Simon Kim Opens Cote 550 in Midtown Manhattan's 550 Madison Avenue

Simon Kim, through his company Gracious Hospitality Management, has opened Cote 550 at 550 Madison Avenue in Midtown Manhattan, a three-restaurant complex that includes the subterranean Cote 550, Bar Chimera on the main floor, and a forthcoming sushi-omakase counter by Michelin-starred chef Masahiro Yoshitake. The original Cote, which opened in Flatiron in 2017, was the first Korean barbecue to earn a Michelin star. The new location features a Butcher's Feast prix fixe, a burger, and dishes like Oyster Dynamite. The space includes a neon work by artist Martin Creed reading "DON'T WORRY." Kim described the project as his "Sistine Chapel" in an interview with Grub Street. The complex occupies the postmodern tower designed by Philip Johnson and is located near Trump Tower, which has closed the block to car traffic. The review notes the clubstaurant vibe, comparing it to Tao, and highlights the extensive wine list including a 1835 Madeira.