Benu

Exceptional cuisine

A native of South Korea who moved to the United States as a young child, chef Lee is a disciple of Thomas Keller, whose kitchens he oversaw for nine years. At Benu, Lee’s technique and precision is apparent in everything from the placement of the water glass on the table to the perfectly lacquered skin of barbecued quail.The meal is like a beautiful ballet, with dishes timed to perfection and waitstaff moving seamlessly through the restaurant in a choreographed dance. The effect is soothing and gives you the chance to relax and revel in the decadence of the dishes.The Benu team keeps tabs on all patrons. If it’s your first time at the restaurant, you’ll be treated to more than 12 courses of Lee’s greatest hits — including mussels stuffed with glass noodles and fine vegetables, and chicken wing filled with abalone — while returning diners will enjoy new items that are just as delightful.Unlike some restaurants that have a see-and-be-seen type of atmosphere, Benu is wonderfully private. With its sophisticated, exclusive and posh vibe, the venue feels more like an intimate dining room in a modern art museum.Lee’s cuisine has a strong Asian influence, and he also focuses on sourcing high-quality ingredients. This is also reflected in his plating — each dish has a unique serving platter (many custom-made by a Korean artisan), from the linen napkin that wraps warm bread to the smooth black circular stone that showcases a ground-acorn quesadilla filled with Iberico ham and black truffle.

AAA: 5 Leading-edge cuisine, ingredients and preparation with extraordinary service and surroundings.