Hip new restaurant & bar serves up modern Korean cuisine and soju-based cocktails
January 26th, 2016
Update: August 2018 – Jinjuu has closed for relocation
Modern Korean restaurant and bar Jinjuu opened December 2015 in the centre of Hong Kong’s famous Lan Kwai Fong dining and nightlife precinct. A dining concept inspired by the Korean anju culture of good eating while drinking, first introduced by celebrated Korean-American chef Judy Joo in 2014 at her London Jinjuu restaurant, the Hong Kong offshoot similarly references traditional and contemporary Korean design and cuisine for vibrant dining and drinks experiences in a sophisticated, hip setting. Korean-inflected cocktails designed to be compatible with the bold cuisine flavours are highlighted at the bar, together with an extensive variety of premium soju, and in-house soju infusions. For her Hong Kong restaurant launch, Judy Joo has partnered with the renowned Lan Kwai Fong Entertainments Group to recreate the buzz of the London restaurant in the local dining scene.
Design Occupying an expansive upper ground floor space in the newly rebuilt Californa Tower, Jinjuu features an industrial-chic vibe – elevated with traditional Korean elements. Featuring an open-plan layout, the front section comprises the main bar area and open kitchen, with an impressive full-length black marble bar counter spanning both the cocktail bar and kitchen. Further inside on a slightly raised level, dining tables overlook the bustling street corner through large windows that fold back to open up the space. Traditional Korean elements include stacked up antique-style timber chest drawers that support the marble bar counter, decorative geometric motifs, and a stunning street-art dragon mural.
Cuisine The local menus closely follow London’s, offering selections of signature fusion dishes, an a la carte menu of small and large plate dishes, and substantial Korean sharing platters that encapsulate the Korean anju concept of drinking and eating. Menu highlights that typify the Jinjuu interpretations of the robust flavours of both classic Korean cuisine and contemporary street foods include the signature fusion dish whole Korean Fried Chicken; authentic renditions of Bibimbap Bowls; Glazed USDA Short Ribs – basted with house soy sauce; and the Mandoo Korean dumplings.
Cocktails Soju-forward signature cocktails on the drinks list reinterpret classic cocktails adding Korean ingredients to create well-balanced, bold flavours compatible with the Jinjuu cuisine. Standouts on the list include the Spiced Kimchi Mary; PSY Sour; and White Rice Negroni.
Jinjuu opens daily, serving lunch, dinner and late night anju bites. With an all-day bar service – and resident DJ later in the week – Jinjuu transforms into a vibrant late night destination. The Set Lunch Menu offers value with 2 courses at HK$198, or 3 courses at HK$238. Evening table reservations are recommended.
