KYU NYC has quickly become one of those spots you simply can’t miss when dining in SoHo. Tucked away on Lafayette Street, this Asian-inspired barbecue joint brings Miami heat to New York with a sleek industrial space that somehow manages to feel both trendy and comfortable at the same time.

The wood-fired Korean-inspired menu is the real star here. Their sticky coconut cake is already legendary in foodie circles, but before dessert, you’ve got to experience their renowned roasted cauliflower and beef short ribs that practically melt in your mouth. The Thai fried rice stone pot is another game-changer – arriving sizzling and creating the perfect crispy rice layer that everyone fights over.

What makes KYU truly special is how they’ve mastered the art of sophisticated dining without any pretentiousness. The cocktail program doesn’t mess around either – try the Spicy Shiso Sour if you’re looking for something with a kick that perfectly complements the smoky flavors of the food.

Fair warning though – reservations can be tough to snag, especially for dinner on weekends, so plan ahead. The vibe hits a perfect sweet spot between date night worthy and ideal for catching up with friends. Worth every penny and every minute of the wait.