TLDR
Trendy modern Korean soul food featuring highly-rated fusion dishes. Perfect for casual, high-quality dining in the heart of the city.
Instagram Posts References
HOJOKBAN is ranked second on the list and features a large, impressive dish. This dish consists of slow-cooked meat, possibly short ribs, glazed in a dark sauce, served with a side salad and garnished with jalapeños and crushed peanuts.
Details
This modern Korean soul food destination is widely celebrated as a top-tier casual dining spot in New York City [1], [2]. Known for its trendy atmosphere and consistently excellent menu, it has become a favorite for those seeking high-quality fusion fare [1], [3]. Whether you are looking for a great lunch or a memorable dinner, guests frequently report that their meals are nothing short of impressive [1], [4].
Food Overview
The restaurant specializes in creative Korean fusion soul food that consistently earns high praise [3], [4]. Diners highly recommend the short rib, Galbi rice bowl, and kimchi ramen fried rice, as well as the ssook-got salad and truffle potato appetizer [1], [3]. While most feedback is glowing, some dishes like the octopus tteokbokki and galbi-jjim are singled out as standout favorites [3].
Highlights / Recommended
"The short rib, Galbi rice bowl, and kimchi ramen fried rice are consistently highlighted as must-try dishes [1], [3]."
Mentioned Dishes:
- •short rib(3)
- •galbi rice bowl(2)
Customer Sentiment
Overall sentiment is overwhelmingly positive, with diners frequently labeling it one of the best casual Korean spots in the city [1], [2]. While a small minority of guests suggest it attracts a trendier, younger crowd, most visitors consider the food quality to be exceptional and well worth a visit [1], [3].
Caveats
Some visitors note that the restaurant can attract a younger, yuppie-heavy crowd, which may not suit those looking for a traditional or quiet atmosphere [1].
Reddit Opinions & Reviews
Top Reddit Posts About HOJOKBAN
Recent Reddit Mentions
From post: Wheres The Good Food In Midtown Thats Not 50 And
"Mentioned as a great option in the K-Town area."
PositiveFrom post: Something Easy Lunch Or Dinner For 2 Demoralized
"Hojokban is a trendy modern Korean soul food restaurant where everything tried on the menu was good to great. It's suitable for walk-ins or last-minute reservations, especially for lunch."
PositiveFrom post: Visiting From Seattle With A Group Critique My
"This user recommended HoJokBan as an awesome Korean spot."
PositiveFrom post: Restaurants Like C As In Charlie
"Hojokban is listed as a recommendation for places similar to C as in Charlie."
NeutralFrom post: My Almost Month Long Food Journey Through Nyc
"The author gave the Galbi rice bowl a 10/10, stating everything they tried was 'insane' and that the Korean fusion dish 'slapped'."
PositiveFrom post: Looking For Nomadflatironktown Restaurant W A Few
"Hojokban is mentioned as a potential option for the user's criteria."
NeutralFrom post: Hojokban Or Take31 Or Nowon East
"This commenter loves Hojokban, particularly their octopus tteokbokki and galbi-jjim, which they preferred over their hojok galbi. They also listed other favorite Korean places."
PositiveFrom post: Hojokban Or Take31 Or Nowon East
"The commenter loves Hojokban and has been multiple times, finding the food legitimate despite a potentially gimmicky appearance. They specifically recommend the kimchi ramen fried rice, salads, and potato truffle appetizer."
PositiveFrom post: Hojokban Or Take31 Or Nowon East
"This commenter considers Hojokban to be one of the best casual Korean restaurants in NYC. They highly recommend the short rib, ssook-got salad, and parilla cold noodles, also praising the banchan."
PositiveFrom post: Hojokban Or Take31 Or Nowon East
"Out of the three mentioned restaurants, Hojokban is considered the best bet. Nowon is only recommended for its burger, and Take31 is considered fine but not particularly memorable."
PositiveFrom post: Hojokban Or Take31 Or Nowon East
"The commenter recommends Hojokban but suggests Moono for something more authentic."
PositiveFrom post: Hojokban Or Take31 Or Nowon East
"This commenter recommends the Galbi rice bowl at Hojokban, calling it one of the best dishes they've had recently. They prefer Hojokban to Nowon, though they find Nowon's tasting menu fun and affordable."
PositiveFrom post: Hojokban Or Take31 Or Nowon East
"The commenter would choose Hojokban first, followed by Take 31. They also mention other good Korean spots in a similar price range."
PositiveFrom post: Hojokban Or Take31 Or Nowon East
"The commenter recently visited Hojokban and found it to be very good, with pleasant service."
PositiveFrom post: Hojokban Or Take31 Or Nowon East
"This commenter has visited both Hojokban and Nowon, stating they like Hojokban significantly more."
PositiveFrom post: Hojokban Or Take31 Or Nowon East
"The commenter has tried Hojokban and liked their short rib. They also suggested Kjun as another option for Korean Cajun fusion."
PositiveFrom post: Hojokban Or Take31 Or Nowon East
"The commenter has been to Hojokban and Take31, recommending Hojokban more. They found Take31 to be good but not special, while Hojokban's short rib was excellent. They also mentioned Nowon is known for its burger."
PositiveFrom post: Korean Food In Nyc
"This user listed Hojokban in Madison Ave as a recommendation."
NeutralFrom post: Korean Food In Nyc
"This user found Hojokban to be 'alright' and considers it worth a try, but not exceptional enough to be a top recommendation."
NeutralFrom post: Korean Food In Nyc
"This user asked if Hojokban is good, noting that it looks appealing."
Neutral