KIMCHI PAIRING
FLAVORS AND DEPTH AFFORDED BY TIME
For Koreans, kimchi is more than just a dish—it is a connection to home, family, and cultural roots. Each bite carries the essence of tradition, often evoking cherished memories of mothers, hometowns, and shared meals.
In Korea, there are hundreds of varieties of kimchi, with each region and family crafting its own unique recipes and pairings. The process of making and fermenting kimchi is an art that requires patience and care, as its flavor evolves over time. This dynamic nature makes kimchi both versatile and deeply personal—a perfect harmony of tradition and individuality.
AT RAON
We honor the cultural significance of kimchi by celebrating its timelessness and adaptability. Whether enjoyed as a side dish or a centerpiece, our kimchi reflects the heritage and heart of Korean cuisine.
We reimagine kimchi through Chef Lim’s innovative and contemporary lens. While honoring its centuries-old history and cultural identity, Chef Lim showcases four distinct varieties, including the popular baechu (cabbage kimchi) and dongchimi (radish water kimchi), as well as lesser-known types such as bo kimchi (wrapped kimchi) and jang kimchi (soy sauce-based kimchi). These will be thoughtfully paired with each course or served as standalone dishes, highlighting the versatility and cultural significance of this Korean staple.
TUE - THU 5:30 • 8:30
FRI - SAT 5:00 • 8:00
TUE - THU 5:30 • 8:30
FRI - SAT 5:00 • 8:00
207 E 59th St. NY
BAECHU KIMCHI
A timeless dish embodying the vibrant flavors of Korea.
Baechu kimchi is the quintessential type of kimchi—what often comes to mind when you think of this iconic dish. It is a staple on the Korean table and served daily in Korean homes. As baechu kimchi ages, its flavor evolves from light and salty to medium-bodied and refreshing, ultimately developing into a full-bodied, tangy, and deeply complex flavor profile. Baechu kimchi that is aged for 3 months or longer pairs beautifully as an accompaniment to noodle dishes or Korean BBQ, while kimchi aged for over a year becomes a key ingredient in heartier recipes like stews and braised dishes.
AT RAON
Since June 2023, Raon has been crafting and aging baechu kimchi with and without chili powder–monthly. These thoughtfully prepared batches are designed to enhance our fish and poultry courses.
DONGCHIMI
A crisp palate-opener finishing with a refreshing sensation.
Starting your meal with the crisp and fizzy dongchimi broth invigorates the senses and awakens your taste buds. It is often celebrated for its health benefits such as digestive health, which are documented in ancient medical literature like Dongui Bogam. Dongchimi’s refreshing taste makes it the perfect accompaniment to rich Korean dishes that feature pork belly or sweet potatoes, while its broth can be used to enhance cold noodle dishes.
AT RAON
Dongchimi serves as a canvas for Chef Lim's creativity. Our dongchimi is aged for 2 to 3 months and is transformed into various broths, sauces, and versatile side dishes. Each batch is crafted with care to preserve its essence while showcasing its range of culinary applications.
BO KIMCHI
A visual splendor and a display of artistry and artisanship.
With a history spanning over 600 years, bo kimchi originated in Kaesong—once the “New York City” of Korea and a major East Asian trade center. This luxurious dish blends cabbage, seafood, and vegetables, reflecting the opulence of its birthplace. Its presentation resembles the traditional wrapping cloths known as bojagi, adding a cultural and artistic touch to the dish. In modern times, a simplified version of Bo Kimchi is commonly enjoyed with meat dishes, as the richness of the meat complements the oceanic and nutty notes of the kimchi, creating a more complex and balanced flavor experience.
AT RAON
Our New York bo kimchi takes a modern approach, fusing the deep-rooted traditions of its origins with the dynamic spirit of our city. Crafted with seasonal ingredients, each plate and presentation showcases Chef Lim's creativity and artistry.
JANG KIMCHI
A harmonious arrangement of colors and aromas.
Jang kimchi offers a unique culinary experience with sauce-soaked vegetables that evoke the refined flavors of traditional royal cuisine. This kimchi pairs beautifully with various meat dishes, including game meats, creating a harmonious blend of salty, tangy, and subtly sweet flavors.
AT RAON
Our jang kimchi imparts a rich gamchilmat (감칠맛), or "umami" taste, crafted without fish sauce and matured for a week. Its versatile profile makes it an exceptional pairing with a variety of main dishes and meat courses.
