Amazing time with delicious food and top notch service! Would definitely come again. We were seated ~25min late from reservation time (due to delay from prev seating) but they more than made up for it. (Many thanks, Chef and staff at Kochi!) Cocktails are tasty, and both of us were stuffed by the end of the night (asian portions :P) Key notes: - Flavours are a bit sweet or clean/light (담백), which is a great compliment for Korean food! That’s how we like it! As a Korean, it’s all familiar tastes that we know and love, but it’s also so different and unique. - Reserve the chef’s counter. It’s amazing to see the dishes come together - Only set course tasting menu is available, total duration ~1.5 hrs if focused on eating - Presentation is beautiful, too pretty to eat - Do add sea urchin to the bibimbap, pass on truffles for steak - Service is 👍👍👍 these are professionals - Small intimate space, tiny washrooms - Froyo was so refreshing after the meal, but the dessert was way too sweet for our palates

+6

What a dining experience! Definitely Michelin star worthy. Each dish was so immaculate and delightful to eat. My favourite was the second dish, with the shaved ice and melon balls. It was so unique and refreshing on a hot day. Everything tasted so fresh and high quality!

+5

What a phenomenal experience! I would certainly love to go back. The meal and experience were a lot of fun. The dishes of the tasting menu were delicious, flavorful, and fun, featuring seasonal ingredients. I'm not big fan of Korean food but this place is exceptional. It’s at the same time faithful to Korean cuisine while being highly creative and inventive.

+4

Everything and I mean EVERYTHING was a burst of flavors so amazing, you wanted more!! My husband and I enjoyed celebrating our 4th anniversary here and the fact they allowed, in fact welcomed our 21-month old to join us was the icing on the cake. We will definitely return for more celebrations in our lives. Thank you to the team of Kochi!

Been to Kochi twice already and would certainly love to go back. The meal and experience were a lot of fun. The dishes of the tasting menu were delicious, flavorful, and fun, featuring seasonal ingredients. It’s at the same time faithful to Korean cuisine while being highly creative and inventive.

+5

We had the best time celebrating a friend’s birthday at Kochi. The service was friendly, thoughtful and accommodating (we had a baby stroller with us). The food was great - beautifully presented and the flavors were unique and delicious. We finished the meal completely satisfied!

This was probably the best food I ever had in the US and most definitely the best Korean I ever had. The 9 course tasting menu is truly a lifechanging experience for your tastebuds and certainly for the eye. Hard to say which course I enjoyed the most, but probably the grilled Octopus and the pork chops. Maybe the watermelon gazpacho or the corn ice cream. The price is comparably cheap for what you get here, given that Kochi has been awarded a Michellin star. Wine and cocktails also just fantastic. Tiny, tiny room for improvement is the look and feel of the tables - I gave been sitting outside. Either use tablecloth or make sure the tables don’t look like old, cheap, plastic stuff that you would find anywhere else in New York. Your tableware, though, was stunning and beautiful. 100% recommendation for fine dining in New York.

+6

One of the best bang for your buck tasting courses ($145 with no add ons) I’ve had in NYC. Would recommend adding uni to the bibimbap however for $16. Great price and I left feeling very satisfied. All of the dishes were delightful and I had no complaints at all. Korean flavors were definitely there but with a nice modern twist that doesn’t stray too far from traditional. My favorites were the galbi jjim and bibimbap. Service was great as well; they gave us an extra dessert for celebrating our anniversary.

+6

WORTH IT. It’s definitely a bit steep in price, but they really let you take your time to enjoy each dish and your water/drink is always kept full. The interior is cute and the staff are all very kind and patient. Zero complaints from my experience— in fact, we had originally booked for a table outside, and they last minute accommodated us inside since it was so hot. Thank you 🫠 Give yourself at least 2 hours to enjoy this tasting menu! Definitely book in advance, and be aware that there are a lot of fish dishes (but they’re all very different in presentation and taste, so no flavor fatigue!). Great date spot or fancy dinner for a special occasion. Thank you for having us ☺️

+6

Had an amazing dinner here. I had the vegetarian tasting menu and my husband had the regular tasting menu. We were both blown away by every dish. I was so thankful for how amazing my vegetarian dishes tasted, it was definitely not an afterthought and so much care was put into it. This was the best tasting menu experience I’ve had and it was 100% worth it. We left feeling full. I can’t stop thinking about the watermelon dish. Highly recommend for meat eaters and vegetarians! Pictures are of some of the vegetarian dishes

+1

Kochi, located in the heart of Manhattan, is a hidden gem that offers a unique and memorable dining experience with its focus on Korean-inspired small plates and inventive cocktails. Tucked away in the bustling Lower East Side, this cozy restaurant boasts a trendy yet intimate ambiance, perfect for a night out with friends or a romantic dinner. The menu at Kochi showcases the creativity and skill of the chefs, with a tantalizing array of dishes that blend traditional Korean flavors with modern culinary techniques. Service at Kochi is attentive and friendly, with staff members who are knowledgeable about the menu and eager to provide recommendations. Whether you're a seasoned foodie or new to Korean cuisine, the staff are happy to guide you through the menu and help you find the perfect dish to suit your taste. Pricing at Kochi is reasonable, considering the quality of the food and the overall dining experience. It's a great value for the inventive and flavorful dishes you receive, making it a popular spot for both locals and visitors alike. ❤️Kochi in Manhattan is a must-visit for anyone looking to experience Korean-inspired cuisine with a modern twist. With its creative small plates, inventive cocktails, and cozy ambiance, it offers a dining experience that is sure to delight and impress.

+4

What an extraordinary dining experience! Each dish was exquisitely delicious. The attention to detail is palatable. I really loved the chef's story and culinary concept. The indoor dining area is quite small, so be sure to make a reservation early. There is some bar seating in front of the kitchen, which provides for a more intimate experience if you'd like. Highly recommend!

+4

We went to Kochi by recommendation from a friend and right now he is in my top 3 for best friend! If you are thinking about it, don’t. If you think you don’t enjoy kimchi or raw fish, just do yourself a favor and don’t look at the menu, that’s what we did. Finally came a week ago and will be back for more. All the food was on point with a great mix of flavors and textures. As you can see by the pictures plating is pretty for the most part. I was kind of out on the restaurant scene… been disappointed last few times but this place gave me hope again. Service is attentive and polite, fast yet on a very chill way. Loved the atmosphere. Drinks were really good too, flavorful and strong. To be honest my first impression was plates where minuscule, but by the end of the night we were full. Nice job chef! Only plate that wasn’t spectacular was the last dessert which was some kind of cake. It was good but not spectacular. We still left with a great impression on the place as 8/9 plates ain’t too shabby my friend. Would definitely recommend this to everyone.

+5

Probably one of the top 5 restaurant experiences in my lifetime. We’re spoilt for choice in Dubai for food but got to admit Kochi blew me away. We went for the tasting menu while seated at the counter overlooking all the “amazing chemistry” that took place before our eyes. Prior to coming in we were asked about allergies and food restrictions. The tasting menu consists of 9 items (2 are desserts) costing 145$ that you can pair with wine for an additional 110$. You can also add some dishes as well as go for A5 wagyu instead of the regular wagyu (which I recommend as in fact the American Wagyu dish was my fave. Wont go much more into detail but the photos I’ll share below will say it all! Pure perfection! And thank you to the amazing and friendly staff! I see why Kochi is a top 10 restaurant in NYC! Bravo!

+6

Food and service was amazing ! And the atmosphere was super local and lovely wooden tables. The waiters were so kind and accommodated us the entire night. Wagyu was delicious as were all the starters, ceviche and halibut dishes being standout and carrot sorbet for dessert was 👌🏻 thanks for having us !!!

We had such a delightful, delicious, thoughtful and well attended meal at Kochi. We sat outside and staff were so lovely and accommodating and nice. The tasting menu was a stunner, every plate beautiful and really tasty. The flavors were clean and combined perfectly. They were easily able to accommodate my pescatarian needs for one guest. They also have Athletic Brewing nonalcoholic IPA beer which was a great thing to see. For the price it felt like a nice splurge for my visiting mom but it is also the best tasting menu steal in NYC.

Incredible food, every dish was spectacular. The flavor combinations seem like they would not work well together, but surprisingly they were so good. The desserts were the best part! The staff were kind and accommodating. We were here on a rainy night and they kindly moved us to another table so we wouldn't get soaked. One hundred percent I'd come back here again

+6

Went here for my birthday. My friend and I had an amazing time. The food was creative and tasty. It was a tad chilly outside that evening, and the servers were kind enough to move us inside midway through our pre-fixed dinner service. It was such a kind gesture, and it definitely turned me into a loyal patron.

+5

Our culinary journey at Kochi was nothing short of extraordinary. The artistry in both taste and presentation was exquisite, each dish a visual and gustatory delight that could easily be coveted. As attendees of a local conference, we found Kochi to be the apex of our visit - a testament to its excellence. Despite its compact size, the restaurant exuded warmth and intimacy. The service was exceptional, with an attentiveness that never missed a beat. From changing utensils and plates with every course to being promptly available whenever we required something, the staff's commitment to impeccable service was evident. Yes, the experience at Kochi comes at a premium, but the extraordinary dining journey, infused with artful flavors and refined service, made it a worthy investment. It was more than a meal; it was an event to remember.

+6

such great food and atmosphere. the waitstaff are friendly and attentive. all the meats were cooked perfectly, and all the small dishes had such deep and well balanced flavors. however the main courses (pork and duck/wagyu) were a little less exceptional, although still good. they were just a bit more “basic” than the other dishes. the desserts were back to amazing. the best dishes were the halibut with fish broth and the sweet potato soup.

We had the 10 course tasting menu and it was delicious. I loved the different flavors and textures. The truffled scallops and bibimbap were amongst my favorites. The selection of cocktails and drinks was also A+. Staff were all very kind. I’ll definitely be coming back.

+6

Loved everything about our evening. Menu well explained by the waiters and Isaac was funny and we attentive. The food was delicious. As it was our first time, we got the chefs signature tasting menu. By the end of the night I was a little bit full, so imagine next time ordering the shorter tasting menu. For my husband though it was enough. The last dish came with a candle and they were kind to wish us a happy anniversary, what I wasn't expecting. They could accommodate my request of "no red meat".

+6

I came solo because I just had the urge to have a pre-fixed menu. After some research I decided I wanted to get Korean. The whole evening from start to finish was the definition of extravagant. The place setting was minimal but neat, and every dish was perfectly crafted. The service was excellent, everything I expected. After each course my tableware was replaced, the staff were beyond extremely attentive. Constantly refilling water, and tea. They also did they without being a bother. They maintained a very good balance of attentiveness without hanging around. When I asked for a recommendation or a question they were quick and knowledgeable to answer. The Artemisia tea was actually a recommendation and it was a fantastic one at that. I could go on and on about the food here, but honestly it is something you have to experience for yourself. Whether you have a large party, an evening for two or a solo night. If you are in the mood for a fulfilling and satisfying meal experience come here to Kochi. I am sure you will be blown away.

+6

Food is absolutely amazing! Very well presented and all the sauces/sides/garnishments are very well thought of. Definitely worth the Michelin star!! The outside seating is a bit rustic for the level though. We were there on a rainy day and it was just a tarp cover doesn’t really give the fine dining feeling to be honest. I would probably try inside next time. The drink menu is ok but quite small portion for the price but I guess matched the overall price level for the restaurant.

+5

Before anything the service here was absolutely fantastic. Our waitress and the host were incredible. I like how they explained every dish of the tasting menu when they brought it to the table. Due to poor planning we had to leave a bit earlier and they had no problem bringing us food a little quicker. Now to the food. The food was great. The flavors in each dish sent your palate on a roller coaster of flavors. I would highly recommend this restaurant. I will be back when the tasting menu changes.

+4

Such a delightful brunch! We were there this past Sunday with a party of four. Everything we had was absolutely delicious. The tostadas & steak + omurice were standouts!!

+1

Just had one of the best dining experiences at Kochi in NYC 🤍 We went for the eight-course tasting menu — an homage to Korean royal cuisine with a street food twist — and every single dish felt like a little gem. ✨ From the clean, delicate flavors of the hwe course to the bold textures in the shrimp bibimbap… I was honestly blown away. We added the abalone and Iberico pork from the chef’s special menu to round it all out — highly recommend doing the same if you go! Each course is so thoughtfully crafted, seasonal, and full of flavor. Michelin-rated for a reason 👏🏼 Tasting Menu $145 pp

+6

Had a wonderful meal at this restaurant! The dishes were fresh, tasty, and clearly made with care. The staff was warm and professional, always checking in to make sure we had everything we needed. Great atmosphere and even better food – will definitely be coming back!

+1

Finally getting around to leaving a review. Better late than never. My wife and I dined here the summer of 2023. We splurged on the chef's table experience and loved it. The food was impeccable, the hospitality was warm and welcoming, and the atmosphere was cozy yet comfortable. Good hospitality and great food. We said "yes" to all the upgrades. Worth it. Flat iron steak to A5 wagyu, black truffle supplement, sea urchin supplement. I recommend this spot to anyone looking to venture North of the craziness in Midtown.

+3

Kochi delivers a refined yet soulful Korean tasting menu that’s both inventive and deeply comforting. The skewer-based courses are beautifully paced, with standouts like the abalone and perilla-wrapped bites. Service is warm, the vibe is intimate without being stuffy, and each dish feels intentional and memorable. Definitely a place to visit with friends or special occasions.

Food 9/10 I am glad to say that this tasting menu really filled me up with a variety of dishes. It felt quite well-rounded, drawing elements from traditional Korean cuisine, while adding a unique twist. The halibut was lovely, and so was the mushroom sauce in the steak. The amberjack was absolutely gorgeous, but did not have as much flavor as I had hoped for. The soup was very creamy but delicate, which I quite enjoyed. The sesame ice cream cake roll was also a star for me. Overall, a great dining experience and it was super fun sitting at the chef counter watching them make the dishes. Atmosphere 9/10 Quite a snug little spot in Hell’s Kitchen, but I liked the decor. Service 9/10 Great service, super attentive and provided everything we needed at a timely manner.

+5

What can I say? This is one of the best tasting menus I’ve experienced! Every dish was incredibly delicious—elevated without being overly fancy or trying too hard, just genuinely good food. Unlike some tasting menus, I actually left feeling nicely full. They were also fantastic about accommodating dietary restrictions, which made the experience even better. For the quality and creativity of the dishes, the value is outstanding. The atmosphere was relaxed and welcoming, not stuffy, and the service was excellent. I enjoyed every single course!

+6

Loved this place. Great mix of flavours across a broad tasting menu. Yes it is extremely expensive especially once you start adding supplements. Every dish was wonderfully presented and tasted brilliant. The service was immaculate. Briana was courteous, extremely responsive and empathetic given my partner kept me waiting an hour! As an Australian, I hate tipping culture but I was very happy to leave a tip at Kochi. Is it worth the price? Hard to say, whilst it was one of my favorite meals in New York, I'm not in the habit of spending ~$250 per head in one go. But if you're looking for a fine dining spot, this should be at the top of your list.

+2

My husband and I celebrated my birthday and our wedding anniversary dining at Kochi. It's small but cozy atmosphere was very inviting. We chose to sit at the counter to watch the amazing small bites as they were prepared. Each dish teased our taste buds with delightful flavors. The halibut was my favorite. We tried a Korean sool which is a traditional rice wine for the first time. The sool compliments the meal well. Dessert was divine. The staff was attentive and knowledgeable, describing each dish as it was presented to us. We enjoyed the experience at Kochi. If you're looking for an intimate setting and an enjoyable experience, Kochi is your place.

8 course chef choice. everything was delicious and service was excellent. Price is reasonable. Definitely a repeat. Discovered a new shoju called "Seoul Night" light and refreshing.

+6

This was our third time back at Kochi, and it was spectacular as always. Great to see the creative ways that Kochi has fine-tuned the flavors of each dish, and changed the ingredients to better accentuate the menu. Service was spot-on as usual, and everyone was super friendly and attentive. The cocktails we ordered were great, but would love to see more options and new twists on classics. Highly recommend; looking forward to returning soon!

+3

Korean traditional course meal distilled into a fusion kochi (skewer) form. Among Michelin-starred Korean fine dining spots, Kochi offers one of the most unique concepts. Rather than focusing on fusion or highlighting specific dishes, Kochi presents a complete Korean multi-course experience (each dish representing a classic element of traditional dining). For those unfamiliar with Korean course meals, it might feel a bit mundane, but for me, it carried a fun and nostalgic charm. A typical Korean course meal begins with a light soup and raw seafood, and Kochi’s first two starters beautifully reflected this tradition. Along with the Chef’s special Abalone, these starters were elevated with playful sweet acidity. The course then transitioned seamlessly into savory acidity with the Octopus Twigim and Halibut. The halibut was my favorite dish from the first half of the meal—a creative take on dried pollock bean sprout soup (콩나물북어국). The Jiri consommé deepened the flavors with its umami and spice, while the lightly fried tofu and delicate halibut added textural dimensions to the dish. Just like in a Korean meal, the entrées weren’t limited to just one. Instead, they were divided into 3 parts: 2 meat dishes and, of course, bibimbap—because no Korean meal feels complete without it. My favorite was the American wagyu—decently fatty, paired with a rich truffle sauce, and the chewy yet slightly creamy barley risotto made it very satisfying. On the other hand, the flank steak felt like a simple bulgogi with a different pork cut—not particularly innovative and probably the plainest dish of the evening. Then the Mandarin Sorbet. Best palate cleanser I’ve ever had. The way they layered textures and acidity in this seemingly simple dish was divine. The bursting texture of finger lime, silky smooth calico foam, and the bright citrus supreme all came together beautifully. The white sesame dessert was a tad disappointing as they subtle sesame and ginger flavors were completely overpowered by caramel. Thankfully, the chef provided a complimentary passionfruit posset, and this was absolutely fire.

+6

The chef must be arrested. How can we enjoy Korean food in another restaurant after eating at Kochi?!!😆 Joke aside, very special place. The staff is very friendly and helpful, they feed you with food and information. Please be careful, you only can bug the taste menu - as of 2024, it’s around 150 USD / Person. I found it a little expensive, especially if you sit outside and “enjoy” regular central Manhattan view. Anyway, good place for celebrations.

+6

This was one of the best meals I’ve had in 2024. We were lucky to snag a day-of reservation. When we arrived at our reservation time, they were about 15-20 minutes behind schedule and hadn’t had a chance to flip our table yet. However, once we were seated, the service and experience were excellent. The staff was apologetic for the delay and gave us each a drink on the house and added caviar and shaved truffle to a couple of our dishes as well. We did the 10 course tasting menu and every single dish was delicious. A couple of my favorites were the arancini with corn cream, wagyu steak with shishito pepper and hush puppy, and the earl grey ice cream sandwich. Service was kind and attentive and they paced the dishes very well. I would love to come back next time I’m in Manhattan!

+1

This place absolutely blew me away! Went to the city for a quick weekend trip, dined here on a Friday and they we busy but from the time I walked in to the time I left I was treated with kindness and respect. The tasting menu was exceptional. Perfect portions to leave you satisfied. Great atmosphere and temperature was perfect for the winter. Kochi definitely deserves a second Michelin star!

+5

Amazing, 5* for everything. Best tasting menu I’ve ever had - 9 perfectly sized dishes, equally delicious, with the 2nd dessert quite possibly being the most delicious thing I’ve ever eaten 😁. The staff is super nice and very attentive. We didn’t go for the wine pairing, but had wine by the glass, a sparkling and a red one. The „by the glass“ selection is small but of very high quality. Kochi even addresses my biggest pet peeve why I don‘t like wine pairings: you always get way too many white wines, so they offer 4 pairings, one each with sparkling, rosé, white and red wines. Highly recommend.

+4

I was sooooo impressed by this tasting menu! Came here to celebrate an anniversary and it was absolutely worth it! Came here back in February and we were seated outside with the heater and tent. We absolutely enjoyed every bite of everything. I can’t even tell you which is my favorite. The service was wonderful and attentive. Food comes out quickly and overall a really great experience!

+6

Visited in Feb 2025 Had made a reservation for dinner at Kochi before catching a Broadway show. The tasting menu is a 9 course experience with one optional additional course (the Chef’s Special) for an additional amount. I did add the additional Chef’s special which was an abalone course and it was fantastic. There was also the option to upgrade a couple of courses in the menu with additional premium ingredients for those wishing to. The tasting menu is very reasonably priced (versus other similar Michelin star restaurants in NY) and the dinner was a good amalgamation of creative preparations, traditional flavours and an overall unpretentious experience. The restaurant definitely deserves its one Michelin star. For drinks, I ordered a couple of cocktails (the Fig Negroni and the Spiced Korean Pear Margherita) and both were quite good. Would definitely recommend Negroni lovers to try the Fig Negroni. There is a also a detailed wine list for folks who are interested. Service was impeccable. Overall, the dinner was a very nice experience and I’d definitely recommend folks to visit Kochi if they’re interested in Korean fine dining.

+6

The food tastes great. Every dish has a very balanced flavor. I also did the wagyu upgrade for the main and it tasted amazing. The wagyu melts in your mouth.

Exceptional meal from start to finish. We did the tasting menu with wine pairing, and every dish felt thoughtfully executed and perfectly timed. The scallop and halibut were fresh and cooked just right. The octopus skewer had a nice kick but was perfectly balanced by the sauce. Then came the duck, probably the best I’ve ever had. Crispy skin, flavorful fat, and meat so rich it almost outshined the A5 wagyu, which was also outstanding. The chefs clearly know their way around the grill. Dessert was good, pretty, and balanced, though not the highlight for me. The wine pairing was excellent: a mix of rice wines and a 2000 Luís Pato that was dry, silky, and paired beautifully with the steak. Service was seamless and knowledgeable; the small space runs with precision and calm energy. It’s easy to see why they’ve held their Michelin star since 2021; they absolutely deserve it.

Not your typical white cloth Michelin star restaurant. We absolutely loved our evening at Kochi, would highly recommend sitting at the counter to watch the chefs working away, brought a whole new appreciation to the meal! Its was very reasonably priced 8 course tasking menu with such a variety or flavours, textures and ingredients, we loved every bite. Service matched the quality of the food, so so awesome!

+6

I had a great time last night, thanks to the staff for letting me sit at the bar without a Rez. I had a conference in Hells Kitchen and went to the chefs sister restaurants last year. I am a big fan of Korean food and throughly enjoyed the experience at Kochi. -Phil

Avinaash K

Incredible tasting menu, really enjoyed it. Not quite at the top when it comes to Korean fine dining in the city, but for the price it’s hard to beat. The abalone, octopus, and steak were all incredible. Really enjoyed all the deserts as well.

+6

Kochi was an excellent dining experience all the way through. The staff is so friendly and attentive and the atmosphere elevated by a chill interior and playlist. The starting 2 dishes start the meal off perfectly, and amazing meals continue all the way through. We ordered and really liked the black truffle dumpling to break up the tasting menu. This spot was awesome, and hearing that small menu changes are made on a frequent basis are an exciting pull to come back in the future.

+6

We loved Kochi. It was our first taste of fine dining Korean and it was exceptional. Everything was cooked and presented beautifully, the wine we were recommended was a great match to the tasting menu and the staff were all wonderful and answered our questions about the food they were serving up.

+6

5 stars: price for quality ratio is quite solid. The food was stunning and delicious. The service was very friendly, just a great dining experience. We did the tasting menu plus the abalone course. They were able to accommodate a pescatarian menu which I appreciated! I also got the apricot NA drink which was so good and refreshing. Standouts for us were: - white asparagus soup with the croquette: just a stunning dish to kick off the meal. So fresh and deep and a great balance of textures. - crispy cakes: messy but delicious. - the smoky fava beans along with the main course - abalone: this was an add on but it's not easy to find in Ny and was pretty good overall! The foam was a little hard to scoop but good flavors. Would definitely recommend! We sat outside but it's on a relatively loud corner so I'd recommend sitting inside. Enjoy!

+5

My friend and I had a truly exceptional dining experience at Kochi last week. Each dish featured a distinct and thoughtfully crafted flavor profile, executed with precision and care. Highlights of the tasting menu included the halibut with caviar and the sea urchin bibimbap. The halibut was delicately cooked and remarkably tender, while the uni added a luxurious texture and depth to the bibimbap. Our experience was further elevated by the sommelier, Nicholas, whose expertly curated wine pairings complemented each course beautifully and showcased the finesse of the cuisine. Kochi is undoubtedly one of New York City’s must-try restaurants—an experience not to be missed.

+5

Saw the owner on Culinary Class Wars on Netflix and rooting for him!! My husband took me here for my birthday. We drove 3 hours for our first Michelin star restaurant and it was so worth it. I honestly thought I wouldn't like everything because I didn't have the high class palate and I was so nervous about the social environment, but I was so wrong. It was an amazing experience. We ate ALL 9 dishes on the tasting menu. I highly recommend the A5 wagyu upgrade! All the dishes were very distinct and had tons of different flavors. It was so delicious and the service was incredible. They were so friendly and I had a great night!

+6

Kevin Joyce

Kochi first opened in 2019 and was subsequently awarded a Michelin star. Ordering everything on the menu is usually relegated to daydreams, but at Kochi, it’s possible, as the nine-course tasting inspired by Korean royal court Eat Royally so good!

Min C

My review is based on my visit about one year ago. My friend and I had a course menu and every single menu was very satisfying, fun experience. Drinks, not featured in the photos, were definitely worth mentioning too. I remember the place being a little noisy but overall, we had a really great time and enjoyed our meal.

+5

I was taken here for my birthday, and we had a truly exquisite evening, a sensational, New York dining experience. Every dish on the tasting menu was well thought out, expertly prepared and beautifully presented. The crew definitely takes the endeavor seriously, and it is reflected in the quality of the meal. I had the beverage pairing, which was also wonderful. All of the Wines or sake were selected with care and accompanied each dish beautifully. The service was extremely professional and friendly, it was a pleasure to sit at the counter and watch the team preparing each course. Definitely would like to go back here for another special occasion, or perhaps just a fun evening to treat ourselves.

+6

Connor Pinkney

What an experience! This was probably one of the best restaraunts I have ever been to and it was well worth the Michelin stars that it was given. From the service of the staff, to the explanation and taste of the food, it was incredible! Small venue so nice and intimate, well worth it to make a reservation to ensure you get a seat. Expensive, but worth every penny.

+6

Logan Gooding

Not sure why it took me a year to write this review, but what an incredible experience. I was on a solo trip to New York for a couple of days and this was my first time at a Michelin starred restaurant and it totally lived up to it. The service was so engaging, the margarita was so good, each course was perfect. All hits, no misses, the best "splurge" meal I've ever had in my life up to that point, and remains it, a year later after a few more Michelin starred/recommended spots. It was just so impressive.

+6

Gloria He

Kochi offers exceptional food and outstanding service. The dishes are thoughtfully curated, blending traditional Korean flavors with contemporary techniques, and the ingredients are fresh and flavorful. In addition, the team was attentive to feedback—for example, adjusting seasoning after I mentioned a dish soup was slightly salty—and even surprised me with an additional dessert to celebrate my work milestone. A truly memorable dining experience! Highly recommend!

+4

Christophe Campestre

Awesome food, very subtle, tasty, surprising… I chose the wine pairing, which was very interesting, wines worldwide and including some Korean beverages … Service is friendly, careful, smiling. A wonderful moment, thanks to everyone at Kochi !

+3

This place is outstanding, by far my favorite restaurant in the city. Menu is always carefully chosen and tailed to each season, wine pairing is excellent, and service is very personal yet discreet. This is a perfect place for an intimate or special occasion dinner. Highly highly recommend!

+2

Wes Pipitone

A world of flavor in a small corner of Hell's Kitchen. Beautiful presentation and modern execution. Most dishes are kept lighter than we're usually exposed to in most American Korean dishes in order to keep you going through the full milti course meal. The fish and meats were both perfectly cooked and had many flavors of the flame they were grilled with. A scallop dish upon pickled root vegetables was a highlight of the tiny plates. The meal ended beautifully with a 3 piece ballet of sorbet, banana, and creams. The staff was as exceptionally accommodating as the flavors. The star was deserved.

+6

Monica Shum

Loved our experience here. The servers were attentive and friendly. The dishes were delicate and layered with flavor and textures to die for. Our favorites were the mushroom medley appetizer and the octopus skewers. Had a fun, upbeat vibe and didn’t feel overly formal like some fine dining places. It embraced the street food inspiration while still feeling very refined. We didn’t get alcohol but did enjoy the mocktails and tea selection.

+3

Matt Bonaccorso

Excellent evening out - sat at the chefs’ counter and enjoyed the tasting menu. The menu featured a variety of Korean - French fusion with ingredients also sourced from Japan. Everything was seasonal and scrumptious. High end cuisine through and through. Decor could be slightly dressed up but will return. Food quality worth a return trip. Cocktail program was exceptional. Their mushroom martini was truly spectacular. Bravo.

+4

Ceci

If you're looking for a fine dining place to bring your picky asian father to, then Kochi is the place to be! It's not too long of a meal (it's 2 hours maximum), stays true to its Korean roots while having enough of a unique twist, and is casual enough that you don't have to force your dad out of his sneakers and jeans. It's actually my second time back at Kochi, and they still managed to exceed my expectations! One of the reasons why I went back was because their wine/alcohol pairing menu was reasonable: it's a mix of wine, soju, makgeolli, and sake, which complements their set menu nicely. The variety is hard to come by, and is a welcome change to a scene that usually only serves wine. Another reason why I came back was because the food was delicious. Kochi somehow manages to elevate Korean cuisine without making it obnoxiously elaborate, or distorting it to the point where it strays from its Korean. Each dish is presented beautifully, but without the pomp and stuffiness one usually feels at a fine dining spot. They manage to curate a truly phenomenal menu while maintaining a more homey, casual ambiance. For this menu, my favorite was the mushroom soup at the beginning, which was a nice blend of creaminess, umami, and sweetness! The hwe, with the tender scallop and kimchi was such a refreshing combo too. My dad's favorite was the tangerine sorbet, which he even asked for seconds (and got, free of charge, thank you!). My mom really enjoyed the octopus twigim and the halibut. Throughout the meal, the waiters/waitresses were also super knowledgable and accommodating. They all know each table's progression in the menu, so they all help out in serving and presenting each dish. They're like a seamless team, it's really cool to see! All in all, Kochi is a great restaurant to take your asian parents too! Definitely check them out, you won't regret it!!

+6

Sarah Jones

This place is outrageous - the tasting course is just incredible - a burst of flavours and textures that just work so well together. Cocktails are also great. Atmosphere is relatively intimate but lovely vibe!

Elyssa Silverman

Celebrated my husband’s birthday here tonight! Every aspect of our dinner felt special and memorable. Each course was a unique experience. The service was outstanding – the entire staff was friendly and efficient. I am gluten-free and our waitress, Sarah, took extra care to explain any changes made to my dishes to accommodate that. I appreciated her attention to detail so I knew exactly what I was eating. We had an incredible meal and can’t wait to come back!

Shirin Jafari

The tasting menu here is very unique. The mushroom soup was actually the highlight of the whole menu for me! Definitely do the Abalone dish add on. The sea urchin add on was also very interesting to taste. To wrap up, both desserts were very refreshing. Service was very good and the whole restaurant has very cosy vibes, without the “corporate” style that some Michelin stars have.

+6

EO

My husband and I went to Kochi for our anniversary and had the course tasting menu with wine pairings. Every dish was beautifully presented and thoughtfully crafted. It was a joy watching each plate come together. The ambience was quiet and intimate, and the service was excellent. Overall, it was a memorable, elevated dining experience that felt perfect for a special occasion.

+1

A very impressive meal! Kochi manages to modernize the Korean cuisine successfully, with its flavors and identities intact. My favorites were the pork tenderloin and the mackerel courses, both beautifully tender and juicy. My least favorite, somewhat surprisingly, was the short rib. I thought it was the odd one out with it being more like a steak with chimichurri, and I was disappointed when it didn't present any Korean flavors. But overall, the meal was tasty and creative. The service was good. Each dish was explained well while being served. What was a bit odd was that different courses were served by different servers, so that created a somewhat disconnected experience. The ambiance was vibrant. We sat at the counter, and while it was cool to watch the chefs cook, it was 8 or so chefs crammed into a small kitchen. It was a bit chaotic. If you're looking for a relaxing meal, I'd suggest you ask to be seated at a table.

+6

Food really wasn't an ordinary experience. The courses were interesting with fine ingredients, good taste. The staff explained the courses and were flexible accomodating wife's vegeterian preference for some of the courses. The A5 Wagyu upgrade was worth it, my wife and I felt the quality of the meat. We were also very pleased with the extra desert offered by the restaurant for celebrating our wedding. The deserts were really exceptional. The service was very pleasant. If I have to nitpick, I think the atmosphere can be improved. I expected more out of a Michelin star restaurant. The place is fairly small, the bathrooms could have been cleaner and taken care of. The place only had to offer metal chopsticks, I believe for trying to make it a fancy experience, but as a person that is used to wooden chopsticks my whole life it came out really inconvenient to hold much heavier chopsticks.

The tasting here was fairly solid especially given the price compared to other tastings. Not cheap by any means but the base tasting is decent value. Dishes in general were fairly solid but few were wow. I have to say there supplements were not good value at all. $16 for uni added to the bibimbap for what must’ve been a tiny sliver. You can easily get a top notch uni nigiri with 4x as much for less. Somehow cocktails here are more expensive than just about anywhere else. Staff i general were friendly but lacked a good understanding of the menu. Simple questions beyond the description required going back to the kitchen. Standouts we’re the shrimp fritter the chocolate dessert pop and the pork tenderloin.

+6

I highly recommend the 10-course meal because you can try and experience a variety of dishes. We paired it with white wine and it was delish! :) The main dishes and the 2 desserts they serve here are very delicious!! Also remember to make your reservations around 3-4 weeks in advance to reserve a spot!! Next time I go, I want to try to get a spot indoors. I would definitely come back!

+2

My friend Sarah chose to visit New York this week with her family. We hadn't seen each other since MasterChef, so it felt wonderful to reconnect. We had a gathering of nine, thanks to our amazing friend Ross, who made the reservation, along with Trang. The food was incredible! My favorites were the octopus and halibut with that flavorful consommé. The desserts were fantastic as well. Overall, the experience was delightful, and the strawberry field drink was quite tasty too!

+3

We didn't have a reservation but they were able to accommodate us with bar seats. I appreciated them accommodating my allergies and swapping out the ingredients. This spot was on my list to try out so glad I did but I don't think it was so good I'd go back. If you're in the area, check it out. Sometimes you can leave prix fixe a little hungry but didn't feel that way with this spot. What makes me give it a 4 (and maybe a smidge under 4) is that the food wasnt wow. The best dish was the Wagyu and morels. The korean flavours didn't seem integrated and sometimes a little superficial (adding a bit of fermented paste or gochujang isn't quite enough). The perilla and tomato jelly with Hamachi could've had potential but fell a bit short. Some of the dishes like the sorbet and and banana milk did a good job of incorporating the essence of Korean cuisine without being too much on the nose. Long story short, give it a try if you're in the area and there's a seat open but I wouldn't recommend going out of your way.

+4

While the food was good, it definitely wasn't standout enough to make me want to go back or hold it up to other Michelin restaurants. Each dish was presented perfectly, but the flavours were muted and nothing really stood out other than the iberico meat dish. For a korean inspired place, you could barely tell except for some dishes which then were probably the best ones of the night.

+6

We had a very good experience at Kochi. The food was top knotch. However, for a Michelin Star restaurant and for the amount of money paid, I feel it could have been better. There were 2 dishes that seemed too salty (a broth), and then there was one that seemed to use too much miso or maybe bonito? Then, there is no dishes to cleanse or prepare your pallet for the next course. Also, during one presentation of a dish, a soup base was poured over fish, and the server spilled a few drops on the table but never attempted to clean it. If we were not paying so much, it would not be a big deal at all, but I've been to steakhouses that were more attentive. The staff did provide us with 3 different desserts for our anniversary. That was nice.

+6

Amazing service. Food was absolutely outstanding. Every course was surprising and illuminating, some of the best food we've ever had. We paid $476 for two, without the wine pairing. A few notes that the music was quite loud and the wagyu did not come out hot. They also asked us to leave midway through the last dessert course even though we waited more than ten minutes for some of the courses to come out and were not loitering whatsoever. Was a bit surprising.

+1

Food is very creative. Plating is excellent and unique. The servers and employees are very well trained. Atmosphere is very much fitting. Bathroom really looks nice. I like the open kitchen concept. B.U.T. Food is strongly seasoned (too salty) and smaller portion of each dishes reminds how salty each dishes are. I am a Korean by background so I have had "real things" that they are trying to recreate in each dishes. It is unique. I give you that. But I have had it better. I do not regret going here but I personally do not think I would be a frequent patron. But this might be because I am a Korean and grew up eating many awesome Korean dishes. If I am a stranger to Korean cuisine, this would not be a bad introduction. I hope it makes sense

+6

Amber Hayes

Really enjoyed it! I had the chef menu and the wine tasting. A lot of thought and care went into the menus. The food was tasty. Favorites were the first course mushroom soup, octopus skewers and the desserts.

+1

chris hong

"Kochi" literally skewer. A fun take on Korean street food...elevated/adapted to a western palate. Most wonderful service. Very pretty plating. Personally found the food sweet for some reason. I wish they would cut down on the sugar in their apps and entrées. The two dessert plates were perfectly sweet, however. Worth the price? I guess so.

+5

Jordan Li

Instagram: @jojo_gourmand Last year, I checked out Chef Sungchul Sim’s creative take on hand rolls at Mari. Now, a year later, I’m back in his world at the restaurant that originally launched him into NYC’s Korean fine-dining scene. I’d seen photos of Kochi’s cozy dining room, but I didn’t expect it to be this cramped. Kochi (꼬치) means skewer, which is fitting for a menu where most courses arrive threaded. MENU HIGHLIGHTS MUSHROOM SOUP | Shiitake Meringue | Perilla Oil Reminds me of Korea’s chilled pumpkin soup. The sweetness balances the deep mushroom notes, and as the meringue melts, it coats the palate with earthy shiitake richness. HOKKAIDO SCALLOP | Chestnut | White Kimchi The scallop’s natural sweetness worked well with the crisp acidity of white kimchi. A refreshing reset between heavier bites. ABALONE | Shrimp Jeon | Yuja Soy An optional add-on, but absolutely worth it. Tender abalone layered over shrimp jeon, dipped in spicy yuja soy = one of the night’s standout bites. BANANA MILK | Banana Parfait | Banana Compote The nostalgic Korean drink, reimagined as a popsicle. The compote hits with piercing banana intensity, but together with all the components, it became the best version of banana milk ever. 🗺️ Korean ⭐️ Michelin One-Starred 🏷️ US$150+

+6

Food was very good, and portions were as expected from a tasting menu, however we didn’t feel like the price justified the quality or experience. Service felt a bit rushed, but servers were generally pleasant and attentive. We spent about $400 on food/drinks/tip but would have been comfortable at half that.

+3

I'll keep this review fairly brief - I was disappointed by our dining experience at Kochi. Service was very curt and any questions we asked, such as which soju to try, were met with quick disregard. In terms of food, while there were definitely one or two highlights across the different courses (the abalone and black sesame ice cream sandwich were excellent), the remaining food was average at best and overall bland. Drinks were fine. In summary, for the price and effort to grab a table, our dining experience was extremely disappointing and I would not recommend a visit if others were to have the same experience.

+6

Susie Su

The best dish of the tasting menu was the scallops, the other dishes were either a bit too salty or was tough to eat. The price point is fair though but was overall not impressed.

+4

Ren D

Overall, It would have been a 4-star experience if not for the failed duck course. Felt a bit overrated. Favorite courses: abalone, hwe (Hokkaido scallop), and banana milk dessert. The course combinations were creative, and I enjoyed almost all of the dishes—up until the duck. The duck tasted great, but the skin was a little too charred. The staff offered to replace it, which I later regretted, as the second time was poorly executed: very chewy and definitely not up to the standard. Unfortunately, this inconsistency brought down my overall rating of the restaurant. They should really look into why the second preparation was significantly worse than the first. Environment: I don’t think I can give a completely fair rating for the environment because I was seated outdoors with a heater. On two occasions, customers waiting for tables were standing behind me (about a table’s distance). For someone who values a quiet dining experience, this was a major downside. Customers should be seated rather than standing behind diners while waiting—especially when some were in groups. This made the experience feel disorganized.

+6

As a Korean, this maybe very far from the Korean food that I am used to but it was my first fine dining experience so bear with me. All the dishes were Korean inspired, I wouldn’t say they were necessarily Korean food. All the dishes and their ingredients scream Korean but it didn’t feel or taste like it. The tuna bibimbap I got was good and my favourite of the night but it’s not the one that your family would eat of a communal bowl with literally every single fixing. The banana milk dessert also didn’t taste like banana milk at all, I was chasing that nostalgic feeling the entire night but was left feeling a longing for my mom’s cooking instead. Great food and experience but just not Korean. I expected more from a fine dining experience but maybe it’s a me problem.

+2

We were seated outside which is fine if there were no seats available inside and if the outside experience can still attempt to accommodate for a Michelin star dining experience. However, even with the heaters and slight smell of propane, it was an extremely cheap and bad experience. There was absolutely nothing special about the food. The mushroom soup tasted like a super milky canned mushroom soup, the scallop was just drenched in vinegar, fish was nothing special besides the presentation of pouring the stock into the bowl (which was overly salty and intense with ginger) , and all other dishes were also extremely salty or just way too intense with soy sauce, gochujang, ginger, or mayo. Bibimbap is a tiny bowl of rice and some creamy mayo type sauce with tons microgreens to make it look pretty. Uni should be included considering there are no other special ingredient, but it’s an additional $60 for a tiny portion. My group walked out thinking it was one of the worst dining experiences, fine dining or not, and it was definitely not worth the price. One of us got a very bad stomach ache the night of, though we can’t exactly say it was due to the food here. The service, on the other hand, was the only 5 star experience. Overall, there wasn’t a single dish that stood out to be special or tasty. And for the price, it’s certainly an overcharge.

This is our first Michelin experience and it totally disappointed us. We each paid $217 for the 8–course meal and we all got diarrhea after dinner. Food is mediocre at best (at least 2 out of 6 savory dishes were salty) and tables were so close to each other that I could clearly hear the conversation of the people who sat at the table next to us. I don’t think the experience and the food here worth the money we paid for. On top of that, we all suffered from the diarrhea. The only good thing is the service we received from the servers, but it doesn’t compensate for the bad quality of the food we had here. Please don’t come to this restaurant. There are many better restaurants in NYC. This restaurant is overhyped by the Michelin title and you will more likely be disappointed like us if you dine here.

+3

I dined at Kochi today with my husband and sister, and unfortunately, the experience fell far short of expectations—especially for a Michelin-starred restaurant. The atmosphere was underwhelming and felt very average, not what you’d anticipate for a $200-per-person meal. The food itself tasted decent, though it was noticeably salty. But the bigger issue: both my sister and I became extremely sick shortly after the meal. My sister had diarrhea before even leaving the restaurant, and I followed 20 minutes later. This is completely unacceptable, especially at this price point. I’ve dined at many omakase and tasting-menu restaurants across NYC, even ones at much lower price points, and I’ve never experienced any stomach issues before. This was a first—and not in a good way. Safe to say, we won’t be returning and cannot recommend Kochi based on our experience.

+4