TLDR
High-vibe KBBQ clubstaurant in Midtown featuring tableside grilling, a lively DJ-hosted bar, and a standout Michelin-starred experience.
Reddit Sentiment for COTE 550 / BAR CHIMERA(based on 23 Reddit opinions)
Instagram Posts References
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.
Details
Located in a landmarked Midtown building, this KBBQ powerhouse blends an upscale club-like atmosphere with a high-energy, party-centric dining experience [2]. The subterranean space features a pool and a lively bar scene, serving as a distinct destination for both dinner and drinks [2]. With its Michelin-star pedigree, the venue continues to deliver an immersive culinary show, even as it draws mixed reactions regarding its identity and pricing [2], [3].
Food Overview
The restaurant specializes in upscale Korean barbecue, with the signature Butcher's Feast—featuring four cuts of meat grilled tableside—serving as the central attraction [2], [3]. Customers frequently recommend the banchan, egg soufflé, and the high-quality meat cuts [3], though some note that traditional dishes like galbi are better elsewhere [3].
Caveats
Some diners report issues with service, including long wait times despite reservations and uncomfortable pressure to purchase expensive beverages [3]. Additionally, critics argue the restaurant focuses more on aesthetics than authentic culinary roots, feeling it is overpriced compared to other KBBQ options [3].
Reddit Opinions & Reviews
Top Reddit Posts About COTE 550 / BAR CHIMERA
Recent Reddit Mentions
From post: I Went To Cotes Second Location At 550 Woah Black
"The user considers the Butcher's Feast an excellent value given the included sides and dessert."
PositiveFrom post: I Went To Cotes Second Location At 550 Woah Black
"As a Korean, the user thinks the restaurant is too bougie and focused on aesthetics rather than the food."
NegativeFrom post: I Went To Cotes Second Location At 550 Woah Black
"The user clarifies that while the food is excellent, it is not worth the hype because similar quality Korean BBQ can be found elsewhere for half the price."
NeutralFrom post: I Went To Cotes Second Location At 550 Woah Black
"The user believes the hype for Cote comes from people unfamiliar with standard KBBQ fare. They found the meal solid but not remarkably better than other experiences."
NeutralFrom post: I Went To Cotes Second Location At 550 Woah Black
"Initially impressive, the user found the appeal wore off during a subsequent visit in 2024. They also expressed dislike for the owner, Simon Kim."
NeutralFrom post: I Went To Cotes Second Location At 550 Woah Black
"The user finds Cote to be a weird in-between of a steakhouse and Korean BBQ with an annoying clubby atmosphere, suggesting there are better options for both."
NegativeFrom post: I Went To Cotes Second Location At 550 Woah Black
"The user experienced a 45-minute wait despite having a reservation and reported persistent pressure to purchase wine/champagne."
NegativeFrom post: I Went To Cotes Second Location At 550 Woah Black
"This diner found the second location felt more catered to those unfamiliar with Korean food compared to the original. They appreciated that the original location's staff was more personalized and recognized their background."
NeutralFrom post: I Went To Cotes Second Location At 550 Woah Black
"The user feels Cote is an alright restaurant but nothing special for Korean BBQ. They were disappointed that a non-Korean server explained Korean food to them without checking their familiarity first."
NeutralFrom post: I Went To Cotes Second Location At 550 Woah Black
"The user criticizes the restaurant for cooking with gas instead of charcoal and considers the lighter galbi to be mid."
NegativeFrom post: I Went To Cotes Second Location At 550 Woah Black
"The user refuses to eat at Cote due to their negative experience with one of the restaurant's minority investors, whom they described as a terrible leader."
NegativeFrom post: I Went To Cotes Second Location At 550 Woah Black
"The user walked out of the restaurant due to extremely rude service from the staff upon arrival."
NegativeFrom post: I Went To Cotes Second Location At 550 Woah Black
"The user praises the Banchan, egg soufflé, and the high quality of the meat. They recommend the Butcher's Feast over the omakase."
PositiveFrom post: I Went To Cotes Second Location At 550 Woah Black
"The user considers the restaurant overrated, overpriced, and managed by a person they view negatively."
NegativeFrom post: I Went To Cotes Second Location At 550 Woah Black
"The user expresses strong dislike for Cote, stating it sucks."
NegativeFrom post: I Went To Cotes Second Location At 550 Woah Black
"The user strongly dislikes Cote, labeling it the most overrated restaurant in the world and criticizing the service and drinks as sub-par."
NegativeFrom post: Top Trendyhigh Vibe Restaurant Around
"This restaurant was suggested as a potential option for a client dinner, fitting the criteria of a nice vibe and trendy atmosphere."
NeutralFrom post: Top Trendyhigh Vibe Restaurant Around
"The commenter suggested Cote, specifically mentioning 'Cote 550', as a dining option for clients in the Midtown area."
NeutralFrom post: Where Would You Go Near Lincoln Center For A Late
"Cote 550 is a new establishment with a fun ambiance and good food, also featuring a bar upstairs with late seatings."
Positive