MISU in Paris: a tasty plunge into traditional Korean cuisine

Nestled in a discreet street in the 15th arrondissement, MISU restaurant delights lovers of Korean flavors with delicious dishes presented in the traditional 'bansang' style. Let's take a look at this restaurant, which honors authentic Korean cuisine in a resolutely modern style.

It's no secret. For several years now, K-food has been invading certain districts of the capital with its bibimbaps, mandus and bulgoguis, much to the delight of gourmets who love Korean specialities eaten on the go. But do you know the real Korean cuisine? For the ultimate Seoul experience, head for MISU. Located in the 15th arrondissement of Paris, this restaurant showcases authentic Korean cuisine in a resolutely modern style.

Behind this ultra-gourmet restaurant, opening in summer 2023, is Linda Lee. Described as an expert in Korean cuisine, Linda Lee already heads up six Korean restaurants in the UK, as well as On The Bab in Paris's 9th arrondissement.

For her new baby, Linda Lee has decided to forgo Korean street food in favor of genuine gastronomy straight from South Korea. To discover it, come and push open the doors of MISU. Unveiling a refined yet minimalist setting, between tradition and modernity, the restaurant quickly transports us to Asia with its exposed stone walls and delicate tableware.

The journey continues with a menu that honors the tradition of 'bansangs'. But what exactly is a'bangsang'? It's a table traditionally laid for the king and nobles of the Joseon era. It consists of rice and several small side dishes around a main course.

But before we get to the main course, which is served in the traditional 'bansang' style, it's time for the mouth-watering starters. MISU offers no less than 8 starters in all, with, for carnivores, beef tartare au couteau, served with pear and quail egg yolk, or 'Dak Gangjeong', chicken fritters with a slightly sweet chilli sauce.

Finally, we're tempted by the 'Toppoki royal', a tasty plate of small rice noodles, vegetables, mushrooms and an excellent, slightly sweet soy sauce that's a hit with everyone! Opposite, we fall for the unavoidable and succulent 'Mandu', grilled ravioli - like gyozas - garnished here with shrimps. Thin and greedy, we're asking for more! Note that these raviolis are also available with chicken or pork.

We continue the tasting and the journey with the main course. In keeping with bansang tradition, each dish is served on a beautiful tray, with the main plate in the center, surrounded by several small side dishes (small omelet, grilled tofu, pickled cabbage, green salad...). On one side is the succulent 'Kimchi Bokumbab', featuring rice stir-fried with kimchi (spicy cabbage) and shrimp. On the other, you'll be seduced from the first bite by the famous 'Dak Jjim Bansang', a braised chicken dish with soy sauce. Special mention for this dish, in which the flavors are perfectly balanced and the cooking mastered!

We couldn't resist the call of dessert. And what a mistake it would have been to leave without tasting it. For those with a sweet tooth, MISU offers four desserts on its menu, including the delicious matcha tea crème brûlée and the ultra-indulgent black sesame fritter filled with white anko (a white bean paste).

And to accompany these succulent dishes, you can choose between wine, tea or cocktails, such as the refreshing " Honey Lemon " made with soju (Korea's favorite spirit), lemon, honey and soda.

From starters to desserts and main courses, MISU has succeeded in taking us on a true voyage to the Land of the Morning Calm, with the added bonus of the Korean hospitality for which they are famous!

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This test was conducted as part of a professional invitation. If your experience differs from ours, please mention it in the comments.