Moono

Nestled inside a three-story landmarked building in the heart of Koreatown, Moono manages to be both striking and unpretentious. The space features soaring cathedral-like ceilings, terracotta tiling, a tarnished brass fireplace, and an illuminated mural overhead—yet the atmosphere remains surprisingly casual. From the same team behind the acclaimed tasting menu spot Atomix down the street, this restaurant takes a different approach, offering generous portions of elevated Korean comfort food in an environment that never takes itself too seriously.

The menu showcases polished interpretations of Korean staples that genuinely deliver. Start with the hoe muchim—thick strips of gochujang-glazed salmon with pear and radish that you wrap in seaweed with a dusting of soybean powder. The fried chicken arrives in a surprisingly generous portion of ten pieces, each one perfectly cooked with an exceptionally delicate crust. But the real star is the dry-aged branzino, which might just be the best whole fish in a city that serves them everywhere. The skin achieves a chicharrón-level crispiness while the flesh remains succulent and rich.

The dining experience at Moono is refreshingly relaxed, perhaps even a bit too much so. Dishes arrive at a brisk pace set to a Mykonos day club-esque soundtrack, which means you might finish your meal before you’ve fully absorbed the gorgeous surroundings. It’s not the place for a formal anniversary dinner where you want hushed tones and white tablecloths, but it’s ideal when you want a memorable night out that feels both special and easygoing.

Whether you’re splitting the beef jeongol hot pot with friends or indulging in the splurge-worthy truffle jjajangmyeon, Moono offers a dining experience that somehow feels grand and breezy all at once. Just remember to pull, not push, on those heavy neo-Romanesque doors on your way out.