Raon

- 207 E 59th St, New York, NY 10022

In the heart of New York City's vibrant dining scene, Raon stands out as a unique and elevated Korean restaurant. This isn't your typical Korean barbecue joint; it's a destination for a truly special and memorable culinary experience. Raon, whose name means "joyful" or "amusing" in Korean, lives up to its name by offering a meticulously curated 10-course tasting menu that is both impressive and educational. The restaurant’s philosophy is to elevate Korean cuisine, with a particular focus on kimchi, the beloved staple that is often relegated to a side dish. Here, kimchi takes center stage, thoughtfully paired with each course to highlight its complex flavors and textures.

Raon is the second venture from the talented husband-and-wife team, Chef Soogil Lim and Sasook Youn, who are also behind the renowned Korean French restaurant Soogil in the East Village. With Raon, they dive deeper into their Korean heritage, utilizing traditional techniques and ingredients to create modern, artfully presented dishes. The ambiance is designed to be cozy and trendy, with mood lighting and a minimalist aesthetic that creates a relaxing, almost spa-like feel. From the moment you are greeted at the door to the final course, every detail is carefully considered to provide a dining experience of the highest quality.

Location and Accessibility

Raon is located at 207 E 59th St, New York, NY 10022, USA, placing it in the bustling and convenient Midtown East neighborhood. Its central location makes it a prime destination for a special night out. The restaurant's design and accessibility features ensure a welcoming experience for all guests. It provides a wheelchair-accessible entrance, restroom, and seating, prioritizing comfort and convenience for every visitor.

Parking options in the area include paid street parking, as well as paid parking garages and lots, which are typical for this busy part of Manhattan. However, given its central location, Raon is also easily accessible via public transportation, making it a convenient choice for New Yorkers from all boroughs. The neighborhood itself is a mix of commercial and residential, and the restaurant offers a peaceful and intimate escape from the city's fast pace.

Services Offered

• Tasting Menu: Raon offers a unique 10-course tasting menu that showcases a refined and forward-thinking approach to Korean cuisine. Each course is expertly paired with a different type of kimchi, from traditional to modern interpretations.
• Reservations: Given its intimate setting and popularity, reservations are required and highly recommended for dinner. Guests can secure their spot for an unforgettable dining experience.
• Table and Counter Service: The restaurant offers a limited number of counter seats for a front-row view of the chef’s impeccable execution, as well as table service for a more traditional dining experience.
• Beverage Program: Raon boasts a sophisticated beverage menu that includes a selection of alcohol, cocktails, hard liquor, and wine. A sommelier is on-site to assist with pairings, with a mixed beverage pairing available to complement the tasting menu.
• Private Events and Celebrations: The restaurant is known for its exceptional service for special occasions. Servers go above and beyond, creating a personalized and memorable experience for guests celebrating milestones like anniversaries.
• Amenities: The restaurant is equipped with amenities such as Wi-Fi, a bar on-site, and gender-neutral restrooms, enhancing the overall comfort and convenience of the dining experience.

Features / Highlights

• Innovative Kimchi Pairing: The most significant highlight of Raon is its innovative concept of pairing a different type of kimchi with each course. This approach, akin to a wine pairing, provides an educational and delicious journey through the nuances of this iconic Korean dish.
• Unique and Elevated Cuisine: Every dish is a work of art, impeccably executed with precision. The menu blends familiar Korean flavors with French culinary techniques, resulting in dishes that are both comforting and surprising.
• Exceptional Service: Customer reviews consistently praise the amazing service, noting the professionalism and thoughtfulness of the staff. The personal touches, such as a handmade sign for an anniversary or a complimentary cake, make guests feel truly special.
• Cozy and Trendy Atmosphere: The ambiance is carefully crafted to be relaxing and intimate. With mood lighting and dark decor, the space feels like a tranquil retreat from the city.
• High-Quality Ingredients: The restaurant sources unique, high-quality ingredients, including aged doenjang (soybean paste) and ganjang (soy sauce) from a well-regarded source in Korea, ensuring an authentic and deeply flavorful dining experience.
• Accommodating and Inclusive: Raon is equipped with wheelchair-accessible amenities, making it a comfortable and welcoming space for all diners.

Contact Information

For inquiries or to make a reservation, you can reach out to Raon using the following contact details:
Address: 207 E 59th St, New York, NY 10022, USA
Phone: (646) 678-4529
Mobile Phone: +1 646-678-4529

What is worth choosing

The dining experience at Raon is centered on its 10-course tasting menu, which is the sole offering. This is what you should choose to truly experience the restaurant's vision. The menu is a journey, with each course designed to surprise and delight. Diners often praise the innovative pairings, such as the Tuna & Caviar with Baek Kimchi, which provides a harmonious balance of flavors. The Foie Gras Mandu served with aged mukeunji kimchi jam is another standout, showcasing the chef’s ability to merge different culinary traditions with stunning results.

Beyond the food, the beverage program is also worth choosing. The thoughtfully curated wine, soju, and cocktail list, designed by a sommelier with experience at high-end establishments, perfectly complements the bold and complex flavors of the dishes. The mixed beverage pairing is a great way to enhance the meal and explore new combinations. The overall experience, from the serene atmosphere to the impeccable service and the unique culinary creations, makes Raon a truly worthwhile choice for a sophisticated and memorable dinner in New York City.

Raon

207 E 59th St, New York, NY 10022, USA