Han Joo

Chowhounds who have made pilgrimages to the perpetually packed Han Joo Chik Naeng Myun & BBQ in Flushing should know there's an offshoot in Manhattan—even though it's no longer officially associated with the spot in Queens. Rather than K-Town, it's in the heart of the East Village. The menu is similar, featuring pliant, tasty dumplings; crispy boneless chicken; and a delicious assortment of Korean barbecue, either cooked in the kitchen or on nonstick table grills with stainless-steel hoods overhead. Cold soju and Asian beer go well with the meats and spicy kimchi. The spacious restaurant has a bright, contemporary gloss and a well-mannered staff who work swiftly and keep the K-pop in the background, not drowning out conversation.