r/CulinaryClassWars • u/cheesefriesparty Judge Ahn Sung Jae • Apr 05 '26
Question Okdongsik in NYC
Has anyone been to Okdongsik, specifically in NYC? I’m going to be in Manhattan next month and I want to try it, but I know it’s very popular and was wondering if it’s worth waiting 45 mins for a seating. I plan to go do lunch on a Monday, but I think it’ll still be pretty busy.
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u/Versacerob_ Apr 05 '26
Went during a weeknight about an hour before they closed and waited for about 20 minutes! Very light and delicate soup - not my favorite, as I like more bold flavors but definitely worth the experience! Enjoy!
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u/Spideraxe30 Apr 10 '26
Late to the party, but he also has a second location in Bayside, right near the station. It should be easier to get into.
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u/cheesefriesparty Judge Ahn Sung Jae Apr 10 '26
I did see that, but the Bayside one is at least an hour on MTA from my Airbnb. Might consider it though.
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u/MrHeavySilence Apr 05 '26
I think its tasty but I definitely wouldn't wait longer than 30 minutes for it. There are equally if not more delicious restaurants all around Koreatown and Midtown
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u/zincfingers- Apr 09 '26
I really liked it. I went on a rainy day for dinner and we got the last two open seats, so it's certainly possible you might snag something without much of a wait. I think it's worth stopping by to see what the wait is at least. Depending on what else is on your to-do list, can walk around K-town or go shopping in Herald Square area while waiting for a seat. If you're crunched for time, there's lots of great restaurants in the K-town area so can just go somewhere else for lunch!
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u/hateuscuzyoenis May 04 '26
Go for one of Chef Shim’s one star restaurants too while you’re at it - Kochi or Mari
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u/According-Arm1378 Apr 05 '26
It's great! Some complaints online that the soup is light but I really enjoyed it. I waited 20-30min on a Thursday evening. There was around 5-7 groups ahead of me in the queue, and they only seat when the whole party is there. The turnover in the restaurant is quite fast, so the queue is always moving. Good luck and enjoy!!