Every few weeks over the summer, Chae Modern Korean hosted pop up dinners in their building on 23rd near Penn. On just such an evening, head Chef Taylor Desjarlais and his Justice League of culinary heroes (including Kevin Lee, executive sous chef at Vast) crafted an eight-course meal that was five-courses fancier than anything I’d ever eaten. 

I won’t bother to pretend to be an expert on each of the dishes; I’m not and it would disservice the whole experience. The service was impeccable, the space was simple, yet elegant and all the touches were as they should be. As it was described by Desjarlais and Chae, tonight’s menu was a real adventure and had almost nothing in common with potential menu items. As Chae put it, his team is one of the most talented in the city and he had no choice but to let them go wild every once in a while. 

Take a look at these amazing photos and get ready for Chae. According to Desjarlais’ wife Hunter, Chae should open the first week of October. 

Duck Mandoo

Saba Mitsuki

Chef de Cuisine Desjarlais working magic