I have a confession: I'm obsessed with Korean food. Not just kimchi and bibimbap, but the full spectrum — from street food to fine dining. So when I realized that New York City now has seven Michelin-starred Korean restaurants (up from four in 2023), I decided to do something ridiculous. I ate at all of them in one month. I spent $1,200 total, gained four pounds, and came away with strong opinions. Here's my honest ranking, from worst to best.
7. Cote (1 Star) — Overhyped Steakhouse
Let me start with the most controversial take: Cote is overrated. Yes, I know it's a "Korean steakhouse" with a chic vibe and a Michelin star. But I left disappointed. The $65 per person "Butcher's Feast" is a fixed menu with four types of beef — ribeye, sirloin, brisket, and short rib. The meat is high quality, sure, but the service feels rushed. They push you to finish quickly so they can turn the table. The banchan (side dishes) are mediocre — the kimchi was bland, and the pickled radish was too sweet. The highlight was the egg soufflé, which is fluffy and delicious. But for the price? I'd rather go to a traditional Korean BBQ spot in Koreatown for half the cost. Chef David Shim's concept is clever, but the execution feels corporate. Skip it.
6. Oiji Mi (1 Star) — Beautiful but Forgettable
Oiji Mi opened in 2024 and got its star in 2025. I went on a Tuesday night, and the room is gorgeous — dark wood, soft lighting, a stunning marble bar. The tasting menu is $135, with dishes like "Scallop Juk" (a savory porridge with scallops) and "Kimchi Fried Rice with Uni." The problem? The flavors don't stick. I remember the presentation, not the taste. The scallop juk was perfectly cooked but underseasoned. The fried rice was good, but not $135 good. Chef Brian Kim has talent, but the menu needs more punch. It's a nice date spot, but not a destination.
5. Atoboy (1 Star) — Casual and Fun
Atoboy is the more casual sibling of Atomix (which you'll see later). It's a $55 prix fixe menu with seasonal Korean dishes. I loved the energy — it's loud, crowded, and fun. The "Kimchi and Pork Jowl" was incredible: crispy pork with a tangy kimchi sauce. The "Soft Tofu with Caviar" was a clever twist on sundubu. But the portions are small, and you'll leave still hungry if you don't order extras. It's perfect for a group where everyone shares. Chef Eunjo Park keeps things interesting, but it's not mind-blowing.
4. Jungsik (2 Stars) — Sophisticated but Safe
Jungsik has held two Michelin stars since 2023, and it's the most "fine dining" experience on this list. The tasting menu is $225, with dishes like "Galbi Jjim" (braised short ribs) and "Tuna Kimbap" reimagined as a bite-sized roll. The presentation is stunning — each dish looks like a piece of art. But the flavors are safe. Nothing surprises you. The short rib is tender and rich, but you've had good short rib before. The service is impeccable, and the wine pairing is excellent. But for $225, I want to be wowed. Chef Jungsik Yim is a master, but this feels like a museum piece rather than a living restaurant.