The proprietor of New York’s “First Korean Steakhouse” is getting ready to launch a brand-new concept for Midtown.
Simon Kim has been steadily making a name for himself as one of the most exciting new faces in New York’s hospitality scene. A recipient of the Next Generation Award from the NYC Hospitality Alliance, Simon began his career at MGM Grand Hotel and Casino while he was studying at the University of Nevada. He eventually found himself working alongside Jean-Georges Vongerichten at both Matsugen and The Mark and leading the front-of-house team at Blue Fin. At the young age of 31, Simon earned his first Michelin star when he opened Piora to serious critical acclaim.
His next restaurant, Cote, would go on to have a transformative effect on New York’s culinary scene. Earning yet another Michelin star for Simon, Cote bears the distinction of being not only New York City’s first Korean steakhouse but also the world’s only Michelin-starred Korean tabletop grill restaurant. Blending together the dining experience of Korean barbecue together with the hallmarks of a classic American steakhouse, Cote establishes a unique, convivial, and interactive atmosphere that is accompanied by the highest quality USDA Prime beef and an impeccable 1200+ label wine list.
Now, on the heels of launching Cote Miami, Simon and his Gracious Hospitality Management company are getting ready to open a brand-new restaurant concept for Midtown. According to the New York Post, Simon and his team have just acquired a staggering 15,000 square foot space at 550 Madison Avenue, where they plan to establish a “multi-faceted” dining concept on the building’s lowest three levels.
The new restaurant will allegedly boast 60-foot ceilings and windows overlooking beautiful vistas of Madison Avenue and will feature direct access to the tower’s half-acre landscaped garden on the ground floor. The garden was designed by the international landscape and architecture firm Snøhetta, and is the largest new public green space in East midtown.
While further details about the new concept have not yet been revealed, Gracious Hospitality is expected to begin the design phase as soon as possible. While you wait, you can try and score a reservation at Cote to find out what everyone has been raving about, and you can follow Simon Kim on Instagram for regular updates on the restaurateur’s latest endeavors.
