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I came here dinner with one of my friends one evening and thought that it was pretty good! This Korean-Southern fusion spot is intimate and seating is limited, so be sure to book reservations. Service had that Southern hospitality that was so friendly and kind, and food came out extremely quick. My friend and I got their boudin balls and their fried chicken. Although both were good, I wish there was a bit more of a Korean-Southern highlight within the dishes--either through the seasoning or the sauces. Maybe it would have been better to try one of their entrees, such as kimchi jambalaya. They finished off the meal with complimentary yakult, which I loved. I would love to come back with a bigger group and try more of their menu items.
They changed the menu such that you can only get some of the entrees such as the signature brisket and grits if you do the tasting menu. Since we weren't so hungry, we did a la carte. The green tomato kimchi was crisp and the brine was a nice offset to our dishes. The cod beignets were enjoyed by all but I didn't think it is a must do. The kimchi jambalaya was good but has a similar flavor profile as kimchi fried rice for me to get it again. The seafood jjajangmyun was a surprise hit. I'm not the biggest fan of glass noodles but they absorbed the sauce so thoroughly. There's no broth to this, and the seafood didn't necessarily complement it so well especially the shrimp which was relatively unseasoned. I'd come back for the tasting menu when I'm really hungry to try other entrees.
I went to their newest location on 334 Lexington Avenue with a few friends & the restaurant is actually not too far from their OG spot, but this one is much bigger so better for bigger groups! (I would say 5 or 6 ppl max) We were a group of 4 and they were very accommodating when I had to call and change the reservation a couple times I really liked the vibes in the restaurant , it was very cozy and i loved the art on their walls. it's a very interesting concept of korean and NOLA-style cuisine. We ordered à la carte , we did the hushpuppies and the fried chicken thighs ($68 for 5 thighs) that come with 2 sides (watermelon salad and kimchi green tomatoes) & the green tomatoes were my personal favorite- very flavorful and crispy! They were pretty busy, so our food took a bit longer than usual and they gave us complimentary pecan pie bites and the hushpuppies :) They were very apologetic but it was unnecessary, we were willing to wait for good food! Our server was very accommodating and checked on us a few times, which was nice We did à la carte mainly bc my husband and i were with friends but next time, i would def do their tasting menu! I would recommend!
I liked the gumbo and fried oysters. However, I don't think the oysters are worth it for the price. It's $20 for 5 little pieces when I've had oysters just as good for half this price and more quantity. The gumbo was flavorful with the pork and sausage, however the portion is pretty small for a $30 entree. The catfish nuggets were also really bland. Our server refused to split our checks by item when there was only 2 of us. I also tried calling the restaurant and it went straight to voicemail. Overall, not worth for the price or food.
It was an ambitious trek to the city with a toddler but we made it. That was after going to the original spot only to be told the restaurant moved and the ole mister walked right into the metal gate, knocking his noggin, and was nearly concussed. Anyway, the eatery is up the block, sitting at the corner of the street. If we had known, or if they've updated their address online, maybe my husband wouldn't be sporting a bruise on his shiny forehead. On to the food... It was an interesting take on several items. The only thing I would consider ordering again is the seafood jajangmyeon. The jambalaya was underwhelming to say the least. I liked the corn over the rest of the apps. Then again, who can screw up corn?? The establishment have two floors but their first floor requires descending a few steps to access so one would wonder is that a basement. Top floor have the huge windows so every guest wanted to be up there. Toilet is in between the floors, in the middle of the staircase. Better watch your step, or else you would be rollin' with your Kjun!
KJUN is a really fun spot if you want something a little different. The menu mixes Korean and Cajun flavors, which you don't see often, and there are plenty of options whether you want to order à la carte or go with the chef's menu. The chef's menu includes a salad, first and second courses, and dessert, and I liked that the servers took the time to explain everything. The two level space is quiet but still inviting, and it works well for both a date or a group. Prices are reasonable for the experience, service was attentive, and I'd definitely come back!
I already thought Kjun was such a clever name for a Korean Cajun restaurant and then I learned it's also a play on the chef's own Korean name. I ate at her pop-up at Essex Market at the start of the pandemic and then when she opened her first brick and mortar in Murray Hill and am so pleased to have dined here last weekend at her most built out space to date. I've mostly enjoyed her dishes a la carte but she insisted on taking us on a culinary journey of her choosing, so of course we said yes. After the chef took note of our group of 6's dietary restrictions, out came gumbo, kimchi stew, a very delicious umami flavor bomb that was a marinated boiled egg topped with creme fraiche and caviar. Korean fried chicken, watermelon salad, a shrimp and black bean shrimp noodle dish, and lots of steak. Some dishes were evidently a fusion of Korean and Cajun flavors, but others felt strictly Korean. Everything I tried was flavorful, though I found some of the portions a bit precious, particularly since we were sharing as a group. The meat eaters in the group left full because there was so much steak brought out to the table, but the tofu alternative brought out for me wasn't quite enough to leave me sated. We were all willing to be spendy for this meal, but I think I would have gotten more if I had just ordered a la carte. We paid about ~$80 per person and I don't feel like I got $80 worth of food. I would gladly return but would personally opt out of the tasting menu journey.
Loved the ambiance. Exceptional service. Delightful flavor combos. A wonderful dining experience. (Lunch). So happy to have this in my neighborhood.
Stopped by on a whim and it was a great decision!!! The place was full so we sat at the bar stool area ... this place it small but the staff was very friendly. We ordered a kalbi burger with gumbo and a kimchi jambalaya. The flavor was just amazing. I had the burger and the combo of burger and the sauces and flavors it has combined with the gumbo was just perfection! The patty was perfectly cooked. A medium cook on the meat was so juicy and very well seasoned. The gumbo was just perfection. My husband had the kimchi jambalaya and I will say, for someone that doesn't like kimchi this was so well made. Not too over powering ... I liked it when I tried it. My husband loved it!
This was one of the more unique fusion cuisines (Korean + Creole) I've had in a great way. Free Amuse-Bouche (1/5): I forgot the name of it, but it was free so it won't count towards the rating. Was a bit too acidic for me, and needed to wash it down with water after. Chicken Liver Pate (5/5): This was pretty much my favorite dish and one of the best sourdough's I've ever had. The chicken liver was very rich and flavorful, and the melon/plum was a solid contrast. Seafood Jjajangmyun (5/5): Almost like a squid ink-infused japchae. Has a unique flavor profile, and the shrimp + calamari were a nice compliment. The decor stayed true to its menu as the walls contained traditional Korean folk art, while the general interior felt like I was in New Orleans. I would definitely come back to try the Kimchi Jambalaya, Japchae Boudin Balls, and Kjun Chicken Sando.
Having been to New Orleans in the beginning of the year I was excited when I found out about this restaurant that has Korean food and Cajun food fusion. We got the $77 menu set. The banchan has watermelon rinds, okra and potatoes. It was my first time trying the watermelon rind! It was salty, sour and crunchy. It opened our appetite on a hot day. From the menu, we watermelon salad, chicken and andouille gumbo, oysters, japchae boudin balls, for main course we got galbi brisket &grits and blue crab curry and blueberry smash soju cocktail. Loved the blue crab curry. Sad that there is no ac on the top floor where we sat. Has only 75 minutes to dine which was a bit rushed. The waiter told us about 6 minutes prior the limit ended. It would be better to let us know about 10-15 minutes ahead of time because we were rushing to eat the dessert. I didn't eat much of the dessert. It consists of a strawberry cream cake, pecan pastries and yakult drinks for each guest. Food were great nevertheless.
I wanted to have a nice meal during a very transformative time in my life in one of my favorite places in the world. I was able to get a solo resy and I was seated at the counter when I arrived. The space is very small and cozy; the staff makes use of all the space. I ended up having a reasonably priced prix fixe meal with 5 courses and enjoyed almost everything. The catfish was good but would much rather preferred more of a hard fry vs a pan fry. The grits were insanely creamy and rich, solid take on BBQ shrimp, and loved the Korean flavor profile of the greens. Unfortunately, I did not enjoy the pecan pie/tartlet; very hard and dry. Despite that hiccup, I would love to return and give the rest of the menu a try. As one who lives in the Gulf Coast, this is probably some of the best cajun/creole I've had in NYC.
Made reservations and were promptly seated. We ordered a bunch of dishes and while the initial shock was great - delicious fusion flavors mixed together, I don't know if I'll come back. The price point was high but the presentation isn't it.
Reviews are largely positive. Diners highlight the creative fusion dishes, attentive and friendly service, and cozy, intimate atmosphere.
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A great balance between New Orleans and Korean food. Everything is super tasty and a surprise to the palate. The space is super small so be careful not to clash the table to the next customer seated next to you. Otherwise enjoy your time here read more
Got the Gumbo set for takeout lunch and not only was it packed perfectly (minimal packaging), everything was perfectly proportioned and backed! The interior was beautifully decorated and cozy, and staff were incredibly kind and my food was done 10 min before the ETA. The gumbo had the softest chicken and savoury rice. I LOVE a good chicken and this was 10/10. the cornbread was packed with flavour, and the fried chicken maintained its crisp even after 30 minutes. I would love to come back and try the other sets. I love the southern/korean fusion; truly a unique spot in midtown!! read more
beautiful take on korean southern fusion! it's often hard to balance the strong korean flavors with other cuisines, and i think it's especially hard with southern flavors that are just as powerful but everything worked harmoniously with one another. the gumbo flavor reminded me of gamjatang- a korean soup. but my favorite was the jjajjangmyun. the seafood tasted fresh and was perfectly cooked. the corn was good but think the portion size was pretty large for just my friend and i to share the place gets super busy so we had to leave to accommodate for the next reservation but attentive service and bustling atmosphere that comes with the open kitchen i'd definitely recommend coming with a larger group and getting the group set they offer to try more options on the menu- looking to come back and do the same! read more
this place is super super cute- it was PACKED in there on a wednesday night. it felt cozy and there was definitely attention to service. people even made reservations at the small bar seating by the register which i was surprised to see given how intimate the place was! the fried chicken was the best thing we ordered. juicy, crispy and had a tinge of sweetness. the cornbread was on the dry side- i could do without it next time. i did appreciate how it wasn't too sweet though the seafood jjajangmyeon was the one i looked forward to most. there was a lot of seafood on top which i was super stoked about! it all tasted very fresh and not frozen. it was interesting that they used glass starch noodles, i've never had that with this kind of dish but i liked the texture. the sauce was on the salty side, so we actually put some water in but later the staff came around asking how our meals were and they were super accommodating and receptive to feedback. she even brought us some dessert to say thanks for coming. please provide your honest reviews in person bc they're genuinely looking for your feedback! loved the people and ambiance. very casual dining spot :) read more
2 years ago
Came here during lunch got their fish and chips as well as the chicken sandwich. The food tasted great and the chef checked in on us and asked us how the food was. It was a cute place with very little seating so I would recommend reserving ahead of hand for a group larger than 2 read more
1 year ago
4 years ago
This tiny but cozy spot happened to be by my office, and was highly recommended by a coworker. I was immediately hooked by everything being so flavorful! The owner is super sweet, and thanked us as we picked up our order. The chicken sando is amazingly juicy, crispy and packing a huge flavor punch from the go-honey sauce! Also those honey brown butter chips? I wish I could eat them every day. Cajun spices + the Korean heat = must visit for this place. read more
We got the set dinner for two ($115) which includes one starter, two entrees, two sides, and a dessert. We got oysters to start and they were super juicy and flavourful! For mains, we picked fried chicken and seafood jajangmyeon. The chef heard us deliberating between seafood jajangmyeon or seafood jambalaya and ended up giving us a sampler of the jambalaya so we were very grateful for such kind hospitality! I LOVED the fried chicken, as well as the green tomato kimchi and potato daikon salad as our sides. The restaurant is pretty small and is a little tight in space but ambience was good and we had a great time. read more
4 years ago
I saw this spot while scrolling through my Instagram feed. I came across their chicke sandwich which looked delicious so I decided to go by this place and give it a try. Upon arriving around 4:45 there wasn't anyone onside. It got very busy a few minutes after 5pm. My friend and I were graciously greeted by who I believe was the owner. She was very nice and let us take our time looking over their menu. We ordered 2 dishes the gumbo and the fried chicken along with a drink that they make in house. The ordering of food was very fast for the total of 3 items it was around $60 which we were very surprised but decided that it was worth it due to the taste of the food. The fried chicken order cam with 3 big pieces of fried chicken breast. The chicken was crispy and juicy. The hot honey saice was good as well. It is not so spicy so anyone can have a taste of the hot honey sauce. The gumbo was interesting but spicy hot and delicious. The rice felt a little hard but once the gumbo was added on top it softened it up. The food was good and highly recommend it. 4.5/5 I do recommend going during their lunch time for a less pricey menu. read more
2 years ago
I tried Kjun for the first time and it was absolutely exceptional. Korean dishes modernized with unique Cajun flavors with a fun and fresh take. I go to Korean restaurants all the time and it's one of my favorite cuisines. This restaurant was a great way to have unique versions of some of my favorite dishes I love. Everything we had was wonderful, but my absolute favorite was the fried chicken. It was some of the best I've ever had. Lastly, the service was so warm, kind, and friendly that outside of the fantastic food, I would go back just to talk to the staff again. Highly recommend and will be back. read more
I stepped into a welcoming boutique of a spot but wow, full of flavor and uniqueness. I didn't think I needed a fusion of Korean and Cajun, but I have my answer now. It felt more like a takeout spot but there are seats there for you to dine in. The service was excellent and casual throughout, homely I suppose. We ordered the fried chicken and jambalaya. Both dishes at first glance looks ordinary, but after grabbing a bite, I can taste the difference in skill level that elevated the dish above okay to excellence. Small details like rice texture, abundance of flavor took it to the next level. The chicken was cooked perfectly, crispy on the outside, tender inside. Price is up there but for these unique flavors, it was worth it. Also good portion so you should be full with a single dish, perhaps even being able to share it. I'm quite intrigued by the restaurant and look forward to returning. read more
7 months ago
4 years ago
Saw KJUN on IG (@kjunnyc) and went on 12/28. Chef Jae's hospitality is best in-class. She greeted us, gave us recommendations, made us feel welcomed, etc. As for the food, I tried their fried chicken and gumbo combo, and quickly wished I ordered a full portion of the gumbo. It's the best gumbo I've ever had. The fried chicken and spicy honey combo was bursting with umami :). I found out later that Chef Jae was on Top Chef. It's 12/31 today, I've already binged 8 episodes of Top Chef season 19, and only want to try more of her cooking! I've already planned my next trip to KJUN. I can't wait. read more
3 years ago
Collard greens and the noodles were my favorite. The fried oysters wasn't good... too much batter and the oysters inside was really flavorless and uncooked. Sangria was okay and their pecan pie was different read more
8 months ago
1 year ago
We came just before the kitchen closed but they seated us immediately and everything came out quick. The food is definitely a little spicy of course but it's all really tasty. The owner let us have a second desert for free because she saw how much we enjoyed it. Definitely recommend coming here! read more
2 years ago
Amazing everything was really good and the food was stunning and the tea was really good and great service as well read more
1 year ago
2 years ago
2 years ago
Until eating at Kjun, I had never even considered the possibility of Korean Cajun fusion. We got the family menu at a very reasonable price, and after trying almost every app, entre, and dessert offered (including crawfish fresh from Louisiana that morning) I can confirm this cuisine is both original and really, really delicious! Expect Cajun classics with lots of acid / fermented undertones. Every single dish was unique in an unexpected way and thoroughly enjoyed. If you plan to try the family/tasting menu (which I highly recommend!), come hungry -- they'll give you more dishes! We had excellent service, and received constant and direct attention from both waitstaff and folks in the kitchen answering questions, introducing new dishes, and wondering if we wanted more of anything. My personal favorite dishes were the squid ink noodles and the cornbread. read more
Chef Jung is a one woman show and what a show it is! From her intimate space she served up a fresh take on Korean cuisine with her time in New Orleans. The seafood jjajangmyeon was unlike any I've had before - light and chewy savory noodles that was not overpowered by the sauce with delicately fried oysters, shrimp, and calamari. And then there were the ribs - tangy and sweet explosions in your mouth, cooked to perfection! Also had her house made Misugaru drink - pleasant, mild, nutty flavor that helps clean the palate between yummy bites of rib. Overhead a lady ask if there was a "light menu item" for lunch and Chef Jung said with a chuckle that "people don't come here for a light lunch!" I "heartily" agree. Enjoy! read more
3 years ago
The chef has absolutely smashed the food. Such welcoming service - it doesn't look like much when you first enter, but the food is a must try. Korean-Cajun is just too unique to pass up. The shrimp and grits and gumbo were absolutely delicious. We also got the po-boy which was really big in itself, and soooo filling. Super happy to have this hole in the wall in the neighborhood, and finally a good Po-boy spot!! read more
4 years ago
Chef Jae has never disappointed me. Her jambalaya absolutely rocks my world. I'll put her fried chicken up against any place, and her ribs are amazing. Plus you can grab a Top Chef special from her. read more
3 years ago
What a wonderful restaurant. Every dish is so balanced and complex and nuanced. Flavors and textures blend perfectly . My favorites so far are the gumbo, the chicken liver mousse, and the brown butter honey chips, but i've been here five times, and truthfully, everything I've tried so far has been terrific. Can't wait to go back! read more
1 year ago
1 year ago
2 years ago
3 years ago
Found this place somewhere and so glad I came. The fried chicken sando set was ridiculous. The chicken is a crunchy coating which being moist in the middle. The sauce thag comes with it isn't too spicy either. Make sure to get the HBB chips!! They are unbelievable. Not sure how they make them but they are awesome. It is a small place so dining in is tight. Overall, it is a must try in the area. read more
1 year ago
3 years ago
Small unpretentious place with a few tables and exposed kitchen. This place is about the food, not the dinner candles and white tablecloth. The po boys are big and delicious. Fried oysters, great. Best grits ever. Insanely flavorful collards. Friendly, efficient. Not crazy about the purposefully greasy "chips" they're OK--- this is not your English fish & chips but the fried catfish is delicious. Complementary little amuse bouche, quite nice. Chef on site. Also, good music: The Roots, Rebirth, in keepin with the NOLA theme with Korean accent. Rather expensive for my limited budget but worth it. Lunch and dinner menus. read more
2 years ago
4 years ago
TLDR: The food is amazing, the staff are extremely friendly, and the venue is small, but laidback and fairly quite. I found and decided to come here for dinner with friends from high school after coming into the city and it was BEST decision I've ever made!!! When we first walked into the humble restaurant around 6pm on a Saturday night, it was already bustling with a few groups of 2-4 people and a couple of single diners. The atmosphere was very laid back and fairly quiet for being a smaller space. The wait staff (the owner and one other waiter lol) greeted us and directed us to a table within seconds of entering the restaurant and was friendly and attentive the entire meal! I ended up ordering the BBQ Pork ribs and one of my friends ordered the Fried Heirloom Chicken and we went splitzies to give everything a little try. OMG, the chicken was magnificently juicy and came right off of the bone! It was easy to eat, delicious, and a fairly big sized chunk of chicken thigh. The coating on the chicken was probably the best I'd ever seen and tasted. It was spectacularly crunchy, adhered to the chicken well and didn't just fall off when I bit into it, and had this beautiful smoky and peppery taste. The BBQ pork ribs were also heavenly! There were no meat on the bones when we had finished one, because they were just so darn good, but two, because the bone just slid right off the rib meat. The ribs were seasoned wonderfully; however, the meat was a little bit dry. Overall, this is a gem of a restaurant and a true miracle on 39th street. I hope that one day, the owner/chef can showcase her wonderful food in a larger venue/ restaurant and share her ambrosia with all of NYC! read more
2 years ago
2 years ago
More info about Kjun
154 E 39th St
New York, NY 10016
Murray Hill, Midtown East
Directions
(347) 675-8026
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Visit Website
https://www.kjun.nyc
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Are there any gluten-free menu options?
Yes! And the chef also asks if there are any dietary restrictions in your party
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