hidden Gems Heaven
Korean Express is a fast-casual Korean counter on Lexington Avenue serving bibimbap, stews, and combo plates to a steady stream of neighborhood office workers and locals. Portions are generous for the price, and the focus is on efficient service and takeout-friendly comfort rather than lingering over a long sit-down meal.
Must-Try Dishes:
Bulgogi Bibimbap, Spicy Tteokbokki, Spicy Tuna Kimbap
What Makes it Special: Counter-service Korean spot known for big-portioned bibimbap and stews at fair prices.