KJun feels like the start of something big. That’s a testament to the talents of chef/owner Jae Jung, a Korean born chef who learned her craft cooking in New Orleans, and combines the cuisines of her home country with that city for dazzling results. Her menu comprises NOLA’s greatest hits—gumbo, jambalaya, fried oysters, po’boy sandwiches and more—but they get their fire and tang from kimchee (the fermented Korean condiment), house crafted Andouille sausage, and a number of (usually) Asia-based spices and herbs. The dining room feels like a thrown-together affair at this point: a space that was clearly once a simple counter-service joint into which a few tables have been crammed, topped with faux candles with carnival beads wrapped around their bases. But it’s that make-shift atmosphere, along with a soundtrack of NOLA jazz, that’s a big part of the charm of Kjun, which, in another era, would have been set in an obscure corner of the Lower East Side, or out in very outer Brooklyn. But the drop in midtown rents, thanks to office workers only trickling back to this area, means that this experimental, adorable eatery can have its first home in the very heart of Manhattan. Note: No alcohol is served here but patrons can BYOB (another savings!)
New York City
Travel Guide
New York City› Restaurant
Kjun
154 E. 39th St. (btw Park and Lexington aves)
Our Rating
Neighborhood
Midtown East
Hours
Tues–Wed noon–8:30pm, Thurs–Sat noon–9pm
Transportation
Subway: 4, 5, 6, 7, S to Grand Central Station
Phone
347/675-8026
Prices
Entrees (all are big and shareable) $15–$30
Cuisine Type
Korean/Cajun
Web site
Kjun
Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.