Introducing “Kisa,” the talk of the town when it comes to Korean traditional cuisine in New York. It’s said that you can experience authentic Korean flavors right here. Even those who’ve savored Korean cuisine in Korea find themselves longing for that traditional taste, now available in the heart of New York City, leading to a plethora of satisfying reviews.
Kisa
📌 Info
- Address: 205 Allen St, New York, NY 10002, USA
- Opening Hours: 5:00 PM – 11:00 PM
- Closed on Sundays and Mondays
I recently made my way to the buzzing hotspot known as “Kisa Restaurant” in New York. Despite opening at 5 p.m., the line was already snaking its way around the block, resulting in a two-hour wait before finally stepping inside.
The origins of Kisa Restaurant trace back to the 1980s in Korea, initially catering to taxi drivers by offering affordable Korean fare. So, the interior design here exudes a distinctly Korean vibe, setting the perfect atmosphere. The staff are incredibly warm and maintain an upbeat ambiance, setting a positive tone even before tasting the food.
At Kisa, they adhere to the principle of one person, one menu. The flagship dish, “Baek Ban,” is priced at $32. With options like bulgogi, spicy pork stir-fry, or squid stir-fry, each meal comes accompanied by an array of side dishes like seasoned seaweed, rice cakes, and rolled omelets, all generously served on a platter. Each dish here is so delectable and diverse, leaving you thoroughly satisfied.
1. Spicy Pork Stir-fry(제육볶음)
I particularly relished the spicy pork stir-fry and squid stir-fry. The spicy pork stir-fry features fresh vegetables and pork cooked in a spicy sauce. When paired with the fluffy, sticky rice, the blend of spicy and sweet flavors fills your mouth with delight. This dish is a staple in Korea, making me long for my next trip there.
2. Stir-fried Squid (오징어 볶음)
Personally, I have a penchant for spicy dishes, and this one didn’t disappoint. Even those who lean towards vegetarian options would find this dish highly appealing. The chewy squid and crisp vegetables come together beautifully. It’s a nutritious dish packed with seafood and vegetables. Mixing it with rice enhances the flavors even more, offering a different taste experience.
One of the highlights here is the complimentary coffee offered after your meal. They provide coins so you can enjoy a cup of delicious coffee from the vending machine inside the restaurant. It’s a thoughtful touch that adds a smooth finish to your dining experience.
Although the wait was long, the opportunity to savor authentic Korean cuisine was truly worth it. I have a feeling I’ll become a regular here. If you get the chance, don’t hesitate to visit this restaurant, which easily secures a spot in my top 5 dining experiences! 😋🥰
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