TLDR
Subterranean clubstaurant vibes meet upscale KBBQ in a landmarked Midtown setting. Perfect for those seeking a high-energy, party-oriented dining experience.
Reddit Sentiment for COTE 550 / BAR CHIMERA(based on 30 Reddit opinions)
Instagram Posts References
Cote 550 is presented as a lavish and elevated take on the original Cote Korean Steakhouse, located in Midtown. The restaurant boasts a sophisticated dining room, particularly recommending the downstairs area for groups. The culinary experience features a wide array of dishes, including a "Butcher's Feast" with prime and American Wagyu, steak omakase for special occasions, and a generous selection of banchan. The menu also includes starters like caviar and uni, grilled scallops, and a fluffy egg soufflé, culminating in soft-serve ice cream for dessert. The overall impression is one of abundance and decadence, with an emphasis on high-quality ingredients and an impressive variety of cuts.
The reviewer had an exceptional dining experience at Cote 550 NYC, a restaurant that has earned a Michelin star. They were particularly impressed with the Butcher's Feast, which featured four different cuts of meat grilled tableside. The Dungeness crab fried rice was prepared live in front of them, adding to the interactive dining experience. Additionally, a Wagyu hot dog cart was available, which the reviewer found to be a delightful holiday treat. The reviewer explicitly states that Cote earns its Michelin star with every visit and that the new location under Bar Chimera has its own unique personality and delivers an outstanding culinary experience.
Willa Moore reviews Cote 550, a KBBQ powerhouse in Midtown, highlighting its clubby atmosphere, lively bar, and the signature Butcher's Feast. Despite a price increase, the restaurant offers a fun, party-centric dining experience.
Cote 550 brings a more mature, upscale iteration of the acclaimed Korean steakhouse to Midtown's 550 Madison project.
Details
Located in a landmarked Midtown building, this subterranean destination offers a high-energy 'clubstaurant' experience complete with a DJ-hosted bar [2]. While the menu showcases refined versions of the brand's signature offerings, such as the expansive Butcher's Feast, it caters to a corporate crowd seeking an upscale, immersive atmosphere [2], [4]. Despite high-quality ingredients, some diners find the experience overpriced and less authentic compared to standard Korean BBQ alternatives [6], [12], [13].
Food Overview
The menu features premium, table-grilled meats, including a signature Butcher's Feast that serves as a central, albeit expensive, centerpiece [2], [4], [11]. While many celebrate the high quality of the meat, banchan, and egg soufflé [14], [21], others argue that the food is not superior to more affordable, authentic KBBQ options elsewhere [6], [18].
Caveats
The location is significantly pricier than the original establishment, a premium some diners feel is not justified by minor menu additions like toro [2], [20]. Additionally, the atmosphere can be loud and club-like, which may not suit those seeking a traditional or quiet dining experience [8], [22].
Reddit Opinions & Reviews
Top Reddit Posts About COTE 550 / BAR CHIMERA
Recent Reddit Mentions
From post: Hard To Get Reservations That Are Now Getable And
"This location is described as being quite easy to book, with walk-in options available at the bar."
PositiveFrom post: Some Highlights From Five Days Of Eating In New
"A fun upscale Korean BBQ experience, though the visitor felt the price increase over other locations wasn't fully justified by the inclusion of toro."
NeutralFrom post: Anyone Been To Cote 550 Cotes Second Location And
"The food quality is high, but the restaurant failed to provide any acknowledgment or treats for an anniversary celebration."
NegativeFrom post: Anyone Been To Cote 550 Cotes Second Location And
"The restaurant is pricier than the original for the same feast, catering to corporate diners, though it benefits from having quieter nearby bars."
NeutralFrom post: Anyone Been To Cote 550 Cotes Second Location And
"The Butcher's Feast is significantly more expensive at this location compared to the Flatiron original, supposedly justified by the addition of a piece of toro."
Negative