When asking yourself about something to do near me in New York with a group of friends or family, consider
Barn Joo 35
Why Barn Joo 35 is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Barn Joo 35 is a vibrant dining destination in Midtown Manhattan renowned for its unique fusion of Korean flavors with a farm-to-table approach. Founded by Charles Chong, the restaurant emphasizes using locally sourced ingredients to craft an exciting array of Korean tapas that blend traditional soul food with innovative culinary techniques. This approach creates dishes that are both exotic and accessible, making Barn Joo 35 an excellent place to gather with friends, whether for lunch, dinner, or late-night drinks. The lively yet approachable atmosphere invites guests to enjoy comfort foods elevated by Korean flavors in a welcoming setting. Highlights of the menu include perfectly spiced wings, tender beef bulgogi, and creative small plates such as duck tacos and pork dumplings. Their commitment to trustworthiness, respect, uniqueness, simplicity, and togetherness ensures a memorable experience rooted in quality and cultural celebration. With vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options, Barn Joo 35 also caters to a variety of dietary needs, making it a flexible choice for group outings.
Here's what people think of Barn Joo 35
As of recent, Barn Joo 35 holds a 4.4-star rating based on 1620 reviews.
Customer reviews commonly praise Barn Joo 35 for its excellent Korean fare, highlighting the delicious and boldly flavored dishes such as beef bulgogi, wings, duck tacos, and dumplings. Positive reviews frequently mention the effective use of fresh, farm-to-table ingredients that bring out deep, rich flavors while maintaining a simple and relatable presentation. Many guests appreciate the inviting atmosphere, friendly service, and the variety of dishes suitable for sharing, which makes it a great spot for social dining. The inclusion of vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options also earns favorable comments for accommodating diverse tastes and dietary preferences. On the other hand, some negative reviews cite occasional inconsistencies in service pacing and menu availability, with a few patrons noting it can get crowded during peak hours. A few reviews also mention that certain dishes may have flavors that are more adventurous and may not suit all palates. Overall, the balance of positive feedback overwhelmingly reflects a well-regarded dining experience, with Barn Joo 35 celebrated as a top Korean-inspired restaurant in New York City for both locals and visitors seeking exceptional Korean tapas in a sophisticated yet approachable environment.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Mimi Coleman
This Korean restaurant is one of my favorites! The food is always amazing — I love every dish and honestly can’t even pick a favorite. The vibes are great and fun, though it can get pretty crowded during dinner. One of the coolest things is their fancy cocktail flight with four different flavors, each served in a glass that lights up — such a fun and unique touch! Totally worth a visit every time.
Jennifer Lee
Food was really good. They have a good happy hour drink selection. You can spin the wheel to win prizes when booking a reservation!! One of the best service. Our server checked in on our party multiple times and explained how to properly eat each dish to us. The vibes were great. Pretty spacious (upstairs too).
Andrew Lam
We stopped by to escape the rainy day and found ourselves delighted by the Galbi-jjim. The beef was quite tender and the supplemental vegetables were well prepared. The corn was a bit starchy, but was nice with the sauce. The shrimp was seasoned well. The restaurant was on the loud side, so it was occasionally difficult to hear people at our table
Yunong Shi
One of the better Korean restaurants around 35th, and a great alternative if you don’t want to wait 45+ minutes at Cho Dang Gol. Though the place is called Barn Joo, I didn’t try their alcohol. Their uni bowl is a standout — $26 for that much uni in NYC is a rare find, and the combination of ingredients in the bowl is flavorful and balanced. The interior shows a bit of age but is cozy and atmospheric, with a bar that’s well-stocked and a kitchen in clear view. Service is quick and attentive, from order to water refills. Walk-in seating is usually manageable, which makes it an even easier recommendation.
Euna Bae
Service was great, and the ambience was good! But the food, to me, was a bit too much ‘Americanized’. Seafood pancake was deep fried- personally not a fan of that. It could be more appealing to people who prefer ‘deep fried’ crunchy umami flavor!
How to reach Barn Joo 35
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Why Barn Joo 35 may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Barn Joo 35 with your friends? Because it perfectly blends vibrant atmosphere, flavorful Korean cuisine, and exciting social vibes that make it ideal for a memorable group meetup. Barn Joo 35 is more than just a restaurant; it's a Korean gastropub where friends and family can gather to share plates, drinks, and laughter in a lively setting. The combination of traditional Korean flavors with inventive American touches creates an accessible yet unique menu that sparks conversation and communal dining. Whether you're celebrating an occasion or simply catching up, the energetic ambiance with occasional live music and a DJ adds an extra spark to your gathering. Its prime location near Union Square in New York City makes it easy to reach, and the cozy yet dynamic layout accommodates groups large or small. Moreover, Barn Joo 35’s menu is intentionally designed for sharing, encouraging interactive dining experiences that help friends connect over great food and drinks. From Korean BBQ to tapas-style small plates and innovative cocktails, it’s a place where every bite and sip brings everyone closer together.
What activities can you enjoy at Barn Joo 35 that make it perfect for a group meetup? The venue offers an array of engaging dining experiences focused on communal enjoyment. At the heart of the Barn Joo 35 experience is the Korean tapas-style menu featuring shareable dishes. Guests can try the Open Roll trio—sushi-inspired rolls with ingredients like uni, beef short rib, and yellowtail, served with special sauces that heighten flavor complexity. These small plates are excellent for tasting a variety of flavors as a group. For those craving more traditional Korean comfort foods with a twist, there are standout items such as silky tofu, tteok (rice cake) with an inventive cheese blend, and bibimbap featuring perfectly charred rice and spicy gochujang. The menu’s farm-to-table approach ensures fresh, seasonal ingredients elevate each dish's taste.
In addition to the food, Barn Joo 35 features a well-stocked bar where you can enjoy Korean soju cocktails, craft beers, and an array of wines, ideal for group toasts. The happy hour draws a crowd with its lively music played by DJs or live bands, fostering a spirited atmosphere that invites mingling and celebration. The layout includes intimate booths and open tables that suit both casual socializing and special occasions, supporting easy conversation and interaction among your group.
Why is Barn Joo 35 ideal for hosting large groups or family gatherings? One of the key strengths of Barn Joo 35 is its versatility in accommodating diverse group sizes. With a spacious interior spread across multiple levels, the restaurant makes it easy to reserve areas for private celebrations or arrange seating for larger parties. The Korean BBQ setup on the second floor allows for interactive grilling experiences where everyone participates in cooking their meal, creating a fun, hands-on activity for groups. For those who prefer a more relaxed setting, the ground floor offers cozy booths and a vibrant bar scene, perfect for casual meetups or night-long celebrations.
Barn Joo 35’s menu is thoughtfully composed to encourage sharing, making it especially suited for groups who enjoy sampling a variety of dishes together—no need for everyone to order the same thing. The meal becomes an event in itself when you discuss favorite flavors, try new combinations, and pass plates around the table. Moreover, the attentive staff is accustomed to handling group dynamics, helping to coordinate orders and ensure smooth service even during busy times. This helps groups fully enjoy the experience without logistical hassles.
What makes Barn Joo 35’s culinary style stand out for group dining? The restaurant perfectly balances traditional Korean flavors with modern, inventive presentations that appeal to a broad audience. Unlike some Korean eateries that focus exclusively on classic dishes, Barn Joo 35 elevates their menu using American culinary techniques and plating style, making the experience accessible and exciting for all palates. Items like bibimbap with charred rice, the unique Tteok + Cheese (a fusion of Korean rice cake with Western cheeses and truffle essence), and the stunning Open Rolls demonstrate this artful balance. This thoughtful fusion encourages exploration and sparks meaningful food conversations within groups.
Further, the small-plate tapas-style approach promotes sharing and spontaneity, allowing groups to mix and match dishes according to preferences. This creates a dynamic dining experience where everyone can taste a wide selection of flavors without committing to full entrees, perfect for sampling and bonding over food. The menu’s seasonal and farm-to-table emphasis also means dishes frequently rotate or adapt, keeping the experience fresh for returning groups.
How does the atmosphere enhance your meetup at Barn Joo 35? The energy of Barn Joo 35 is distinctly upbeat and welcoming, encouraging social interaction and group enjoyment. Located near Union Square, it caters to an urban crowd looking to unwind and celebrate. The combination of live music or DJ sets, upbeat lighting, and a stylish yet comfortable interior design transforms the space into both a dining destination and a lively gathering spot. This ambiance breaks down formalities and sparks joyous moments, whether you're coming straight from work or meeting up for a casual weekend night.
Their happy hour, which runs daily, draws a crowd eager to socialize over signature cocktails and Korean bar snacks, making it an ideal kickoff for dinners or night-long hangouts. Additionally, the restaurant’s layout encourages mingling with a balance of open communal tables and private booths. The second-floor Korean BBQ area adds variety, letting groups engage in shared cooking, which is always a memorable and interactive experience. These carefully crafted elements make Barn Joo 35 an energetic, fun, and comfortable place to rally with friends or family.
What should groups know about the service and accessibility at Barn Joo 35? Barn Joo 35 is well-regarded for its attentive and friendly staff who understand the nuances of hosting group parties. While some reviews have noted occasional service delays during peak hours, the management generally strives to maintain a welcoming atmosphere and assist in coordinating group orders. Reservations are recommended for bigger groups to ensure smooth seating arrangements. The restaurant accepts credit cards, offers takeout, and provides options for dietary restrictions including vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free dishes, accommodating diverse group needs.
The central location near multiple subway lines makes arrival and departure convenient for city dwellers. Additionally, the restaurant is wheelchair accessible, showing consideration for guests with mobility needs. This thoughtful approach increases the suitability of Barn Joo 35 for various groups, including families with children, friends celebrating milestones, or colleagues gathering for after-work socializing.
In summary, Barn Joo 35 excels as a social hub for groups eager to experience Korean cuisine with a modern twist in a spirited environment. Its shared plates, inventive cocktails, lively atmosphere, and accommodating space combine to create an exceptional destination for meetups. Whether savoring bibimbap at the bar or grilling Korean BBQ upstairs, guests find a welcoming place to connect, celebrate, and enjoy exceptional flavors together. If you’re seeking a vibrant, flavorful, and interactive venue in New York City to rally with friends or family, Barn Joo 35 stands out as an excellent choice with a solid 4.4 rating and hundreds of positive reviews testifying to its unique appeal.