Haenyeo

Haenyeo is named after the legendary female free divers of Jeju island, who for centuries have harvested shellfish and seaweed, in all kinds of weather. It's a dying trade—dangerous, often miserable conditions have discouraged recent generations from making a career out of it—but the historic fortitude and bravery of these women are revered in Korea.

On the whole, the food here is worth waiting for. The menu ranges from scallion pancakes to bibimbap to barbecue meats that come out on sizzling platters, but you should focus most of your attention on the small plates. The grilled oysters each come in a pool of delicious seaweed butter, and sweet, spicy fried chicken wings. And then there’s the rice cake fundido, served in a spicy sauce topped with jalapenos, chorizo, and melted Oaxaca cheese. This dish is part Korean tteok-bokki and part Mexican queso fundido, and it’s the best thing here.

Address: 239 5th Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11215

Website: https://haenyeobk.com/