Finally made it to Kisa! I was very excited to try the latest spot from the C as in Charlie crew and was super impressed. We were the second party in line at 4:30 on a Saturday. For $32 per person you get to choose a main dish which comes with rice, soup and banchan. We had the bulgogi and the spicy pork, both were delicious! The banchan were incredible and the soup was so comforting on a cold rainy day. We also tried a cheongju (similar to sake) that was recommended for its mushroom and cheese flavor profile. The decor is super retro and the staff are amazing, can't wait to return!

+1

If you want to eat "Korean food," you should come here It was a satisfying meal that made me feel homesick, with a variety of side dishes, main dishes, rice, and soup. The bulgogi I ordered was delicious, and the side dishes that came with it (all homemade or freshly made) were unbelievably tasty. I will order these side dishes every day as they are sold like Korean side dish stores The food here is made with care, and the staff are very nice, which made me even more grateful for the quiet meal I had I will definitely revisit and next time I will try a different Baek Ban

+5

I came here with my wife and we had the best time! The waitress was super kind and professional. She recommended us a bottle of Soju, which paired perfectly with the food! The ambience of the space feels very much cozy and inviting. I absolutely recommend!

Kisa nails that rare balance of depth wrapped in simplicity. Inspired by Korea’s old kisa sikdang (driver diners), it feels like stepping back in time the moment you walk in. The space is small but warm, like a nostalgic neighborhood spot that hasn’t changed in decades. The food is honest, perfectly portioned, and deeply satisfying. They even rotate their banchan with seasonal inspiration, keeping things fresh and interesting. Friendly staff, thoughtful details, everything here just feels right.

The place is so cool. No reservations so you have to go and wait. We waited 2ppl hours and 40min but it was absolutely worth the wait. The food was absolutely delicious and filling. The coffee machine is the cutest. I had red been late.

+4

Such a great spot to me hidden in plan sight. The key here is to come early no reservations can be made . This is first come first serve then a wait list. But after my initial mental frustration it was worth it . We had to wait bout an hour. There is basically 1 dish but served with 4 options of meat. That being spicy pork, bugogili squid 🦑 or bimbimbap. But wow everything so flavorful.

Kisa was amazing! The set menu concept where you choose between beef, pork, seafood and a veggie option was so easy and relaxing. The details within the restaurant are perfect, from the cute curtains to hot drink dispenser machine right when you enter! Very cute and great food! Will definitely come back :)

We came to the restaurant at 4:45PM before opening and had 5 of us sat down right away. There was a long line so I do recommend coming early. Food was really good. I think my favorite part of the meal was the side dishes. It was just different and truly good. My favorite was the soy marinated raw shrimps, rice cake skewers and the acorn jelly. It just felt fun eating so many different varieties. You also get to refill three side dishes and tbh we were full but the end of the meal. The soju was good too! At the end, they give u 25 cents to use it in the machine and I recommend the Black bean latte! Its not too sweet and it just feels good to end the meal with that. Props to Kisa to opening a restaurant that feels new to all the other Korean restaurants!

This spot has a line around the door and countless write ups across several food magazines… for a reason. Excellent experience, good food and great service. The Bulgogi and marinated shrimp was memorable.

This place has exceptional service and great portions. I'm vegan and felt very welcomed and taken care of. In addition to the bibimbap, they also have a ton of banchan items that are vegan (and clearly labeled!).

I loved this restaurant, it is tiny but homey. Josh was super nice and helpful explaining beverages. You only have to choose the entrée (out of 4 options) and they come in a huge platter with side dishes. The kimchi is delicious and so fresh.

I finally visited Kisa. The atmosphere and food were both amazing. It was an especially great experience because they did a collaboration with one of my personal favorites, Fish Cheeks.

This is a must stop every time I am in NYC. Homey, “Seoul” food. Patterned after Taxi driver food stops in Korea. It’s delicious, comforting food. Choose from Spicy Squid, Bulgogi, Bi Bim Bap or Spicy Pork as an entree which comes with amazing variety of Banchan which to me is what makes Kisa so memorable. Sadly, they no longer have limitless Banchan except for Kimchi, but it’s just a couple of bucks for more of their fantastic Banchan. This is in LES on Houston, come when it opens at 5 to avoid long waits!!

Perfectly delicious Korean banchan restaurant. Straight forward, very authentic and delicious Korean food. Service is great and attentive (Andrew was a complete joy!) and the free coffee and nice sized meals were big thumbs up 👍👍

Kisa Restaurant is an absolute gem! We were lucky enough to walk in without a reservation and were warmly welcomed. The owner went above and beyond, offering us complimentary food and drinks since we traveled from out of state. The food was delicious—authentic flavors with generous portions that transported us straight to Korea. The atmosphere is super cool, with a nostalgic 80s-90s Korean vibe that adds so much character to the dining experience. If you’re looking for incredible Korean food and a welcoming vibe, Kisa is the spot. Highly recommend!

THE WAIT WAS 1.5 HOURS. The food was really great! They have a SET MENU for dinner and they give you sides on top of the main dish and soup with rice. The portions are HUGE. They also gave us some drinks on the house :) we got the bim bim bap and the spicy pork and it was all great. Since they messed up our order and thought we got beef bulgogi, then we got a free set of that. I think it was delicious too!!

+3

My new favorite Korean restaurant in NYC! The whole experience was chefs kiss! The vibes were immaculate. The servers were so attentive and nice. The Stir Fried Squid and Bulgogi entree were deliciously smoky and flavorful. I really enjoyed the side soup. Everything in the meal paired so well with each other. The amuse-bouche toasted rice crackers were so tasty. At the end of the meal, they gave us each a coin to get a hot drink from the vending machine. I got the black bean latte and it was so good. This store has curated an unmatched experience that is warm and inviting. A perfect Tuesday night dinner after a long work day. The owner gave us a sticker for joining them during opening week! 💛 I’ll definitely be back to try the other entrees!

+6

Excellent Korean restaurant! 4 choices of meals: beef, squid, pork and vegetables. All meals are served with a dozen of small sides that are truly excellent. + one of the most nice staff I have seen in New York. Thank you for this moment

+1

Traditional Korean food, an old fashioned all in one tray meal, simple menu, food is good and the staff is friendly.

+6

Food was good! More than food the vibe and style was very fun and nice! You get to try small dishes with your main choice!

This restaurant serves delicious and authentic dishes, including bulgogi, spicy pork, and bibimbap, accompanied by a variety of banchan. They highlight the generous portions, the nostalgic and homey atmosphere, and the excellent value. They are attentive and friendly service

+2

One of the few Korean restaurants in Manhattan that I, being born and raised in Korea, found satisfying my craving. Everyone I brought to Kisa, from ones who have never tried Korean food to avid fans, have been extremely impressed with the variety and quality of the mains as well as the side dishes. Visit during dinner instead of lunch as there are better and more side dishes, and make a reservation before heading there. For reference, the food in the picture is the lunch menu. Out of the lunch menu I recommend the Gamjatang!

Decided to visit this place after watching an instagram video and I am so glad I did! The food was delicious and seasoned well. The moment I tasted the starter soup I knew everything else to follow would be delicious. I tried the spicy pork as my entree and it was super delicious. I loved that our waiter asked if anyone had allergies in the group, very considerate. The owner and staff was super attentive. I will be coming back for sure. Loved the entire experience. The place was relatively busy for a Tuesday night. Took about 2 hours for my group to be called in which we didn’t mind as there are many near by stores to visit.

Definitely a Korean place that provides unique dine-in experience. Nice interior decor interprets the old-time Korea. All the meals are the same price, you pick a main dish, then it will be served with all the side dishes, soup and rice. 💬As a Korean food lover, i won’t say this is the best best restaurant for Korean dishes but worth visit for the vibes. The highlight goes to the amazing side dishes. For mains: Spicy squid was a “rice killer” that was spicy and flavorful. Bulgogi was not heavy or oily, surprisingly (in a good way.) They made it light. My top 3 side dishes: ❤️‍🔥✨sauce-marinated shrimp was fire! My favorite one. 💛🩶Fried seaweed roll was crazy good too, crunchy with flavors. 🥚🥄Marinated egg was also well done!! Cooked at the right temperature with rich taste.

Atmosphere was warm, food was delicious. The service was outstanding, Renee was incredibly accommodating and sweet. Will be back!

First of all, THIS IS NYC! It was incredible I encountered this place unexpectedly. And as a Korean, this place hit me right in the heart. The restaurant is clearly inspired by a Gisa-Sikdang, those roadside diners where taxi drivers stop for a meal, but with a nostalgic interior. From what I remember, typical Gisa-Sikdang places only serve one dish and they bring it out before you even sit down, haha. But here you get to choose from four options—beef, pork, squid, and veggies. I went with pork, and the taste instantly took me back to my childhood when my driver uncle took me to one of those diners for the first time. That bite of food brought back so many memories, it was more than just a meal; it exactly felt like reconnecting with my roots. I could feel the warmth of the space, the power of food, and even the respect in the server’s little bow. It really reminded me of who I am. I hope everyone gets to try this place and feel what I felt. And don’t forget the coffee machine by the door. That sweet paper cup coffee and a cigarette, that’s the driver’s dessert.

+3

Perf neighborhood joint for date night! It was incredibly hard to choose between the spicy pork and squid, so I’ll have to come back to try both. Korean soft drinks on the menu are gas….

this place was so homey. me and my friend went and we shut up like it was so good we couldn’t talks. i got the beef platter and damn all those side dishes were very good. i ate all of them up and you get to refill three of them. for 34 dollars, it a bit steep, but id say it’s good to try. we joined the waitlist at 5:10 and waited about an hour on a tuesday night. very long wait but id say it worth it. then the black bean latte at the end was delicious too. id go back.

+1

Delicious food and wonderful staff! The banchan were just as perfect as the main plate. The spicy squid was our favorite!!

Small corner restaurant serving Korean cuisine. Always feel welcome here by the staff. There are 4-5 different kinds of main dish (meat) you can choose, and it’s served with 7 other banchans (sidedishes), rice, and hearty soup. Walk-ins are usually very difficult on weekends so recommend making a reservation unless you’re willing to either show up right at the start of service or down for a 20-30min wait.

This place has it all - an unpretentious welcoming atmosphere, kind service, and most importantly, exceptional food. You can tell there is a talented chef at the helm. As a Korean, I can confidently say the food here is a solid representation of authentic Korean cuisine. I know most people probably come here for the Baekban offered during dinner service, but I am a big fan of the lunch menu. They have taken a few of the most signature Korean dishes and whipped them up to perfection. Did I mention generous portion sizes? I am wary of restaurants that get hyped too far too quick, but if this place continues to deliver this quality, it will live well beyond the hype and become a staple for Korean food in Manhattan, if it has not already.

We came in for a late dinner a Sunday night and it was amazing! I got the spicy squid and my partner got the bibimbap and they were both delicious. The side dishes are incredible (the fried chicken is insane), and the whole platter is really filling, and filled with rich flavors. I appreciated the simplicity of the ordering process for their dinner menu - only four options, and you get a the full experience no matter what you order. The atmosphere inside feels elevated yet welcoming. It’s cozy and there is a ton of cool memorabilia on the walls. They also have a self serve tea machine that I’ll have to try next time I come. Finally, the staff are super nice and friendly, and do such a good job! Shout out to Andrew who is an awesome guy and takes great care of his guests! We’ll be back to try their lunch soon.

Top-notch restaurant the weight is super long so you’ll want to either get a reservation or show up pretty early. We had to wait about an hour and a half after we showed up at 7 PM to get a table. The staff is very friendly very very hospitable and the food portions are fantastic. There are four meats to choose from you. Just pick one and it comes with rice a soup and a bunch of sides. I really liked it and I would go back again. Would recommend the Bulgogi and most of the banchan are pretty nice.

It’s so rare that a restaurant with as much hype as Kisa is actually worth it! The platters are very generous and well-priced, and they have a really interesting selection of Korean spirits and non alcoholic beverages. Highly recommend making a reservation if you can, it’s very busy and the wait can get long.

What a surprise this one was! We were very happy with our banchan. 💯 recommend this place. Go for the food and keep coming back for the warm hospitality of all the members of the restaurant :) Generous portions starting off with the simple no-fuss radish-beef soup. I could had many bowls of just this and be happy. It felt homemade. Then came the star banchan plate. Absolutely groan worthy spicy pork, tasty sides of marinated salmon, sticky fried chicken, refreshing kimchi and fluffy steamed egg. To drink the peach soda was really good. So was the plum wine and clementine wine. At the end we had their complimentary strong coffee and blackbean tea (creamy, new flavours, got to try again)

Wish I had come earlier while banchan refill was still free & unlimited. The food is solid and in large portions. The platters and decor is only imitating "Taxi cab restaurant" style, while offering much higher quality food. Starting with spicy bone soup to get your appetite running. Half the banchan includes protein, which is very generous. Love the stewed beef and marinated shrimp. Though seaweed sheet should not count as a dish. We ordered and shared the 3 protein entrees, all were delicious. The jujube ginger tea on the way out is a great digestive aid. The spot is a bit cozy and loud, need to speak up for hear each other.

+6

Kisa is awesome. AMAZING food, friendly staff, quick and efficient service, and special thanks to the manager Andrew who is super cool. The Donkatsu was the best I've had and the bibimbap was also delicious -- which is saying a lot because I'm from Toronto and our Korean food is lit. I visit NYC a lot and will definitely be eating there again... cant wait to try the dinner menu. See you soon!

Absolutely loved this place! The food was incredibly delicious — it tasted just like what I had back in Korea. The staff were so kind and welcoming, which made the whole experience even better. The interior brought back memories of old Korea, and it honestly felt like I was transported back to my childhood. I was smiling the entire time while eating. And the finishing touch? A cup of Korean vending machine coffee — just like the ones you’d get after a meal in Korea. It was the perfect ending to a perfect meal. This place truly made me feel at home. Highly recommend!

This Korean restaurant may not offer an extensive lunch menu, but it certainly won’t disappoint. The flavors are incredibly authentic — you can tell just by watching every diner happily digging into their food. I ordered the spicy soup, and while it definitely brought the heat, it was packed with ingredients and very satisfying. The portion size was generous, and the pricing was more than fair. I left feeling full and happy, and I’m already planning to come back again. One of the most unique things about this place is its 1980s Korean retro vibe. The moment I sat down, I felt like I had time-traveled — it’s truly a hidden gem. I can’t wait to return for dinner with friends and experience it all over again.

Without a doubt my favorite spot I have been to in NYC. My friend introduced me to Kisa last weekend and I was truly blown away by the food. The interior of the restaurant was cozy and reminiscent of my friend’s grandma’s home and the food was truly exceptional. The type of food you go for when you need to nourish your soul. I highly recommend the spicy pork.

Delicious food and a quaint Korean atmosphere. I think this is a restaurant you should definitely visit at least once.

+6

Everything about Kisa restaurant melted my heart and stomach!! Every bite was absolutely delicious! The atmosphere made me and my wife felt like we were visiting somewhere in Seoul, yet we were sitting in the middle of Lower east side. All of the staffs members were very friendly and attentive which we appreciated. They told us that many of the ingredients are shipped straight from Korea and they also make their own Kimchi! Everything tasted very delicious. This spot is definitely worth a visit and we can’t wait to return. Highly recommend getting there little early before they sellout for the evening.

+5

So good! We got the jeyuk and bulgogi platters. Each banchan was tasty and not too salty. The overall spice level is probably weak for authentic Korean but good for me as I prefer less spicy. Our server was awesome! The black bean latte from the cute machine was such a good way to end the meal. Definitely make reservations! It's constantly packed and will have a wait even on a week night

I've been wanting to come here for such a long time. This place was amazing. The food quality, taste, and portion size were all on point! All of the staff was really attentive and super friendly! I highly recommend coming here.

I love Kisa. I think they’re doing a great job with a cool concept. The food is super tasty and really highlights some banchan that you don’t see in NYC Korean restaurants as the chefs like to get creative. I wish they brought back the pork stew. Also - they’ve improved their table management but it’s best to make a res.

This place is a must-visit any time! (A restaurant even Koreans can vouch for) As someone who grew up in Korea, I have pretty high standards for Korean food, and I often find myself disappointed while abroad. But this restaurant definitely holds its own against those back home. The portions are generous, and each dish has its own unique flavor, making for a delightful and satisfying experience. Most importantly, I’d say this is the best value restaurant I’ve found in the city! The lovely decor makes me feel like I’m back in my hometown. From the crispy nurungji they serve right away, to the rice, soup, main dishes, and seven side dishes—plus even vending machine coffee! It’s amazing that you can enjoy a full course from appetizer to dessert for just $32. And they even give you 25 cents back when you pay, which was a fun surprise! And don't forge to try out their plum liqueur, WON MAE. It was amazing. The servers are super friendly and provide bright hospitality from the moment you sit down until you leave. I guarantee you won’t regret spending time here. I’m definitely planning to come back soon!:)

+3

Delicious food, straight to the point, quick and excellent customer service! The decor made it a trip back to 90s days in Korea. Staff were all very professional and warm to guests. Reservation is highly recommended! Only downside was it was very loud due to the fully booked tables and the texture of the walls doesnt help absorb the noise level. Could be uncomfortable for some.

Authentic Korean food done right. The meal immediately reminded me of the home-cooked dishes I grew up with, which made the experience feel especially nostalgic and comforting. The menu is concise, which makes ordering simple, and every banchan was thoughtfully prepared and well seasoned. I especially loved the 북어국; it was so flavorful that I wish it were offered as its own standalone entrée. The space is small and fills up quickly, so it can get loud during peak hours, but it didn’t take away from the overall experience. I would highly recommend this spot and will definitely be returning.

Friend made a reservation via her Chase Sapphire Reserve credit card (Global Dining Access) for 4 on a Saturday at noon. It was very busy at this time so I’m glad we got a res and had to wait less than 5min. Lunch was fantastic and very filling. Since we were seated by the door, they gave us some hot barley tea on the house. Staff was friendly. I’d love to come back, it was a great experience overall.

Delicious food and amazing atmosphere. The staff is super kind and really makes you feel like family. All the banchan are delicious but my favorite thing is definitely the pollock soup!

Jianuo Sun

I had lunch with my husband here today. This restaurant has absolutely become one of my favorite Korean restaurants in NYC. The first egg drop soup was so flavorful with dried fish, dried shrimp, soybean sprouts and thin winter melon slices. We ordered bulgogi and spicy pork as our entrees. Both tasted very good. The side dishes were really amazing. My favorite was the sashimi which tasted so fresh. The sauce they made for the soft tofu was out of this world. They added persimmon in the fruit salad which was so refreshing. I will definitely come back with my friends soon. If I am around downtown Manhanttan, this will be the go-to place for any of my meals. The diners sitting next to us were all Koreans, so you know how authentic this Korean restaurant is!

Yei Won Lee

Love love love Kisa! I have been here 3 times already with my husband and can’t wait to go back :) We really like their Spicy Pork platter and every side dish and soup are soooo good! Even rice is another level! And their portions are HUGE. My husband and I eat a lot and yet every time we went, we still couldn’t finish everything and ended up taking leftovers home (and turn them into bibimbap 😋). My mouth is watering just writing this review haha. I grew up in Korea and Kisa’s foods are one of the BESTEST Korean foods I’ve ever had. Enough said 😉

Ivie Nira

We managed to get a table with no reservations right before the busy crowd around 6pm. The service was very nice to us and accommodating to the new coming parties even w/o reservations as well The food looked great and tasted great! Always love a good Korean food with plenty of side dishes and they delivered. You get rice+soup with each plate (we also got hot tea). Very filling and worth the price. They felt bad we were sat by the door with the cold wind blowing in they even offered us free-bies. (Really didn’t have to since we were a walk-in party, but very kind of them!! )

Jose

Kisa is an absolute must-visit for anyone craving authentic Korean comfort food in Manhattan. My friend Peter and I went on a busy evening and ended up waiting about 30–40 minutes, but it was totally worth it. The wait gave us a chance to explore the Lower East Side, and the staff texted us when our table was ready, which made the whole process seamless and easy. The food at Kisa was incredible. We tried a few of the main entrees, and everything was flavorful, perfectly cooked, and paired with a huge assortment of banchan (side dishes) that were fresh, vibrant, and full of variety. Each set meal comes with rice, soup, and plenty of sides, making it feel like a complete, satisfying experience. The portions are generous, and every bite tasted authentically homemade — exactly what you’d hope for from a “kisa sikdang”-style diner. The staff was warm, friendly, and welcoming, making the experience feel relaxed even with the bustling crowd. After our meal, we grabbed a hot chocolate and a latte at their cute self-serve coffee stand, which was the perfect sweet finish. Between the amazing food, attentive staff, and charming Lower East Side atmosphere, Kisa is a true gem. Highly recommend for anyone looking for authentic, hearty Korean fare in New York City!

+2

Larry W

The staff here were incredibly warm, polite, and absolutely lovely. On a cold winter day in New York, they really made me feel welcomed. They proactively asked if I had any dietary needs or allergies, and whether I was enjoying the food. Unfortunately, I had just arrived from Central America and wasn’t feeling well because of the sudden weather change, so I couldn’t eat much. But before I left, the staff even asked if I wanted a coffee to take with me for the walk, which truly touched me. I hope to come back again when I’m feeling better and enjoy everything properly next time. 😊

Lovely S P.

Kisa Restaurant in Manhattan felt like stepping back in time in the most beautiful way. From the moment I walked in, the warm lighting, nostalgic ambiance, and vintage details made me feel like I had entered another era back in late 1970 to early 1980 when I was in Korea. The service was welcoming and attentive, and every dish carried a comforting, old-world charm that you rarely find today. The flavors were deep, soulful, and perfectly prepared — each bite reminding me why hidden gems like this make New York dining so unforgettable. Kisa isn’t just a meal; it’s a full experience that transports you. Truly a wonderful and memorable “back in time” dining night. Highly, highly recommend!

+10

Victor Chau

Came here for lunch on a weekend and waited almost an hour for a party of 4. We got their signature at menu for roughly $30 (came close to $45/pp after tax and tip). While somewhat pricey, there was definitely a large volume of food. As a somewhat large eater I still had a little bit of food left to take home. All of the dishes I felt were particularly tasty. The soup had a strong seafood flavor that was deeply satisfying. The cold tofu, especially, was dressed in a seaweed flavored sesame oil that was so unctuous and packed with umami. The seasoning was so good I scooped up all the extra with rice, which made a perfect bite. The japchae, while not a particularly amazing dish traditionally speaking, was executed surprisingly well and was unexpectedly one of my favorite dishes of the day. Overall I was very satisfied with my experience here. While I wouldn’t wait an hour again to eat, I wouldn’t mind spending maybe 20-30 minutes in line to get a guaranteed filling meal packed full of flavor and fresh ingredients again.

Isabella Grandic

Knocked my socks off!! Such a fun, rotating sampler platter. The calamari was so good. The beef was like candy. Absolutely delicious with no complaints. Great service. Need a reservation!! Only complaint is I wish they had a slightly smaller version. My three friends and I were sooooo stuffed, we could have really survived on two platters instead of three, but they make you order 1 per person. Need a “women’s size” lol

+2

Rovik Robert

Came here for lunch and was able to be seated immediately. There’s a lot of food in the seat, I had to pack some home. Banchan are basically full on small dishes including significant proteins like a crudo dish. Overall vibe is casual which I liked!

Cass

I know this ain’t no lowkey hidden gem but despite the hype it did nottt disappoint. Kinda pricey coming in at an inflexible $36 (no other options, must order 1 dish per person). But it’s a lotttt of food and a lot of variety. The banchan are great and pretty unique. We got sashimi, apple mayo salad, kimchi, tofu, chicken wings, japchae etc etc. and all were excellent. The only mid one was maybe the japchae. The bulgogi is a must. It’s even better than the squid imo, but both are great. Don’t leave without a free (very sweet) coffee or black sesame tiny coffee. Delish. Only complaints are that you can’t order less than 1 set per person. And they don’t have sparkling water. Other than that, chefs kiss. No vegetarian options. Good for gluten intolerance.

+12

Delphia Lee

Loved the Donkatsu ! It was tender, juicy and flavorful. The coating was crispy and light. The sauce was PHENOMENAL. Mushroom n onion gave it that early flavor. So 👍 👍 👍 good !!

SonsationalEats

I was truly blown away by Kisa. Their food was absolutely exceptional. Every single main entree was an absolute masterpiece, packed with flavour and beautifully presented. The portion size was also generous. The flavors felt incredibly authentic, thoughtfully prepared, and perfectly complemented by the excellent selection of banchan. The complimentary drinks that we had near the very end of the meal were also an unexpected highlight – the black sesame drink was particularly tasty and comforting. We all left the restaurant feeling incredibly satisfied with the excellent value for our money, and I can definitely see myself returning here on many more occasions in the future.

+1

Daniel Maros

Eater recommended and duly deserved. Fast casual restaurant with a minimal menu. If you do something well why make it more complicated? You can really only choose your protein. We got squid and pork. The bonchon were delectable and the drinks were great. Best of all free coffee or hot chocolate! Very simple place but great value for your money. Staff were friendly as well.

+1

Each platter came with an entree, banchan, and dried pollack soup. Banchan included mul hwe, silken tofu with seaweed puree, bulgogi japchae, yolmu kimchi, spicy braised kitchen, zucchini namul, and Korean fruit salad. The dried pollack soup and stir fried squid were so good. It felt like i was eating a home cooked meal. The mulhwe was my favorite banchan. It was the perfect blend of tangy and spicy. The staff were kind, helpful, and attentive. The only con I have is the price. It’s ironic that a restaurant modeled after Korean taxi driver restaurants, which are known for being affordable, charges $36pp.

Finally got here today.... and... the foods weren't that... great? Soup was amazing i do love 북엇국 and it had a little spice to it. But the spicy pork had way too much charred aroma that I am still tasting it after 4 hours. Hope the 닭볶음탕 was made with boneless meat, it was hard to eat with the bones. I felt like I can eat something like this anywhere else...

There are only three menu options for lunch. Tried the bibimbap one and it was good. Heads up that this spot is extremely busy and you will most likely have to wait for a while if walking-in.

I came here for lunch and while I’m not sure it’s deserving all of the hype, it does serve up some pretty good Korean comfort food at reasonable prices. I had the pork stew and while it’s pretty bony, the broth was excellent. My partner got the bibimbap and it was also decent. As some point I’ll try to make it back for dinner where they seem to have a few more options.

Arrive before 5pm opening with no reservation and a line has formed. Reservation can be made but I took a chance and was able to get in. The service was great and the restaurant is not that big with about 14 tables. I was expecting the food to be excellent but was not overwhelmed at all. I got the bori bibimbap and found the rice to be of low quality and lumpy. The vegetables were a bit hard. For the banchan I like the seaweed roll a lot and soup was very good and had three servings. You are allowed three extra banchan as part of the $32 fixed dinner. The set itself is huge and was very filling. They have various Korean drinks like sogu. I think there are other Korean restaurants choices in NYC.

The decor really took me back to my childhood. Food definitely hit the spot, reminiscent of the bapsang I ate growing up. The ppeongtwigi with ingeolmi was a fun touch, though I saw many diners confused by it which is a shame. My friend and I were feeling somewhat rushed by the staff; we went on a Friday and the restaurant is tiny so it's understandable, but takes away from the experience. Lastly, I saw a large dog being allowed into the restaurant on my way out. I'm allergic to dogs and I wouldn't want to be in a small indoor dining space with animals for a variety of reasons, so hopefully it was a service dog.

The builgogi was delicious and good portion! Especially loved their banchan the best! Although kimchi is kind of bland. And the pork kincihi jigae soup was too watery.

+6

While strolling through Soho, I momentarily lost my way—only to be met with the most delightful surprise: a Korean restaurant, warmly familiar amidst unfamiliar streets. Although we had already made a reservation elsewhere, we cancelled it without hesitation, drawn in despite not being particularly hungry at the time. By sheer luck, a table was available. I later learned that one typically requires a reservation to dine there, and the break times and weekend hours do vary—so do check in advance. I ordered the pork cutlet and a soup with bones—I’m unsure of the exact name—but bibimbap appeared to be the house favourite. The sauce on the pork cutlet was rather sweet for my taste, but I would nonetheless be quite eager to return. Prices hovered below the $20 mark, and pleasingly, when the side dishes ran low, the staff kindly offered refills—quite a rare courtesy, as Korean food abroad seldom includes complimentary refills outside of expensive BBQ establishments. It was a thoroughly pleasant meal. One minor disappointment was the metal cup—the water, unfortunately, carried a strong metallic taste. After settling the bill, we discovered a coffee machine near the entrance, offering complimentary post-meal coffee, and the black soybean soy milk served as an unexpectedly delightful dessert. Next time, I fully intend to book ahead and return in the evening, as the dinner menu differs from that of the day—and I’m quite certain it would offer an even more authentic Korean culinary experience.

I made a reservation for 5 p.m. and was served food at 5:30 p.m. People who came in as walk-in were served first, so it's best just to come really early to get a table. The food was good. I like that the bulgogi was not too sweet. I recommend trying the black bean latte from the machine. It's free. The cafe latte was good, but I prefer the black bean latte. Please note that the dinner and lunch menu are different. This is why I booked a reservation for dinner since I wanted to experience and try the different side dishes and the main entrée (1 per person of your choice: bulgogi, stir fried squid, spicy pork, bibimbap).

+2

I had the spicy pork which was good. they had 7 banchan portions and I only really liked the shrimp, the egg, and the fried roll one. The soup they give was GREAT. 3 free refills on the banchan but i was so full i didn’t use it up

I came here for Sunday lunch, drawn by the buzz around its unique concept inspired by Korean “gisa sikdang” (drivers’ diners). The lunch menu was quite limited, which was a bit disappointing, but overall, it wasn’t a bad experience. The pork bone soup (gamjatang) was flavorful enough. I did wish the rice was better prepared. It also took over 20 minutes for the food to arrive after we were seated, which was another downside. It’s worth checking out at least once, but I’m not sure if I’d be eager to come back again.

Got a reservation for Saturday night although wasn’t needed. It’s good, I got the bulgogi and it was well done although perhaps on the saltier side for me personally. The vibes are great and all the side dishes are well done. The black bean latte at the end is nostalgic and yummy. Great experience but don’t know if it’s a repeat for me.

Cyn W

One of NY's best Pork Katsu spots imo, cripsy skin but full bite of meat, not dry at all! The sauce is also great balance, not salty or too heavy. The dinner set is good but the side dishes are more the highlight. Will definitely be back for lunch 😋

Charlotte Bae

The food and presentation were good. While it’s kisa-themed, it doesn’t quite feel like a true kisa restaurant. The drinks—and the food overall—are significantly overpriced. In Korea, you can usually get a full kisa-style meal for around $10–15 USD. I understand that translating that business model to Manhattan isn’t realistic, but even by New York standards, the pricing felt high compared to other Korean restaurants in the city. The place was definitely busy, likely driven by the hype. I wouldn’t go more than once. Traditional Korean restaurants typically offer free banchan refills and more reasonable pricing, which adds to the overall value. That said, it’s great for the experience. The food was tasty, and the vibe was cute. I can see this place being a good spot to take your out of town friends.

Yuri Paik (Yuri)

From the moment you step in, it’s like stepping back in time to an old-school Korean diner. The interior design is absolutely immaculate. It gets a little small and cramped but it’s super homely. The food was also honestly perfect and the right portions. They offer free refills of three side dishes but I didn’t even need it, as I left feeling very full and satisfied. The service was also great and the staff were very friendly. The little black bean latte at the end was also a great touch! As a Korean person, the food really hit the spot and I felt right at home. My only complaint is that it does run quite expensive for almost 40 per person including tax. However, I do feel like I got my money’s worth from the food and overall experience! Also: we got there at a good time almost right after it opened, but the restaurant fills up very fast. Be aware that it’s quite a busy spot especially since it’s small and limited seating.

+6

Shuanger

The moment you step into this restaurant, you're transported straight into a K-drama. It truly feels like an authentic, home-style Korean food. The portion sizes are incredibly generous, and you get a huge variety of side dishes. We loved the spicy pork and bulgogi—it had a perfect balance of sweet and bbq charred flavor. It reminds me of some traditional Chinese 烧烤 seasonings. The service was also great. However, I'm giving three stars because we were seated late for our reservation and then felt rushed to finish our meal when the next group arrived. The waitress did try to make up for it by offering us free shots.

+2

Y P

Delicious Korean food. Used to be able to get a few side dishes refilled for free but now there is a charge for it— wish they were still complimentary. The service is really great and food tastes very “home style,” which is the best kind of Korean food! Appreciate that the soup is always piping hot, though I would love if they filled the bowl more than halfway. All that aside I will still be coming back because it’s just that good. Definitely go hungry, and don’t forget your black bean latte on your way out. :))

+11

This place reminds me of my gma’s old restaurant back in Korea and it brought back such fond memories. I was looking forward to this restaurant per recommendation but overall I found food to be very salty and everything had strong flavor. I loved the variety of banchans (side dishes) but again too strong & salty to my liking.

Kisa was just okay overall. The rice tasted old, which was disappointing. The banchan were fine but nothing memorable. For the quality and portion, it felt overpriced for what it is. Probably wouldn’t return unless there were improvements.

A place that feels like Korea outside of Korea but that’s where the similarities end. My friends got the bulgogi while I got the spicy pork. Both dishes were dry and everything was under seasoned. For the spicy pork, it was especially disappointing that it had been practically minced instead of bigger cuts. The half filled bowl of soup is a dishonor on a nation who prides themselves on being generous when serving food. The pieces of laver were stale and the lettuce had been sitting for so long the stems were red. It would take seconds to snip off the ends atleast before serving. The only banchan that actually punched flavor were the kimchi and sotteok. Everything else lacked salt and flavor though pictures perfect.

+1

T K

I used to really enjoy Kisa NYC, especially for their great banchan — it was always fresh and had a nice variety. But they recently changed the banchan, and honestly, I liked the old version much better. The new ones don’t have the same balance or flavor that made the meal feel special before. Still a decent spot overall, but I miss the original banchan setup.

Matthew Edelstein

A Korean restaurant that is absolutely finger-licking good! The food is packed with flavor and authenticity. The staff is very polite and friendly, and the atmosphere is truly traditional. I ordered these two dishes during lunch, and they were phenomenal. The only downside is that if you’re hungry, make sure to arrive early because the line gets long. I would definitely go back and highly recommend it!

Good food, but not worth the price or the time spent waiting for a table. For some reason, social media hyped up this place just because they serve free side dishes with their entrees, but shouldn't all Korean restaurants give free banchan in the first place? The worst part is they charge $36 for just the entree (with a limited selection of just bulgogi, spicy pork, or spicy squid) and a few sides. Worse, they got rid of the much more affordable lunchtime prices. Is it worth spending an hour in line for? I don't think so. Additionally, they only allow you to use one restaurant gift card at a time, even though we ordered multiple entrees. They wouldn't even let us split the bill to use a second gift card. "Sorry for the wait, sorry we don't have the lunch special, sorry we can't make the dish mild, sorry we can't take two gift cards." We got more apologies from the staff than we got our waters filled.

I ordered the bulgogi and was very disappointed. It was very dry and the only flavor was something very strong and unpleasant (lighter fluid? Charcoal briquets?). I’m not sure how they cook the meat, but it literally tasted as if it was marinated in lighter fluid. The banchan was mediocre, save for the japchae and the raw fish which were good. In addition to the food being very disappointing, it’s pretty expensive for what it is. Giving it a star for the good service and a really cute cozy home decor/ambiance. Overall, I don’t recommend. There are much better places in ktown.

Overpriced and overhyped, just take the F train to ktown for better food and similar service. The meat is good, and so are the side dishes, but it’s not worth the price. For $36, you can get double the portion in ktown for the same/cheaper. Only difference is that the banchan will be slightly worse. In addition, they serve the meat in the same metal bowls as everything else. It’s aesthetically pleasing… and also results in your main being cold in about 5 minutes. Only redeeming quailities were the service and the taste (when the food was hot).

Disappointing experience. Cafeteria style service for $$$. You aren’t getting an authentic Korean cuisine experience. Banchan or side dishes are free at all other restaurants with the privilege of asking for more but to think that you’re paying for it is wild. The main dish you choose from isn’t special. Been there and done that. There’s nothing that’s really tailored to you nor do you feel like it’s a family meal. It’s basically an assembly line of you in and out without much in return. Really, go 32nd st or another Korean restaurant for a more meaningful experience.

I found a pretty big size of plastic from jangjorim (braised beef dish). I informed one of the staff, then the manager came over. She took the dish and later came back saying it was “just” a potato peel, and left. When I found a transparent object, I thought it was a piece of onion or onion skin and chewed it without suspicion, but it was 100% plastic. I wasn’t looking for a compensation or anything, but the manager’s handling of the situation was EXTREMELY poor, so I’m sending this note in case the owners are unaware. Food was decent, but it was not a pleasant experience at all.