Seemor
Oiji MiA-Must Try
17 W 19th St, New York, NY 10011
· Korean restaurant
· 4.6/5 Google (1188 reviews)
Reservations
Inventive, polished contemporary Korean tasting menu with standout lobster ramyun and Oiji bowl; service and crowding can be inconsistent and the experience is pricey.
Why it gets an A- for overall quality
Oiji Mi earns its A- grade as a Michelin-starred destination delivering exceptional food quality anchored by signature dishes like the celebrated lobster ramyun that linger in diners' memories. Sleek, elegant design and warm, attentive service create a refined experience, though inconsistent execution on seasoning and tight spacing during peak hours prevent grade A territory. At $150 for a five-course tasting, it represents strong value for fine dining and ranks among the region's most celebrated Korean restaurants.
Restaurant Summary
The room feels sleek and polished without tipping into stuffy, with servers guiding a five-course journey and the kitchen sending out sculptural plates. One diner summed it up: "The lobster noodle dish stayed on my mind the next day." It can get lively and tightly packed on peak nights, and a few guests felt rushed when plates were cleared too quickly. The culinary approach leans creative contemporary Korean: clean flavors, pristine seafood, and modern touches like yuzu kosho, foams, and truffle accents. Highlights include the lobster ramyun and the Oiji bowl with uni, prawn, and ikura. Not every dish is a knockout, and a handful found seasoning heavy or fish notes assertive, but most praise the balance and presentation. For families, this is more of an adult special-occasion spot. The set menu is $150 with refined preparations; kids will not find familiar standbys. If you have adventurous teens who love noodles or shaved ice, the lobster ramyun and black sugar bingsu are the most accessible; otherwise, consider alternatives with simpler options.
At a Glance
- Signature lobster ramyun is widely loved
- $150 five-course tasting is strong value for a Michelin star
- Space can feel crowded and pacing rushed during peak/holiday menus
- Strict reservation and fee policies reported by some
- Creative/fusion menu - not traditional comfort food
What Sets It Apart
- choose-your-own tasting format
- contemporary Korean flavors with refined technique
- signature lobster ramyun
What People Love
- Memorable lobster ramyun warmth and heat
- Pristine Oiji bowl seafood textures
- Attentive service that tracks allergies
- Plating that feels gallery-quality
Points of Concern
- Crowding and table proximity reduce comfort at peak times
- Reports of rushed clearing or uneven attentiveness
- Reservation/no-show fees and phone responsiveness frustrate some guests
- Creative/fusion approach means limited options for conservative palates or picky eaters
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleTable Service
Average Cost$165-$200 per person
ReservationsRecommended
What to Order
- Choose the lobster ramyun as a course; it is the most consistently praised savory.
- Add the Oiji Bowl if you enjoy uni and roe; budget +$35.
- For dessert, pick Black Sugar Bingsu if you prefer lighter, less cheesy sweets.
Perfect For
- Celebration date nights where presentation matters
- Seafood lovers seeking contemporary Korean flavors
- Wine or NA pairing enthusiasts
- Design-forward diners who enjoy sleek spaces
Location Insights
Area: Bustling Flatiron/Chelsea edge with design-forward venues, tech offices, and upscale dining.
Safety: Generally safe, busy streets and good lighting; typical Midtown-south foot traffic.
Nearby: Near Flatiron Building, Union Square, and shopping corridors; close to offices and galleries.
ChelseaChelsea is a dynamic neighborhood with a strong arts presence, trendy galleries, and a lively dining scene featuring upscale restaurants, casual eateries, and innovative culinary concepts. The area attracts a mix of locals and visitors seeking contemporary dining experiences in a stylish urban setting.
NoMadNoMad (North of Madison Square Park) is known for its boutique hotels, high-end restaurants, and a sophisticated yet approachable dining atmosphere, popular among professionals and tourists alike.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday17:00–22:00
Tuesday17:00–22:00
Wednesday17:00–22:00
Thursday17:00–22:00
Friday17:00–22:00
Saturday17:00–22:00
Sunday17:00–22:00
Available: Reservations
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