Korean Fine Dining Spot Restaurant Ki Earns Michelin Nod

Restaurant Ki, a ten-seat fine dining spot in Little Tokyo, Los Angeles, has been added to the LA Michelin Guide just two months after opening. Run by Chef Ki Yong Kim, the restaurant has drawn attention for its innovative take on New Korean Cuisine.

The Michelin Guide praised Restaurant Ki for its creative yet balanced approach to blending traditional Korean flavors with global techniques. The menu was recognized for delivering dishes that are thoughtful, seasonal, and refined.

Chef Kim on the Recognition: “It Feels Unreal”

“I still can’t believe it—it’s surreal,” said Chef Kim, reflecting on the news. “Restaurant Ki is such a small place with only ten seats, so I never imagined we’d be noticed so quickly.”

Kim mentioned that although he had worked at Michelin-starred restaurants before and was always aware of potential inspections, this time, he had no idea it was coming.

Signature Dishes Reflect Creativity and Seasonality

Describing his culinary style as New Korean, Kim noted that his dishes often transform familiar flavors into upscale creations. A standout on the menu is his version of kimbap, featuring seaweed crisps instead of traditional sheets, truffle-seasoned rice, cod milt, house-fermented kimchi, and gochujang sauce.

“It’s about taking something familiar and reimagining it in a way that highlights each ingredient’s essence,” he said.

From Sushi Shop to Michelin Kitchens

Born in Korea, Kim immigrated to the U.S. in middle school and originally studied communications, aiming to become a television producer. A part-time job at a sushi restaurant changed his path.

He later trained at Matsuhisa in Aspen and interned at the acclaimed three-star Michelin restaurant Benu in San Francisco. His resume includes stints at high-profile restaurants in Japan, Hong Kong, and New York, including Jungsik, another Michelin 3-star Korean fine dining spot. He moved to LA during the pandemic and opened Restaurant Ki in early 2024 after working at the Michelin-starred Meteora.

The Rise of Korean Fine Dining

Chef Kim believes now is the best time for Korean chefs. “Ten years ago, most people outside of Koreatowns had little exposure to Korean food,” he said. “Now, even high-end Korean cuisine is getting serious attention. It’s a really positive change.”

Aiming to Redefine Korean Cuisine

Looking ahead, Kim hopes to expand people’s perceptions of Korean food. “In LA, there aren’t many places offering upscale Korean dining,” he said. “Some still think Korean food is only for pairing with soju. But I want to show it can pair beautifully with fine wine or champagne. I hope to continue challenging those stereotypes.”

Reservations and Location

Restaurant Ki is located on South San Pedro Street in Little Tokyo and operates from Wednesday to Sunday, offering a single seating at 6:30 p.m. The ten-seat counter serves a $285 omakase menu, and reservations—released monthly—are typically secured quickly due to limited availability.

Bookings open at 3 p.m. on the first Wednesday of each month through the restaurant’s official reservation platform. A $150 deposit is required at the time of booking and is refunded after the visit. Due to the nature of the tasting menu, dietary restrictions and allergies cannot be accommodated.

Guests can expect a quiet, focused dining experience that reflects the restaurant’s commitment to seasonality and precision, set within an intimate space in the heart of downtown Los Angeles.

BY WONHEE CHO [cho.wonhee@koreadaily.com]