ZipPicks Awards
Best Korean in Murray Hill & Kips Bay
Best Romantic Restaurants in Murray Hill & Kips Bay
Best Restaurants for Special Occasions in Murray Hill & Kips Bay
Master Critic Review
Moono
8.4
Moono pairs a sleek, dimly lit dining room with a menu that runs from traditional dishes to modern snacks and bar platters. It’s become a go-to for groups who want soju, banchan, and a broader look at Korean classics beyond BBQ.
Must-Try Dishes:
Mung bean pancake (nokdujeon), Beef tartare yukhoe with Korean pear, Spicy fried chicken with gochujang sauce
Scores:
Value: 6.8
Service: 8.2
Consistency: 8.1
Food Quality: 8.8
Atmosphere: 8.6
Cultural Relevance: 8.3
What makes it special: Modern Korean dining room balancing bansang-style sets, anju, and cocktails.
Who should go: Groups mixing serious Korean food with a night out.
When to visit: Evenings from 6–9pm when the room feels lively but manageable.
What to order: Bansang set, mung bean pancake, spicy fried chicken.
Insider tip: Ask about bar-only items and social-hour deals if you’re snacking.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking is limited and competitive after 6pm; nearby paid garages are the most reliable option.
Dress code: Smart casual to dressy casual—jeans are fine, but many diners lean trendy for night outings.
Noise level: Moderate to lively—easy to talk at the table earlier in the evening, louder later at night.
Weekend wait: 30–60 minutes without a reservation during peak hours
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait or a short 5–10 minute wait
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—several vegetable-forward banchan, pancakes, tofu dishes, and rice-based plates.
Vegan options: Limited—possible with careful ordering, especially among vegetable sides and pancakes.
Gluten-free options: Partial—grilled items and rice dishes can work, but sauces often contain gluten.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes—dim lighting, shareable plates, and cocktails make it flirty without being too formal.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Possible on weeknights before 7pm, but weekends usually require either a reservation or a wait.
Is it kid-friendly? Best for teens and older kids—menu is flexible, but the nighttime vibe skews adult and social.
Best For
Better for: Groups who want Korean classics, drinking food, and a lively cocktail-forward atmosphere rather than pure BBQ.
Skip if: You’re specifically seeking tabletop grilling or a quiet, traditional Korean dining experience.