Chef David Shim is an Executive Chef and Partner at Gracious Hospitality Management, a group known for its acclaimed establishments including Cote Korean Steakhouse and Undercote in New York City. He is a key figure...
Insights
KoreanLocal ModernSeafoodStreet FoodVegan-friendlyFine diningDinnerFine DiningCocktail Bar
Last updated: 6/29/2026, 8:09:56 PM
Key Information
Kochi, meaning 'skewer' in Korean, offers an intimate and elevated eight-course tasting menu that pays homage to Korean royal cuisine while drawing inspiration from street food. It is Chef Shim's first solo project, known for its modern twist on traditional Korean flavors and a refined yet casual fine dining ambiance.
Customer Perception
Customers consistently praise Kochi for its beautiful presentation, complex and unique flavors, and exceptional service. Many highlight it as a perfect spot for special occasions, appreciating its ability to elevate Korean cuisine without losing its authentic roots. The wine and alcohol pairing, featuring a diverse selection including soju, makgeolli, and sake, is also frequently commended. While some note the food can be on the sweeter side, the overall experience is described as phenomenal and exceeding expectations.
Additional Details
The restaurant is described as small and offers a dining experience that typically lasts around two hours. Its unique alcohol pairing menu, which includes traditional Korean beverages alongside wine, is a notable feature.
Kochi is ideal for dinner and special occasions. Operating hours are typically Monday-Thursday 5:00 pm - 9:30 pm, Friday-Saturday 5:00 pm - 10:00 pm, and Sunday 5:00 pm - 9:30 pm.
An absolute 10/10 dining experience from start to finish. The 8-course tasting menu was insanely good, hitting every high note from appetizers to desserts.
The cold squid dish with macadamia and edamame was ridiculously good—looking back, I really regret not adding the caviar upgrade, because I can only imagine how incredible it would have tasted! The fluke, halibut, and octopus courses were equally stunning, fresh, and beautifully executed.
For our main, we opted to upgrade to the A5 Wagyu instead of the duck, and it was easily the best cut of beef I have ever had. It was cooked to absolute perfection, complemented by incredible sauces and thoughtful sides. After that was the Tuna Bibimbap—the langoustine additional was sold out but I can only imagine how incredible this already incredible dish would have been.
I was initially a bit skeptical about having two full dessert courses—especially since one was billed as a palate cleanser—but they completely blew me away. Wow. Just wow. Every bite was worth it.
This team is operating at the top of their game. I’ll definitely be recommending this place to everyone I know, wish them continued success, and cannot wait to dine here again soon!
Stopped here while in NYC on a work trip because it was near my hotel. Didn't know anything about it but there was outdoor seating so I was seated. 2 courses into dinner I was like "Wow this is outrageously good". Then I googled it and saw it had a Michelin star! Pretty great surprise. The staff was very attentive and informative throughout. Beautiful plates that were fun to eat. Not too expensive given the locale and quality. Do recommend!
5
I have enjoyed two perfect meals here, in Dec 2025 and again this month. Both were exceptional in terms of the cuisine, service and overall experience.
They craft an incredibly well curated set of new dishes as part of a tasting menu, each dish distinctive and quite memorable. There were no false notes in either meal.
Cocktails are equally creative and differentiated. This is a restaurant that rewards taking a risk, it almost always pays off really well.
Kochi is a small place that packs a big punch. A limited number of bar seats complement an equally limited about of sit-down tables.
5
had my birthday dinner at Kochi tonight. the food was amazing, it's definitely beyond typical one star quality. the flavors of each dish are very unique and surprises you with each dish. you won't feel repetitive. we also added the chef special abalone. my favorites tonight were definitely the first dish tofu with asparagus soup and the lavender duck. the only dish i didn't enjoy as much was the broth for the halibut, it was too salty and heavy for my liking. overall, the food and service exceeded my expectations. will be another addition to my list of places to take friends.
5
Kochi delivers the kind of dining experience that reminds you why tasting menus can be so special. The chef’s signature menu felt like a true culinary adventure from start to finish, with eight courses that were imaginative, beautifully executed, and presented with real artistry.
The white asparagus soup was the perfect way to begin. It opened the palate beautifully and set the tone for everything that followed.
There were so many standout moments, but the halibut, duck, and bibimbap were unforgettable. If you have the option, adding the sea urchin or Scottish langoustine to the bibimbap is absolutely worth it and takes an already exceptional dish to another level. The flavors throughout the meal showed a remarkable range, moving effortlessly between bold and delicate, always feeling intentional and refined.
The service matched the food perfectly. The staff were warm, knowledgeable, and attentive in a way that elevated the entire evening. Sitting at the chef’s table is a true treat and offers a front row seat to the precision and care behind each course.
And then there are the drinks. The cocktails, wine, and soju selections round out the experience beautifully and are clearly curated with the same level of thought as the menu.
If you are in the mood for a truly star worthy dinner, this is a place you should not miss. I am still thinking about that duck. 😋
