Step inside Jua and you’re greeted by an intimate, minimalist space that exudes quiet sophistication. The dining room features warm wood paneling, soft lighting, and an understated elegance that reflects the restaurant’s refined, thoughtful, and approachable philosophy. A central open kitchen adds a layer of intimacy, offering diners a glimpse into the culinary artistry behind their plates. The restaurant’s layout encourages a communal dining experience while maintaining a sense of privacy, making it an ideal spot for everything from celebratory dinners to quiet evenings with friends. The atmosphere feels effortlessly chic, striking a perfect balance between luxury and warmth—embodying Kim’s vision for modern Korean dining in New York City.
Kim’s culinary journey involves technical mastery and creative exploration. Before opening Jua, Kim honed his craft at Jungsik, the trailblazing fine-dining restaurant in Seoul and New York credited with bringing New Korean cuisine to the global stage. As Executive Chef at Jungsik New York, Kim played a pivotal role in shaping the restaurant’s acclaimed menu, which earned two Michelin stars during his tenure. However, with Jua, Kim sought to carve his own path, emphasizing a more personal and approachable expression of Korean cuisine.
Raised in South Korea, Kim’s early culinary inspiration came from family meals, where seasonal ingredients and bold flavors took center stage. This ethos is evident in Jua’s tasting menu, which highlights the harmony of Korean ingredients and techniques while incorporating global influences. Kim’s cooking philosophy focuses on balance, precision, and storytelling, with each dish serving as a nod to his roots and an exploration of what Korean cuisine can become in the modern era.
Jua’s accolades came swiftly, cementing its reputation as one of New York City’s must-visit dining destinations. Within just two years of opening, the restaurant earned its first Michelin star—a testament to the precision, creativity, and consistency of Kim’s vision. The honor placed Jua among a select group of Korean restaurants in the US to receive such recognition, showcasing the growing appreciation for the nuanced flavors and craftsmanship of Korean cuisine.
Beyond its Michelin star, Jua has garnered praise from food critics and diners alike. The New York Times highlighted the restaurant’s inventive yet authentic approach to Korean dining, applauding Kim’s ability to elevate traditional flavors without losing their essence. Food & Wine and Eater both listed Jua as one of the best new restaurants of its opening year, while its artful plating and intimate ambiance have made it a favorite on social media, further solidifying its place in New York’s competitive dining scene.
Kim’s ability to blend technical precision with heartfelt storytelling has won him industry acclaim and made Jua a symbol of the evolving narrative of Korean cuisine. With each dish, Jua invites diners to experience the beauty of Korean flavors reimagined through the lens of one of today’s most exciting chefs.
