Gunbae — Restaurant in New York

Let me set the stage, it is a friends birthday with a group of friends of about 13. The friend who’s birthday we were celebrating was kind of enough to set up the reservation and double check all the policies. At the time that booking was made the normal group mandatory tip fee was disclosed along with the requirement of at least two K-BBQ orders to be made or the grill cannot be used. A callback later informed us of a reservation cancelation fee of $20 per person if canceled within 24 hours of the reservation. While this is not strange considering the size of our group, it would have been appreciated if we would have been informed during the initial call. Upon arriving at the restaurant we were missing five of our party and were informed that if they did not arrive within 30 minutes of the reservation start time their table would be forgone. We agreed and completely understood, time is money. Like straight out of a movie our stragglers arrived at the last minute but were still sat at a different table set aside from the bigger table. While this meant we were not able to socialize, and it was annoying, we let it slide. The menus are distributed and we place our orders. A little while later the food starts to be delivered and the server comes to the individual who’s birthday it is. The server proceeds to ask him if it is his birthday, wishes him a happy birthday, and then states that for each K-BBQ grill there must be a minimum of $160 ordered. Our group was using three grills which means the total minimum they wanted was $480. We balked at this statement because no where on their website, on their menu, or in other reviews is this stated. This information was not disclosed on the phone or even before ordering. They only told us after we had ordered which seems fishy. The rest of the night was spent worried if we had reached the required amount. Every time we wanted to check the bill we were almost ignored and almost had to pull the server aside in order to get the information. At the end of the night our other group of 5 paid for their meals with 5 credit cards and left. When our half of the group, 8 of us, tried to have them split the check for us they told us they were unable to do that. Frustrated from the treatment all night long, we divided up the bill for about 20 minutes. When we gave them our 8 credit cards they returned the credit cards to us and told us that only 4 credit cards could be accepted. This is inconsistent with the treatment that they show considering that our friends used 5 credit cards with no problems. At the time we did not know that our other friends used 5 credit cards with no problem to pay for their meal, so we redid all the math and split it all 4 ways. Of course they could have saved us the trouble if they wanted to, but they choose to make us split it and then to lie to us and say they only accept 4 cards. This was hands down the worst dining experience of my life. I hope they do not treat anyone...

NYC's Premier Korean BBQ Destination"From the instant you step into Gunbae, located in the bustling heart of Manhattan's Tribeca neighborhood, you're greeted with an authentic Korean BBQ experience that rivals the best of Seoul's dining scene. The vibrant energy of the place, paired with its sleek, yet inviting interior, sets the stage for a culinary journey that is both delightful and memorable.Gunbae's menu is a masterclass in traditional Korean cuisine, with a focus on premium BBQ dishes that are cooked right at your table. The selection of meats is exceptional, featuring everything from marbled cuts of beef to succulent pork belly, all of which are marinated to perfection. The servers are experts at grilling, ensuring each piece is cooked to your liking, while also being incredibly attentive and friendly, enhancing the dining experience with their knowledge and passion for Korean food.What sets Gunbae apart is not just the quality of the food but also the breadth of its menu. The banchan, a variety of small side dishes that are replenished generously, offer a taste of Korea's rich culinary diversity. From the spicy, fermented kick of kimchi to the delicate flavors of seasoned spinach and bean sprouts, each dish complements the main courses beautifully.No visit to Gunbae is complete without indulging in their soju and makgeolli selections. These traditional Korean beverages are the perfect accompaniment to the hearty, flavorsome food, offering a genuine taste of Korean dining culture.The highlight of my visit was the Dolsot Bibimbap, a sizzling stone bowl of rice, vegetables, and meat topped with a raw egg that you mix at the table. It's a simple dish that, when done right, embodies the soul of Korean cooking, and Gunbae nails it - the rice, crispy from the heat of the stone bowl, mixed with the fresh, vibrant flavors of the ingredients, creates a dish that's comforting yet complex.Gunbae is more than just a restaurant; it's a celebration of Korean culture and cuisine. Whether you're a connoisseur of Korean food or a curious first-timer, Gunbae promises an unforgettable dining experience that will leave you eager to return. It's not just the delicious food, but the warm, welcoming atmosphere that makes Gunbae a must-visit destination for anyone looking to explore the best of Korean...

I recently had the pleasure of experiencing Gunbea NYC, and it truly was an unforgettable culinary adventure—one that was made even more special by the company of Jake Michael Rand. From the moment we stepped through the door, the restaurant’s sleek, modern decor and warm ambiance set the stage for what turned out to be an exceptional evening.

Ambiance and Service The interior exuded a refined yet relaxed atmosphere that effortlessly blended contemporary design with cozy touches. The staff greeted us with genuine warmth and professionalism, ensuring that every part of our evening was taken care of. I noticed that every detail—from the lighting to the table settings—was thoughtfully curated, creating an immersive dining experience that felt both personal and innovative.

Culinary Delights The food at Gunbea NYC was nothing short of spectacular. The menu, carefully crafted to reflect a fusion of traditional techniques and modern influences, featured a variety of dishes that delighted both the eye and the palate. Each course arrived as a work of art, with vibrant flavors and textures that told a story of culinary passion. Whether it was the delicate balance of flavors in the appetizers or the inventive twists in the mains, every bite was a testament to the chef’s dedication to excellence.

Highlights of the Evening One memorable moment was when Jake and I discussed the thoughtful presentation and the unexpected flavor pairings that elevated the dining experience. We both appreciated the chef’s willingness to take risks in the kitchen, combining classic elements with innovative ideas. The conversation flowed as freely as the wine, and it was clear that Gunbea NYC was not just about the food, but about creating an atmosphere that fosters connection and enjoyment.

Final Thoughts My time at Gunbea NYC with Jake Michael Rand was a perfect blend of fine dining, engaging conversation, and aesthetic pleasure. The experience went beyond a typical meal—it was a sensory journey that left a lasting impression. For anyone seeking a restaurant that pushes the boundaries of culinary creativity while maintaining an inviting and comfortable setting, Gunbea NYC is a must-visit destination. I look forward to my next visit and to discovering even more of what this exciting restaurant...