TLDR
A vibrant K-Town hub for creative Korean fusion and signature Makgeolli, famed for its late-night atmosphere and addictive bar snacks.
Instagram Posts References
Take 31 is a well-established Korean restaurant in New York City's K-Town, founded in 2011. It specializes in various types of Makgeolli, a creamy, sweet, tangy, and alcoholic rice wine, offering detailed stats for each. The restaurant's menu features innovative Korean dishes that have received rave reviews. Standout items include a yuzu potato salad with strong yuzu flavor and crunchy apples, a crispy corn pancake lauded for its sweetness and addictiveness, and an 'incredible' kombu butter tangsuyuk (fried pork). The injeolmi pork belly is described as 'divine,' with perfectly crispy pork contrasting a chewy rice crepe and a nutty soybean powder finish. The wagyu chapaguri, featuring excellent steak, and the 'amazing' toomba jjamppong, a spicy, creamy soup with sliced pork, mussels, and noodles, complete the highly recommended offerings.
Details
Established in 2011, this lively Koreatown destination specializes in inventive Korean fusion and an impressive selection of Makgeolli rice wines [1]. Known for its bustling, social atmosphere and late-night availability, the restaurant is frequently lauded as a repeat-worthy spot for both casual dining and late-night cravings [2], [3]. While some diners suggest other spots for specific cravings, the menu is widely celebrated for its creative appetizers and hearty, comfort-focused entrees [1], [4].
Food Overview
The kitchen excels at innovative Korean-American fusion, with highlights like the crispy corn pancake, yuzu potato salad, and kombu butter tangsuyuk [1]. Guests frequently recommend the fried chicken and seafood cream udon, while the soups and stews, such as the budijiggae, are highly favored for late-night meals [4], [6].
Customer Sentiment
Feedback is generally positive, with many diners appreciating the lively environment and quality of food, consistently designating it as a reliable, repeat-worthy establishment [2], [3]. While some feel it is merely a good option rather than a standout compared to specific competitors, it maintains a strong reputation for consistent service and accessibility [4], [5].
Caveats
Some visitors find the experience good but not particularly memorable, occasionally preferring other neighborhood spots like Hojokban depending on the desired atmosphere [4].
Reddit Opinions & Reviews
Top Reddit Posts About TAKE 31
Recent Reddit Mentions
From post: Restaurant Vibe Similar To Thursday Kitchen In
"Recommended as a spot in Ktown."
NeutralFrom post: What Are The Best Cheap Vegetarianpescatarian
"Take 31 on 31st street is an authentic Korean spot that serves soups and stews, good for late-night dining."
PositiveFrom post: Favorite Crab Dish In Nyc
"Recommended the Yuzu Crab Meat Salad at Take31."
PositiveFrom post: Favorite Crab Dish In Nyc
"Recommended the Yuzu Crab Meat Salad at Take31."
PositiveFrom post: Hojokban Or Take31 Or Nowon East
"The commenter describes Take31 as a more lively and loud late-night spot with a social group vibe, contrasting it with Hojokban's trendy atmosphere and Nowon's burger focus."
Neutral