A visit to COTE in New York City is nothing short of a culinary adventure. The upscale Korean barbeque joint has managed to combine the elegance and sophistication of a fine dining experience with the rustic charm of a traditional Korean barbeque.
How We Started
Our gastronomic journey began with the Tuna Tartare, a delightful starter that was as pleasing to the eye as it was to the palate. The tuna was fresh and succulent, though it packed a bit of a spicy punch. While I found the heat slightly overwhelming, spice enthusiasts would undoubtedly appreciate the kick. The rest of my party loved it.
Next came the Korean Bacon, and oh, what an experience that was! The bacon was simply out of this world – tender, juicy, and melt-in-your-mouth delicious. The smoky flavor lingered long after the last bite, leaving us craving for more.
The Main Event
The main event, however, was the Butcher’s Feast, an extravagant spread that showcased COTE’s dedication to serving high-quality beef. The feast included Gogi Cha (USDA Prime beef bone consommé), Ban-Chan (pickled seasonal vegetables), a Scallion Salad with gochugaru vinaigrette, and a Savory Egg Soufflé made with organic egg and kelp yooksoo.
The Beef choices included four selected cuts of USDA Prime and American Wagyu Beef. Each cut was cooked to perfection, oozing with rich, meaty flavors that were beautifully complemented by the Korean accompaniments. The option to add Japanese Wagyu was a welcome addition, further elevating the experience with its buttery texture and robust taste.
Accompanying the meat feast were two stews served with rice – a Spicy Kimchi Stew and a Savory Doen-jang Stew. The stews added a comforting touch to the meal, their hearty flavors a perfect balance to the richness of the beef.
We also added an interesting rice dish that was also a perfect complement to the beef.
After Dinner
The feast ended on a sweet note with Vanilla Soft Serve drizzled with soy sauce caramel. A seemingly odd combination that surprisingly worked! The soft serve was creamy and smooth, and the soy sauce caramel added a unique savory twist.
Would I Recommend it?
COTE is a must-visit for all meat lovers and Korean BBQ enthusiasts. It’s not just about the food – it’s about the experience. From the attentive service to the vibrant atmosphere, every detail contributes to an unforgettable dining experience. While the prices may be on the higher side, the quality of the food and the overall experience make it worth every penny.
