Mokbar

- The Hugh, 601 Lexington Ave, New York, NY 10022

For those in New York City seeking a delicious and comforting meal with a modern Korean twist, Mokbar is an essential destination. Situated within The Hugh, a vibrant and trendy food hall in Midtown Manhattan, Mokbar stands out by combining the rich, traditional flavors of Korean cuisine with a contemporary, accessible format. This women-owned establishment has quickly become a local favorite for its spirited take on classic dishes, particularly its renowned ramen and flavorful bowls. The name itself, a combination of the Korean word "mok" (meaning "to eat") and "bar," perfectly captures the restaurant's essence: a place where you can eat and socialize in a relaxed, bar-like setting.

Mokbar is the brainchild of Chef Esther Choi, who was inspired by the everyday street food culture of Korea. Her cooking philosophy is a blend of traditional Korean recipes, often learned from her grandmother, and modern influences. This approach results in a menu that is both familiar and innovative, appealing to both seasoned fans of Korean food and newcomers alike. The atmosphere is casual and trendy, making it an ideal spot for a quick bite during a busy workday, a solo dining experience, or a relaxed lunch or dinner with friends. The focus is on the food and the experience, providing a straightforward yet deeply satisfying culinary journey.

The commitment to fresh, seasonal ingredients is a hallmark of Mokbar's cooking. The kitchen uses quality components sourced from places like the Union Square Greenmarket, ensuring that every dish is as flavorful and authentic as possible. This dedication to quality is evident in every bite, from their rich ramen broths to their crispy Korean fried chicken.

Mokbar is conveniently located at The Hugh, 601 Lexington Ave, New York, NY 10022, USA. Its position within this popular food hall in Midtown makes it a highly accessible choice for anyone working or visiting the area. The vibrant surroundings of The Hugh add to the overall experience, providing a lively atmosphere with plenty of options for seating and a place to relax and enjoy your meal.

While specific accessibility information for the restaurant itself is not provided, its location within The Hugh food hall suggests general accessibility for patrons. Its central location also means it is easily reachable by public transportation, including the subway, making it a convenient stop for a quality meal in the city. For those who prefer to dine elsewhere, the restaurant also offers delivery and takeout options, catering to the needs of busy New Yorkers on the go.

Mokbar offers a focused yet delicious menu designed to deliver comfort and flavor in every dish. The services are straightforward, ensuring a quick and efficient dining experience. Here is a look at what they offer:

• Delivery and Takeout: For maximum convenience, Mokbar provides both delivery and takeout services, allowing you to enjoy their food at home or at your office.
• Dine-in: The casual, trendy atmosphere is perfect for an on-site dining experience, whether you're at the bar or one of the common seating areas within The Hugh.
• Main Menu Items: The menu is centered around a few key categories, making it easy to choose. These include:
  • Small Bites: Perfect for a quick snack or to share, with options like Ho' Cake, Korean Fried Chicken, Buns, and Dumplings.
  • Ramen: A staple of their menu, featuring a variety of ramen bowls with unique Korean flavors, such as the Classic Ramen, Kimchi 'Jjigae' Ramen, and the Vegan Miso 'Doenjang' Ramen.
  • Bowls: A selection of satisfying bowls, including classics like Bibimbap and Bulgogi, as well as creative options like Chicken Katsu Curry and Crabby Shrimp.
• Dining Options: Mokbar is a great choice for both lunch and dinner, and its setup is particularly popular for solo dining.

Mokbar is known for several features that make it a compelling choice for Korean food lovers in New York City. These highlights are what make the restaurant stand out:

• Quality and Flavor: Despite some varying opinions on portion sizes, the overall quality and taste of the food are consistently noted as being very good. Dishes are described as tasty and flavorful, with special rice that complements the main courses.
• Freshly Made Food: Many items, like the paninis at their sister location, are made fresh, and their core menu items are crafted with care. The commitment to fresh, seasonal ingredients ensures a superior taste.
• Casual and Trendy Atmosphere: The restaurant has a relaxed and modern vibe that makes it approachable and comfortable for a quick meal or a relaxed dining experience.
• Convenient Location: Situated in The Hugh, Mokbar is easy to find and access, and it provides a great place to stop for a meal while exploring the area.
• Women-Owned Business: As a women-owned establishment, Mokbar contributes to the diversity and strength of the local business community.
• Comfort Food and Healthy Options: The menu includes rich, comforting dishes like their ramen and small plates, but also features healthy options and vegetarian-friendly choices to cater to a variety of dietary preferences.
• Payment Flexibility: They accept multiple forms of payment, including Credit cards, Debit cards, and NFC mobile payments, making transactions quick and easy.

For those who wish to experience Mokbar, here is their contact information:

Address: The Hugh, 601 Lexington Ave, New York, NY 10022, USA

Phone: (332) 910-9509

So, what makes Mokbar worth choosing? It’s a place that brings the authentic flavors of Korean cuisine into a casual, contemporary setting that is perfectly suited for New York life. While some may find the portions on the smaller side, the quality and taste of the food more than make up for it. The menu is thoughtfully designed, focusing on flavorful, comforting dishes that are perfect for a quick, delicious meal. The convenient location within The Hugh provides a great atmosphere for a casual lunch or dinner, and the friendly service ensures a positive experience. Mokbar is a testament to the fact that great food doesn't always require a formal setting; sometimes, the best meals are found in places that are trendy, accessible, and full of flavor. For anyone in Midtown looking for a tasty and efficient Korean food fix, Mokbar is an excellent choice that promises to deliver on its promise of modern comfort food.

Mokbar

The Hugh, 601 Lexington Ave, New York, NY 10022, USA