A Hidden Gem Bringing Korean Street Food to Manhattan
If you’ve ever wandered around Midtown Manhattan craving something different from the usual bagel or sandwich, you might have stumbled upon a bright, welcoming spot called Speedy Korea Grill. Located in the heart of Koreatown, this modern eatery offers a fast-casual take on Korean street food with an American twist. Whether you’re new to Korean flavors or already a fan, this place is worth adding to your food bucket list in New York City.
A First Impression That Sticks
From the outside, Speedy Korea Grill looks modern and minimalistic, but once you step inside, you’re greeted by the comforting aroma of sizzling meats, toasted bread, and a hint of sweet pancake batter. The space is clean and energetic, with a layout that makes ordering easy and dining casual. Upstairs, there’s even a self-serve ramen bar that adds a playful DIY element to the experience.
What’s on the Menu?
Speedy Korea Grill specializes in Korean-style comfort food, particularly street snacks that are both nostalgic and easy to eat on the go. Here are some standout items that keep people coming back:
Korean Gold Coin Pancakes
These are small, round pancakes with fillings that range from gooey mozzarella cheese to sweet red bean paste. The outside is golden and crispy, while the inside is melty and satisfying. They’re perfect for a quick snack or a dessert-like treat after your meal. Some popular variations include:
Mozzarella Coin
Nutella Coin
Red Bean Coin
Corn Cheese Coin
They’re great to eat warm, and definitely Instagram-worthy.
Kimbap (Korean Rice Rolls)
Think of it as the Korean version of sushi, but more casual and flavorful. The rice is seasoned just right, and the fillings range from spicy squid to bulgogi beef and classic tuna mayo. It’s an ideal lunch item that feels fresh and filling without being heavy.
Bibimbap Bowls
For those looking for a heartier meal, bibimbap is a solid option. It’s a rice bowl topped with vegetables, a choice of protein (like beef, tofu, or spicy pork), and a fried egg. The real flavor comes when you mix everything together with gochujang (Korean chili paste). It’s colorful, nutritious, and incredibly satisfying.
Egg Toast Sandwiches
This section of the menu deserves its own spotlight. Soft scrambled eggs are sandwiched between thick-cut toast with a sweet-savory sauce and optional fillings like ham, cheese, or avocado. The bread is lightly buttered and toasted until golden. The combination is simple, but the texture and flavor balance make it surprisingly addictive.
Cup Bab and Dosirak Meal Sets
Cup Bab is essentially a rice bowl in a cup, great for grab-and-go. Dosirak sets let you choose multiple small dishes, like spicy chicken, japchae (glass noodles), kimchi fried rice, and more. These sets are designed for variety and are ideal if you want to try a little bit of everything.
Service and Atmosphere
Despite the name “Speedy,” service times can vary, especially during lunch rush or on weekends. That said, the staff is friendly and accommodating. They explain the menu well if you’re unfamiliar with Korean food and will gladly make recommendations if you ask.
The restaurant feels young and upbeat, popular among college students, tourists, and local workers on their lunch break. The second floor adds a nice touch—where you can sit down, enjoy a ramen bowl you make yourself, and take your time. It’s casual enough to visit solo, but also cozy for a small group hangout.
What Customers Are Saying
People rave about the gold coin pancakes and egg toast sandwiches. There’s frequent praise for the creativity of the menu and how well they execute simple, nostalgic flavors with modern presentation. While some mention wait times during busy periods, most agree that the food is worth it. The self-serve ramen bar upstairs is often highlighted as a fun and unique part of the visit.
When to Go and What to Expect
Speedy Korea Grill opens early, making it a great option for a Korean-style breakfast. It stays open through dinner, so you can grab a full meal or just a snack depending on your mood. It gets busiest around noon and early evening, so if you want a quiet experience, try visiting between peak hours.
Prices are reasonable for Midtown Manhattan, especially considering the quality and portion size. Most menu items range from $5 to $15, depending on whether you’re ordering individual items or meal sets.
Bringing Korean Street Food to the Global Stage
Speedy Korea Grill does more than serve food—it brings a slice of Seoul’s vibrant street food scene to New York in a way that feels approachable to first-timers but authentic enough for Korean food lovers. It’s a perfect gateway for anyone curious about Korean flavors but unsure where to start. With comforting dishes, a playful atmosphere, and a menu full of shareable options, it’s the kind of place you’ll want to introduce your friends to.
So next time you’re in Midtown and craving something different, skip the pizza slice or burger and head over to Speedy Korea Grill. Whether you’re in it for the gold coin pancakes, the spicy rice bowls, or the build-your-own ramen, you’re in for something fast, flavorful, and uniquely Korean.