EDITED :
I saw some negative reviews from Threads. While I respect diverse taste buds from diverse people, my experience was quite positive. Nothing was overly salty or spicy which may have disappointed some guests. However, that’s exactly how I love the Korean food to be. And maybe I was very lucky. All ingredients were perfectly fresh and kimchi was perfectly fermented. This probably wasn’t the case for some guests, unfortunately. I will find out about their consistency during my next visit.
Also some guests accuse this restaurant for using “plastic” plates/bowl. And yes, they do use them quite a lot and I have used (with my wife) 28 plastic plates and bowls during the dinner. And 3 cast irons and 1 stainless/wooden rice bowls. When dishwashers in NY/NJ normally get paid $20/hr these days, you just cannot expect the restaurant to offer you authentic Korean brass plates/bowls and pay $38/person for this type of meal. Expecting more is just wrong economy.
Also, they weren’t just “plastic.” They were melamine (also plastic) which is typically better made than regular plastic plates/bowls. All room temperature and cold items were served in melamine and hot items were properly served in stone bowls and cast irons. Properly. I have zero complaint about that.
I wish this restaurant does not get hurt by bad and unfair review. It’s a blessing to have the restaurant of this caliber from 2 blocks from my apartment and don’t want to lose it. Really don’t want to see this restaurant spiral downward due to malignant reviews.
—————— Original review : Proper. Very proper Korean meals at very unassuming place in Edgewater, NJ. Jinjee offer $38/person traditional dining experience that includes seasonal side dishes, several main entrees coupled with stew and incredibly tasty rice.
I think this is the best way to experience Korean cuisine. I don’t think it will ever gain the popularity of KBBQ and I do not think $38/person is sustainable. But I will try to enjoy this gem as much as possible.
I highly recommend this Korean restaurant who wants to experience a proper Korean meal in its...
Read moreI grew up eating traditional Korean food as a Korean-American in Bergen County, and I can honestly say this is one of the best Korean spots around town. My sister and I ordered the gold sets, which came with a variety of dishes and refillable side dishes - more than enough for 3 people even. The food was seasoned to perfection, with a delicate balance of flavors that complemented each other beautifully, never too salty or overpowering. If you're curious about authentic Korean cuisine, this is the perfect place to experience it. It reminded me so much of the meals I grew up eating at home. The meat was incredibly tender, with a melt-in-your-mouth texture and a rich, savory flavor that was perfectly balanced by subtle sweetness and fresh, vibrant ingredients. Even the rice here has a distinct flavor and texture. With its elegant, calming decor, attentive and kind waitstaff, and outstanding food, you're truly missing out if you don't go. They also treated us to jujube tea and dessert at the end, providing the perfect finishing touch to the meal. Truly a one of a kind experience. I will be...
Read moreWent with my family to have an early birthday dinner. They gave us an option to sit in a room or in the hall and we chose the room. It just has sliding doors so you can have a private meal. The server recommended that we limit the # of set meals and order other dishes to complement. So we ordered 3 set meals, galbi jjim and seafood pajeon to share amongst 5 people. The jinjee set is $38 (which they said 60% of the group should order it); they grouped all 3 into one so it was easy to share instead of having it individually. We thought everything tasted good but not amazing. Our favorites were the bossam and jellyfish salad. The seasoning for everything was a bit bland but it was better than being salty. Loved the sikhye at the end which was refreshing. The portion size can be better and it seems they have everything already prepped so there were a few dishes that should’ve been warm but came out cold. They do refill the assorted banchan (both the white and red kimchis were good). I think it’s good to try at least once if you like banchan and...
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