Joo Ok

In the beating heart of Koreatown, take a freight elevator up 16 stories to find this elegantly appointed retreat. Echoing a traditional Korean home, guests are welcomed with snacks and drinks before being escorted to the dining room, where a minimalist design is juxtaposed with views of the Manhattan skyline. Chef Chang-ho Shin offers a Korean tasting menu that feels both traditional and contemporary and exudes calm, collected refinement. A deconstructed pheasant mandu with foie gras and morels is a remarkable feat while spotted prawn and geoduck clam is dressed with vivid green perilla oil made in house from imported seeds. Desserts and confections are beautiful to behold and equally delicious to finish. A cup of warm sunchoke tea brings the evening to a close.