Woo Lae Oak @ NYC

Yook Hwe (Sesame and Soy Marinated Steak Tartare)

In his review of Minetta Tavern, the NYT’s Frank Bruni describes the côte de boeuf as “sublime,” and goes so far as to say its the sort of thing ”that you dream about hours later, pine for the next day and extol in a manner… rapturous and nonstop.” Complete rapture quite handily sums up the feeling I had while savoring Woo Lae Oak’s unforgettable steak tartare. Some might argue that  Korean BBQ is best appreciated at more “authentic” establishments in the heart of K-Town such as Wonjo. However, I think that trendy as it may be (all constructive dinner conversation this evening ceased when Jessica Alba was seated at the next table), Woo Lae Oak stays true to what in my mind are the higher ideals of the experience- namely a primal sort of camraderie that comes from cooking your own meat over hot coals and a spirited free-for-all over the tastiest morsels. I will admit to monopolizing an entire plate of the Yook Hwe despite the ostensible ”family style” ordering.  Try to eat  here with a big group in order to taste more items (if you are quick enough that is). And just when I thought it couldn’t get any better, an astonishing added bonus are the desserts! Merely reading the description of Tropical Snow (Shaved Coconut Ice surrounded by Jellied Fruit, Sweet Beans, and Coconut Ice Cream) is guaranteed to make you wish you had not been quite so greedy over the grill. 

Details: 148 Mercer St New York, NY 10012-3256 (+1-212-925-8200)