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Chef Kim Tae-woong: Nonhyeon-dong’s Exclusive One-Table Dining Experience with a 2-Year Waitlist

Imagine a culinary haven where every dish is crafted just for you, in an intimate setting reserved for a single party each day. Welcome to Chef Kim Tae-woong in Nonhyeon-dong, an extraordinary one-table restaurant in Seoul that has captured the hearts of countless food connoisseurs. So popular, in fact, that securing a reservation today means looking at a waiting list that stretches over two years!

I had the privilege of visiting this highly sought-after establishment on October 29, 2020. Even back then, inquiring about a reservation meant hearing “October 2022.” This unique spot continues to draw significant attention from gourmands and wine lovers alike, and for good reason.

The Uniqueness of Chef Kim Tae-woong’s Culinary Vision

Located in the bustling Nonhyeon-dong, Chef Kim Tae-woong operates on a distinct philosophy:

• Exclusive One-Table Experience: It’s truly a private dining affair, with only one group of guests served per day, ensuring unparalleled attention.
• Omakase Style Menu: There’s no fixed menu. Chef Kim Tae-woong personally curates the dishes daily, based on fresh ingredients and his inspiration. This ensures a surprise and delight with every visit.
• Transparent Pricing: The cost per person is a reasonable 80,000 KRW (approximately $60-70 USD), especially considering the exclusivity and quality.
• Open 365 Days: The restaurant operates every day of the year, a testament to the chef’s dedication.
• Unique Alcohol Policy: Unlike most restaurants, Chef Kim Tae-woong does not sell alcohol. Surprisingly, there’s no corkage fee either! Guests are encouraged to bring their own wines, and the restaurant thoughtfully provides wine glasses. This makes it a perfect venue for wine gatherings.

The interior is cozy and intimate, designed to allow the chef to move efficiently in his kitchen while providing a comfortable dining space for his guests. It feels thoughtfully arranged, making the most of a small footprint. The general rating, while not formally assigned, leans towards Highly Recommended for its unique experience and hospitality.

A Culinary Journey: Dishes Explored

My visit unfolded as a delightful progression of flavors:

Appetizers & Starters

• Scallop Dish: A stunning combination of sweet scallops, creamy sea urchin roe, and savory salmon roe atop crispy seaweed. The flavors harmonized beautifully, though a crispier seaweed would have elevated it further.
• Bruschetta: A perfectly toasted baguette spread with a creamy mix of cream cheese, black olives, capers, and garlic, topped with red pepper and arugula. The crunch of the bread paired with the rich, savory spread was exceptional.
• Botargo Angel Hair Pasta: Often seen on the chef’s Instagram, this cold pasta featured delicate cappellini, luxurious bottarga (mullet roe), and caviar. Lightly seasoned with a hint of Cheongyang chili oil, it offered a subtle kick and a deeply satisfying umami, highly recommended with a glass of crisp white wine.

Seafood Delights

• Steamed Scallops: Timed perfectly for the season (October/November), these scallops were steamed to juicy perfection, infused with butter and fragrant Italian parsley. The rich broth was so delicious, I wished for pasta to soak it all up!
• Steamed Mussels: A tomato-based dish with a lighter broth, the mussels were tender and moist. Abundant garlic and chili gave it a refreshing, subtly spicy aroma.

The Hearty Mains

• Salad: A simple yet elegant salad featuring boiled eggs, crispy oven-baked prosciutto, and a refreshing dressing with aioli and a zesty lemon-based sauce.
• Steak: The main event featured a generously portioned US Prime short rib (Salchisal), roasted alongside garlic and king oyster mushrooms. The steak was juicy, with good marbling, perfect for sharing.
• Suyuk Sookbap (Pot Rice with Boiled Pork): A comforting pot of rice topped with homemade suyuk, with extra portions served on the side. The suyuk was tender, richly flavored with soy sauce, and free of any gamey smell. The addition of chives in the rice and a hint of perilla oil made it incredibly fragrant and satisfying.

Sweet Endings & Unexpected Treats

To cap off the meal, a magnificent, generously sized Tiramisu was served. And for those with extra room, the chef even prepares a comforting bowl of Ramen, garnished with fresh chives – a perfect, soulful ending after some wine!

More Than Just Food: The Chef’s Hospitality

What truly sets Chef Kim Tae-woong apart is the genuine warmth and generosity of the chef himself. The dishes aren’t overtly sophisticated or conceptual like in some high-end restaurants. Instead, they are comfortable, delicious, and universally appealing—like a beloved elder brother cooking for his family.

The chef constantly checks in, ensuring guests are comfortable and well-fed, offering more food if desired. This personal touch, combined with the intimate setting, creates an unforgettable dining experience that goes beyond mere sustenance. It’s a place filled with “human warmth,” as I described it on Instagram.

Conclusion

Chef Kim Tae-woong offers a truly unique and heartwarming dining experience in Nonhyeon-dong. While the food may not be about avant-garde techniques, it’s about high-quality ingredients, delicious flavors, and a comforting atmosphere. It’s an ideal spot to create cherished memories with loved ones. Just remember: patience is a virtue, as you’ll need to join that impressive two-year waiting list!