nycgo / maps

Koreatown

In the heart of midtown, within sight of Macy’s and Herald Square, Koreatown—or K-Town, as it’s affectionately known—is a few blocks of neon-lit storefronts and karaoke parlors offering a taste of Seoul in the middle of the Big Apple. A few Korean restaurants opened here in the 1980s, and the area has since grown into a full-fledged enclave of authentic cuisine, stores and entertainment. Upscale karaoke lounges with private rooms are popular with the late-night birthday-party crowd, while nearby office workers often escape to 32nd Street for a bowl of bibimbap (and a frozen yogurt to go) at lunch. Sought-after specialties at the eateries include the bulgogi marinated beef that patrons can barbecue on grills at their tables and the wide assortment of Korean tapas—including kimchi—served along with meals. Stop by one of the popular restaurants or coffee shops for a bite to eat, or just spend an afternoon browsing the small storefronts selling cell-phone accessories, cute stationery and other knickknacks.