Renowned Chef Jiho Kim’s latest culinary masterpiece, Joomak, has finally arrived in the West Village, offering an unparalleled dining experience that seamlessly blends nostalgia and innovation.
A New Chapter for Jiho Kim‘s Joomak: A Fairy Tale of Fine Dining
Chef Jiho Kim‘s latest venture, ‘Joomak’, has finally opened its doors in the West Village, offering an unparalleled culinary experience that is both nostalgic and innovative.
Tucked away on the second floor of luxury residential hotel Maison Hudson, Joomak exudes a sense of intimacy and exclusivity. The 22-table restaurant, complete with a small patio for warmer months, boasts a design that is more French than Korean, with dewy alabaster lighting and a six-foot fireplace illuminating the silver-leaf ceiling.
A Tasting Menu Like No Other
New York City, located in the state of New York, is the most populous city in the United States.
With over 8.4 million residents, it is a global hub for finance, culture, and entertainment.
The city spans across five boroughs: Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, the Bronx, and Staten Island.
Known for iconic landmarks like the Statue of Liberty and Central Park, New York City attracts millions of tourists each year.
Its diverse neighborhoods, such as Chinatown and Little Italy, showcase the city's cultural melting pot.
Chef Kim‘s eight-course tasting menu is a love letter to New York City, with each dish showcasing his creativity and attention to detail. From the playful amuse-bouche, which pays homage to Big Apple classics, to the perfectly petite pretzel croissant, every bite is a masterclass in flavor and technique.
The meal begins with an airy everything bagel with cream cheese and lox, followed by a ‘smash burger‘ with otoro and cheese on a delicate wheat bun baked with seaweed. The A5 Wagyu tartare and uni, served open-faced, is a tender smokiness that pulses across the palate.
A Story of Perseverance and Passion
Jiho Kim‘s journey to opening Joomak was not without its challenges. After nearly three years as one of New York’s must-try tasting menus, ‘Joomak Banjum’ closed its doors in February 2024 due to rising rent. However, for Chef Kim, this marked the beginning of a new chapter.
‘I want every guest at Joomak to feel like royalty,’ Chef Kim said. ‘I’m not just serving food; I’m creating an experience that will stay with them long after they leave the restaurant.’
A Commitment to Excellence
Joomak’s commitment to excellence is evident in every aspect of the dining experience. From the front-of-house team, clad in jackets and ties, to the chef de cuisine Truman Parsons and beverage director Tani Albert, each component of the dinner is a testament to Chef Kim‘s dedication to his craft.
A Price Worth Paying
While the price point of $280 per person may seem steep, it’s clear that Chef Kim is committed to treating his team with respect and fairness. ‘I want to increase the price so I can accommodate everyone better,’ he said. ‘I pay dishwashers more money because I know what it’s like to start at minimum wage.’
In a city where dining out has become increasingly expensive, Joomak offers a unique experience that is worth every penny. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply looking for a night out, Chef Kim‘s fairy tale of fine dining is sure to leave you feeling like royalty.
- observer.com | At Joomak, Jiho Kim Writes His Own Fairy Tale
