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Diners appreciate the restaurant's focus on traditional Korean fermentation techniques, the chef's passion, and the unique tasting menu that offers a blend of familiar and novel flavors.

Experience the art of traditional Korean fermentation at Meju in Long Island City New York.

Nestled in the vibrant neighborhood of Long Island City, Meju offers an exceptional dining journey that celebrates the rich heritage of Korean fermentation. This intimate restaurant, with just eight seats at the chef's counter, invites you to savor a thoughtfully curated tasting menu that highlights unique flavors born from age-old fermentation techniques.

 provides a speakeasy vibe, hidden behind a Korean side dish shop and accessible through a narrow corridor adorned with striking artwork on the ceiling. The ambiance — blending traditional Korean melodies with smooth jazz — creates a perfect backdrop for an evening of discovery and delight. Chef Hooni Kim passionately shares stories and insights between courses, transforming your meal into an educational celebration of fermentation's role in Korean cuisine.

At Meju, each dish is a masterful exploration of fermented soy products and traditional Korean ingredients, carefully crafted to offer a balance of taste and health benefits. Highlights include the unforgettable raw fish course filled with creative and vibrant flavors, and a rare opportunity to sample soy sauce aged over a century, delivering mellow, complex notes that linger beautifully on the palate.

Guests cherish the inviting atmosphere where friendly conversations bloom naturally among strangers, as the chef’s warmth and expertise take center stage. The dining experience lasts about three to three and a half hours, allowing you to immerse fully in the flavors and stories behind every course. While some find the chef’s speeches lengthy, many appreciate the deep dive into fermentation’s cultural and culinary significance. Overall, Meju is celebrated for its passion, authenticity, and educational approach to modern Korean cuisine.

What is the price of the tasting menu at Meju?

 The tasting menu is priced at $185 per person.

 Meju has an intimate setting with only eight seats at the chef's counter.

Is a reservation required to dine at Meju?

 Yes, reservations are required and can be made through their website.

 Meju operates on Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, and Saturday evenings from 6:30 PM to 9:45 PM.

Is Meju accessible for individuals with disabilities?

North America

United States

Nestled in the vibrant heart of Long Island City, Meju is not just a restaurant; it’s an immersive experience that invites you to explore the rich tapestry of Korean cuisine. This intimate eight-seat speakeasy, hidden behind a Korean side dish shop, offers a unique dining adventure where each meal is accompanied by engaging stories from Chef Hooni Kim. As you step through the narrow corridor adorned with stunning artwork, the ambiance transforms, setting the stage for a culinary journey unlike any other.

At Meju, the focus is on fermented soy products, showcasing the chef's dedication to traditional Korean techniques. Guests are treated to a thoughtfully curated tasting menu that highlights standout dishes such as the exquisite hwe, a raw fish course that bursts with flavor and creativity, and the legendary 129-year-old soy sauce, which adds a mellow, yeasty depth to each bite. The experience is further enriched by the chef’s informative speeches, which delve into the history and context of fermentation in Korean cuisine.

  
- **Hwe**: A vibrant raw fish dish that captivates with its freshness and artistry.
- **129-Year-Old Soy Sauce**: A rare ingredient that elevates the flavors of the meal, providing a unique tasting experience.

  
- The restaurant features a cozy, intimate setting that encourages conversation and connection among diners.

Chef Hooni Kim’s passion for fermentation is evident in every dish served at Meju. Having spent years honing his craft, he brings a wealth of knowledge and personal anecdotes to the table, making each meal not just a dining experience but a culinary education. Guests often leave with a deeper appreciation for the art of fermentation and its significance in Korean culture.

  
- Meju is celebrated for its focus on fermented soy products and traditional Korean cooking techniques.

  
- The unique dining experience, intimate setting, and the chef's engaging storytelling make it a must-visit for food enthusiasts.

  
- Located in Long Island City, Meju is close to various art galleries and parks, making it a perfect stop after exploring the area.

Ready to embark on a culinary adventure? Book your table at Meju and immerse yourself in the world of Korean fermentation and home-cooked flavors. Experience the warmth of a shared meal and the joy of learning about the intricacies of Korean cuisine. Don’t miss out on this unique dining experience—reserve your spot today!

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURuZ2ZEZ1N3EAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJ6alY3R1ZwokRQXUSqpo8OIM/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURuZ2ZEZ1N3EAE

The atmosphere of the restaurant with the friendliness and stories from the chef makes this a must go for any fan of korean cooking or cooking in general. Chef encourages questions between meals and each meal has a speech before it. Really wonderful time

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURGczZPRG5nRRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJ6alY3R1ZwokRQXUSqpo8OIM/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURGczZPRG5nRRAB

A dining experience focused on fermented soy products with frequent informative speeches from the chef. The ambiance was pretty awesome. There is a speakeasy vibe as the restaurant is hidden in the back of a Korean side dish shop, accessible via a narrow corridor decorated with an impressive artwork on the ceiling. They played some traditional Korean music in the beginning, followed by Jazz throughout the meal.

While the food was mostly great, I thought the grilled pork was pretty bad, especially compared to its previous grilled beef course, which was amazing. The chef quite frequently talked about his experiences in Korea with soy and the time he spent with his mentor. Because each time he spoke, it was quite lengthy, after several courses, it became somewhat lecture-like.

I appreciated the dedication he has to his fermentation craft, and the food showed it. The raw fish course was especially memorable with its creativity and amazing flavors. Unfortunately, the rest of the menu was somewhat uninspired and predictable, albeit delicious. I would return for a different menu, but I would prefer shorter speeches from the chef throughout.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUREeU9DOG5RRRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJ6alY3R1ZwokRQXUSqpo8OIM/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUREeU9DOG5RRRAB

I had a great evening at Meju. The chef and his stories about the development of the food were entertaining, and the ambiance is amazing. It's a really lovely place.

The food is very good, but on the surface it's very similar to KTown fare. The difference is that the natural fermentation process for which the chef has spent years training allegedly is great for your health.

And there lies the sticking point with Meju, in a way we pay a premium to sponsor the chef's journeys in the exploration of techniques with the hope that it will bring something greater. And it's great to go into Meju knowing that, because then we can make an informed decision.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNqNmV2dmR3EAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJ6alY3R1ZwokRQXUSqpo8OIM/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNqNmV2dmR3EAE

Chef Hooni Kim succeeded in his vision: dinner at Meju should feel like getting invited as a guest to enjoy a home-cooked meal. Many dishes allude to home cooking yet the flavors clearly tasted professional. This was one of my best meals in the past year. The hwe was perfect. In NYC’s glut of modern Korean tasting menus, Meju has set itself apart by firmly rooting itself in tradition and fermentation.

A 3.5-hour dinner here educates not only the palate but the mind as we learn about the history and context of fermentation in Korean cuisine. The experience is much more preferable than waitstaff plopping plates at a table while quickly reciting an ingredients list. The chef encourages friendly conversation in this intimate eight-seat speakeasy. In no time, strangers started talking with each other, though there was no pressure for anyone to do so.

A highlight of the meal is getting to taste a few drops of 129-year old soy sauce. It tasted just like how I imagined it to be, mellow and a tad yeasty, though surprisingly devoid of vanilla-like compounds.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNGeDhtUE1REAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJ6alY3R1ZwokRQXUSqpo8OIM/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNGeDhtUE1REAE

Loved my dinner at Meju! The hosts were professional, attentive, and kind. The chef was super knowledgeable and shared a lot about himself and his passion for food. The cocktails were delicious and the food was unbelievably good! Every bite was balanced, mouthwatering, tender. Everything felt like it had a purpose and I enjoyed hearing the backstory and inspiration for each dish. The whole experience was about 3 hours so we didn’t feel rushed. Would highly recommend!

Meju: Luxury Korean Dining Experience in Long Island City

Meju, established in 2023 by Chef Hooni Kim, is a Korean restaurant in Long Island City, Queens, New York.

Meju: A Journey into Korean Fermentation Tradition in Queens New York City 

Nestled in the vibrant neighborhood of Long Island City, Queens, Meju is a captivating culinary gem that opened its doors in 2023. This Michelin-starred Korean restaurant offers an immersive tasting menu focused on the art and science of traditional Korean fermentation, bringing a unique and healthful dining experience to New York City. 

Meju's inception in 2023 marked an exciting addition to Queens' culinary landscape. The restaurant is built around a singular passion: exploring the intricate fermentation techniques that are fundamental to Korean cuisine. The name "Meju" itself refers to the traditional blocks of fermented soybeans that serve as the base for many Korean condiments such as soy sauce and doenjang (fermented soybean paste). This deep connection to fermentation is uniquely expressed through a tasting menu that educates and delights the senses.

More than just a restaurant, Meju offers an intimate and educational journey into the history and craftsmanship of Korean fermentation. Guests sit in a cozy, eight-seat speakeasy-style setting tucked behind a Korean side dish shop, enhanced by a narrow corridor adorned with striking ceiling artwork. The atmosphere oscillates between traditional Korean music and smooth jazz, setting the perfect backdrop for a multi-course tasting.

 The menu showcases fermented soy products and other traditional Korean methods, offering flavors rarely found in typical Korean eateries.

 The chef shares passionate stories and knowledge about the fermentation process and his experiences, creating an engaging and conversational dining scene.

 With only eight seats, Meju offers a cozy and exclusive dining environment that fosters community and conversation among guests.

Over the course of a 3.5-hour dinner, guests are treated not only to expertly crafted dishes but also to a rich narrative about the heritage of Korean fermented foods. The tasting menu features delicacies like perfectly prepared hwe (raw fish) and even a rare opportunity to sample 129-year-old soy sauce, a highlight praised for its mellow and complex flavors. This thoughtful approach elevates the dining experience far beyond the ordinary.

Meju's commitment to tradition and innovation has firmly established it as a standout destination for food enthusiasts seeking authentic Korean fermentation techniques in the heart of New York City.

Dine In

Restroom

Reservable

Serves Wine

Serves Dinner

Serves Dessert

Serves Cocktails

Meju in Long Island City is a vibrant culinary haven that celebrates traditional Korean barbecue with contemporary twists. The restaurant offers a unique dining experience, blending modern decor with cultural roots, and features a menu rich in flavors and creativity.

Meju

A multi-course tasting menu focusing on traditional Korean fermentation, featuring dishes like Doenjang + Tofu, Gochujang + Hwe, Kimchi + Rice, and Sikhye + Red Bean.

Doenjang + Tofu

Gochujang + Hwe

Kimchi + Rice

Sikhye + Red Bean

Meju Tasting Menu

Nestled in the vibrant heart of Long Island City, New York, Meju offers an intimate and immersive culinary journey through traditional Korean fermentation techniques. This hidden gem invites food enthusiasts and connoisseurs alike to savor a meticulously crafted tasting menu that celebrates the rich heritage of fermented soy products and home-style Korean flavors elevated to professional artistry.  

Begin your culinary adventure with dishes that highlight the subtle yet profound flavors of traditional Korean condiments. The menu features options like fermented soybean paste paired with silky tofu, creating a harmonious balance of earthiness and creaminess. A standout is the raw fish course, or hwe, where fresh amberjack is enlivened by the spicy, sweet, and smoky notes of gochujang, a fermented chili paste that adds a vibrant kick. Another appetizer option features matsutake mushrooms and tender seaperch accented by ganjang, a fermented soy sauce renowned for its mellow umami depth.

Meju elevates classic Korean mains with its dedication to fermentation and quality ingredients. Experience the richness of marinated short rib and New York strip beef, paired with ssamjang, a spicy fermented soybean paste that enhances every bite with complex layers of flavor. For pork lovers, the pork collar comes paired with jeotgal, a preserved shrimp condiment that brings an intense, savory punch. The menu also offers a comforting dish of kimchi served alongside pork belly, fluffy rice, a perfectly fried egg, and crisp gim seaweed, showcasing the delightful interplay between fermented vegetables and hearty proteins.

After a thoughtfully paced meal that lasts around three and a half hours, guests can indulge in select Korean-inspired desserts that balance traditional flavors with innovative twists. Meju also offers a refined selection of cocktails and wines, perfectly curated to complement the fermented flavors and rich textures of the dishes. Whether sipping on a carefully crafted cocktail or savoring a glass of wine, each drink pairs seamlessly with the tasting menu's evolving profile.

Special features of the dining experience

— Each course is introduced with insightful stories from the chef, revealing the history and craft behind Korea's fermentation traditions.

— Hidden behind a Korean side dish shop, the restaurant features a narrow corridor adorned with captivating ceiling art, creating an exclusive and cozy setting for just eight guests.

— Years of fermentation expertise translate into dishes that not only delight the palate but also offer potential health benefits through natural fermentation methods.

Discover Meju in Long Island City, NY—where authentic cuisine meets vibrant ambiance. Savor unforgettable flavors and experience NYC dining at its best! Reserve your table today!

Meju: Authentic Korean Dining in Long Island City

Long Island City Municipality

A 3.5-hour dinner experience highlighting traditional Korean fermentation techniques, including dishes like Doenjang + Tofu and Gochujang + Hwe.

Korean Fermentation Tasting Menu

Meju Korean Restaurant in Long Island City New York City Dining Experience Spotlight 

Nestled in the vibrant neighborhood of Long Island City, Meju offers a truly immersive Korean dining experience that goes beyond just a meal. This hidden gem, located at 5-28 49th Ave, New York, specializes in traditional Korean fermentation techniques that deliver complex flavors and health benefits. Known for its intimate, speakeasy-style setting tucked behind a Korean side dish shop, Meju invites diners into a cozy atmosphere where every bite tells a story.

Meju's signature offering is its tasting menu priced at $185, showcasing a multi-course journey into Korea's rich fermentation heritage. Expect dishes crafted with precision and passion, featuring ingredients like aged soy sauce – some as old as 129 years – which impart mellow, yeasty notes without overpowering the palate. The fermented elements are not only flavorful but also touted for their health benefits, making this an engaging choice for health-conscious foodies and fermentation enthusiasts alike.

Stepping inside Meju feels like being invited to a Korean home, complete with warm hospitality and an intimate eight-seat setting. The ambiance balances traditional Korean musical notes with smooth jazz, creating a relaxed yet sophisticated environment. The chef personally shares stories and insights before each course, turning dinner into an educational and communal experience. This approach fosters conversation among guests, making it perfect for travelers and locals looking to connect through food culture.

 that excite the palate and nourish the body.

 featuring chef-led storytelling and interactive conversations.

 hidden away with impressive ceiling artwork and curated music.

 priced at $185, showcasing multiple exquisite Korean dishes.

Meju is ideal for adults seeking a relaxed dinner, as it is not tailored for children. Reservations are recommended due to its intimate size and popularity among NYC’s discerning diners. The restaurant accepts credit cards, serves wine and cocktails, and provides restroom facilities onsite. Note that takeout and delivery options are not available, emphasizing the importance of dining in to fully appreciate the chef’s artistry.

Queens County

Discover Meju in Long Island City, NYC. Enjoy a unique Korean fermentation tasting menu, intimate setting, and chef-led culinary journey. Reserve now!

Meju Korean Restaurant, Long Island City, NY | Authentic Fermentation Experience

Join Meju in Long Island City for an unforgettable Korean dining experience. Traditional dishes, fermentation focus, and chef stories await. Book today!

Experience Traditional Korean Cuisine at Meju, Long Island City, NY

Learn about Meju in Long Island City. Founded in 2023, renowned for innovation in Korean fermentation techniques and intimate dining ambiance. Discover more!

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