KYU NYC

- 324 Lafayette St, New York, NY 10012

In the vibrant and trendy NoHo neighborhood, KYU NYC stands out as a unique and exceptional dining destination. This Asian-inspired, wood-fired restaurant has quickly become a favorite among New Yorkers and tourists alike for its stylish ambiance, incredible food, and attentive service. From the moment you step inside, you’re greeted by a space that feels both upscale and comfortable, making it perfect for a variety of occasions, whether it’s a romantic dinner, a celebratory group event, or a special solo meal. The restaurant's reputation for having an "unforgettable" culinary experience is well-earned, with every dish being a testament to the chefs' creativity and skill.

KYU's menu is a journey of flavors, blending traditional Asian techniques with a modern, wood-fired approach. Dishes are designed to be shared, encouraging a communal and interactive dining experience. This concept allows guests to sample a wide array of flavors and textures, from the popular crispy rice to the rich, smoky meats cooked to perfection. The combination of its sophisticated atmosphere, high-quality ingredients, and a menu that continuously exceeds expectations has solidified KYU NYC as a premier spot for fine dining in a relaxed and trendy setting.

KYU NYC is located at 324 Lafayette St, New York, NY 10012, USA. Its prime location in the heart of NoHo places it at a convenient intersection of several key neighborhoods, including SoHo and the East Village. This makes it easily accessible via public transportation, with multiple subway stations just a short walk away, including Broadway-Lafayette (B, D, F, M lines) and Prince Street (N, R, W lines). For those driving, paid street parking is available in the surrounding area, though it can be competitive, as is typical in a bustling NYC neighborhood.

The restaurant is committed to providing a welcoming experience for all guests, and its accessibility features are a testament to that. It offers a wheelchair-accessible entrance, wheelchair-accessible restroom, and wheelchair-accessible seating, ensuring that everyone can enjoy a comfortable and seamless dining experience. The space is also designed with a modern and inclusive approach, including a gender-neutral restroom and Wi-Fi for guest convenience, catering to a diverse and modern crowd.

KYU NYC provides a full-service, upscale dining experience with several convenient options to meet the needs of its clientele.

• Dine-in: The primary service is a full dine-in experience with elegant seating and table service. This is ideal for enjoying the full menu and the sophisticated atmosphere.
• Takeout and Delivery: For those who wish to enjoy KYU's flavors at home, the restaurant offers both takeout and delivery services, with a dedicated "Q Grab-&-Go" menu that includes a selection of popular items like the Spicy Chicken Sandwich and Mom's Coconut Cake.
• Catering: KYU NYC also provides catering services, allowing you to bring their acclaimed cuisine to your next event or gathering.
• Reservations: Dinner reservations are highly recommended and are accepted to ensure guests can secure a table, especially given the restaurant's popularity.
• Bar Onsite: A fully-stocked bar is available, offering a place to enjoy cocktails, beer, and wine before or during your meal.
• Happy Hour: The restaurant offers happy hour drinks and food, making it a great spot for a more casual, post-work get-together.

KYU NYC is celebrated for a number of standout features that contribute to its stellar reputation.

• Great Cocktails and Wine List: The beverage program is a major highlight, featuring an array of creative cocktails and a fantastic wine list with options for every palate. Reviewers consistently praise the quality and selection of drinks.
• Wood-Fired Cuisine: The restaurant's signature wood-fired cooking technique imparts a unique and delicious smoky flavor to many of its dishes, creating a memorable culinary experience.
• Trendy, Upscale Atmosphere: The ambiance is described as a perfect blend of "stylish yet comfortable," making it a go-to spot for those seeking a trendy but not stuffy dining experience. The decor is thoughtfully designed to be cozy and romantic while remaining upscale.
• Fast Service: Despite its busy environment, the staff at KYU NYC is known for being "incredibly attentive" and providing fast service, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable meal.
• Family and Group Friendly: While having an upscale feel, KYU is also very welcoming to groups and families, and its shared-plates concept makes it an ideal spot for social dining.
• LGBTQ+ Friendly: The restaurant has a reputation for being a welcoming and inclusive space for the LGBTQ+ community.

Choosing what to eat at KYU NYC can be a delightful challenge, as the menu is filled with exceptional and unforgettable dishes. Based on public reviews, some items are absolute must-tries. The Tuna Crispy Rice is consistently praised as a standout dish, often called "some of the best in the game" for its perfect balance of flavor and texture. Another highly recommended appetizer is the KRUNCHY KALE, a simple but perfectly executed dish that has a surprising depth of flavor. For a more unique starter, the Pork Belly Bao Buns are a flavorful and satisfying choice.

For the main event, the wood-fired dishes are where KYU truly shines. The Duck "Burnt Ends" are a phenomenal choice, described as perfectly cooked and "rich in flavor." Another popular and delicious option is the Korean Fried Chicken, which is lauded for being "unreal," juicy, and crunchy, with a spicy sauce that gives it a perfect kick. The Baby Back Ribs are also a fan favorite, known for being tender and flavorful. For those who want a taste of everything, the sharing platters are a great way to go, though as one reviewer noted, the dishes come out as they are ready, so it's a true shared-dining experience.

The desserts at KYU are just as celebrated as the savory dishes. Mom's Coconut Cake is a signature dessert that is so popular it's available on the grab-and-go menu. It is consistently praised for being a memorable and delicious way to end the meal. For something more decadent, the Dark Chocolate S'mores Cake is a rich and satisfying choice.

In terms of beverages, the cocktails are a highlight. Options like the Pink Puppy and Wabi Sabi are creative and refreshing, perfectly complementing the food. The extensive wine and sake lists also offer an excellent selection for pairing with your meal. While the price point can be high, patrons agree that the exceptional quality of the food, the inviting atmosphere, and the superb service make it an experience well worth the cost.

• Address: 324 Lafayette St, New York, NY 10012, USA
• Phone: (929) 566-7224

KYU NYC

324 Lafayette St, New York, NY 10012, USA