Chef Jungsik Yim Launches Muje, A New Culinary Venture in New York
Chef Jungsik Yim, the acclaimed chef behind the three-Michelin-starred restaurant Jungsik in TriBeCa, has unveiled his latest culinary venture, Muje. This new establishment aims to broaden the scope of Asian cuisine beyond the traditional 'New Korean' fine dining that Yim is known for. Located at 151 W 30th Street, Muje replaces Yim's previous restaurant, Sea, which focused on Southeast Asian dishes and closed earlier this year.
Yim describes Muje as a more accessible dining option compared to Jungsik, which is often fully booked and carries a higher price tag. "I wanted to create a restaurant that’s more approachable, so people can enjoy something as high quality as Jungsik, but with a more affordable cost," he explains. The name Muje, meaning "untitled" or "undefined" in Korean, reflects the restaurant's philosophy of drawing inspiration from various Asian cuisines.
The menu at Muje is designed to showcase Asian food without boundaries, featuring a diverse array of dishes that highlight Yim's culinary journey. With a team that includes chefs from different Asian backgrounds, Muje aims to celebrate the rich tapestry of Asian culinary traditions. Yim's experience with Asian cuisines began early in his career and continues to influence his cooking today.
Dishes at Muje include Kong-guksu, a cold soybean noodle soup served warm with pollock roe and cured egg yolk, and a short rib dish wrapped in four different styles representing various Asian culinary traditions. The tasting menu, starting at $150, offers eight courses, providing a more concise yet equally flavorful experience compared to the extensive offerings at Jungsik.
The beverage program at Muje takes a global approach, featuring wines from renowned European regions while cocktails emphasize Asian ingredients. One standout cocktail is Midnight in Samui, made with pea-infused rum.
The restaurant's interior, designed by Two Point Zero, features a calming earthy palette with natural materials, creating an inviting atmosphere for diners. Yim emphasizes the importance of a simple and minimalistic design to enhance the dining experience.
Ultimately, Yim's goal with Muje is to make delicious food accessible, whether at Jungsik or Muje, focusing on the joy of culinary exploration and enjoyment.
