New Yorkers won’t just be passing through the subway station at 32nd Street and Broadway to catch the train, but to enjoy a magnificent dining experience. Nōksu, K-town’s newest restaurant at 49 West 32 Street, has opened at its inconspicuous venue just last fall.
Customers must locate the unassuming black door at the bottom the the stairs in the subway station and enter a special key code to enter. Once inside, guests will be wowed by the subterranean dining room that was inspired by sumuk-hwa, which are Korean ink wash paintings.
The name Nōksu aligns with its underground location as it signifies a deep and clear valley in the mountains. Interestingly enough, the space was actually once home to a newsstand and a barbershop.
The fine dining establishment specializes in Korean flavors and ingredients with its new spring menu that’s 11-courses for $168, served by Chef Dae Kim. Guests can add on a Korean spirits pairing for $110.
Nōksu menu highlights include Surf Clam and BBQ Squab. The entire menu, which is predominately seafood, is representative of Chef Dae Kim’s fine dining background with a touch of nostalgia from his childhood in Korea. Find the full menu on Nōksu’s website.
Owners Bobby Kwak and Joseph Ko are not only the founders of Korean nightclubs Mission and Circle, but the owners of KBBQ spot, Ahgassi Gopchang, and Korean gelato spot, Sundae’s Best.
Reservations are available on Resy.
📍 49 West 32nd Street