Hwaro

Named for the hwaro, a traditional Korean charcoal brazier that anchors Hwaro’s 13-course tasting menu, this intimate marble chef’s table is tucked inside chef Sungchul Shim’s Midtown steakhouse, Gui. The rounded counter seats just 22 guests, guaranteeing an up-close-and-personal view of the chefs at work on your meal. The price of the tasting menu, at $295 per person, puts this spot firmly in “special occasion” territory, and Shim does his part to make every occasion feel legitimately special. 

The vibe: Intimate, secretive and exuding “quiet luxury,” the round marble counter lets you keep your focus on just two things: your date and the food. If you’re looking for something to keep the conversation going, just take a look around the room. Custom dishes accompany every course, and the walls are full of ceramics and sparkling mother-of-pearl inlays that will reward your attention to detail. 

The food: A seasonal, market-driven tasting menu features luxurious ingredients like black truffles shaved over scallops, foie gras served with milkbread and rich jajang bordelaise spooned lovingly over bowls of comforting jook. Expect the menu to change frequently, although the hwaro will always remain at its heart. 

The drinks: A list of wines by the glass makes it easy to pair with each course. Or ask your server to guide you towards one of their excellent bottles, which range in price from $100 to well into the thousands. 

Time Out tip: Because it’s a tasting counter, expect the menu to change based on seasonality and the chef’s current inspirations. While some of the city’s fine dining tasting menus require a stop at a pizza shop on the way home, no matter the season, you can rest assured that you’ll leave full.