Dined on February 7, 2025
- Overall 4
- Food 4
- Service 5
- Ambience 4
Since the announcement that Chef Edward Lee was opening a new restaurant in DC, I’ve been eagerly waiting to give it a try. However, getting reservations here was extremely challenging but thankfully, I managed to get reservations in the lounge for the 5 course meal for $90 pp.
To describe the actual dining experience, first off the main door can be easy to miss in the dark (it is right next to Blue Bottle). When we entered, we were seated at the bar where we were welcomed by a welcome cocktail/mocktail. The menu was displayed and they brought out each item with appropriate utensils at a very well timed pace. The five course menu included:
1. Hotteok with galbi and eel - interesting flavor/texture combo (4/5)
2. Pine nut, soondubu and apple juk with crab- also interesting flavor, not to my personal liking bc I don’t enjoy seafood but my bf said it was pretty good (4/5)
3. Pork belly, abalone, clam jook- the pork belly was so soft and tender and the dish overall was very tasty (4.5/5)
4. Short rib (vs other option is rockfish which we did not order )- the short rib was cooked well and went well with the grilled pear and pickled beets however nothing mind-blowing (4/5)
5. Jujube cocount icecream with pine nut brittle and yuja- sweet and refreshing but nothing too special (4/5)
In terms of ambience- a bit dim for my liking and the bathroom door is easy to miss. The best part was Chef Lee’s presence- we were not expecting to see him but he was there on a Friday evening, walking around to meet the guests. He was very sweet and down to earth, took photos with each group of guests. Even though we were seated in the bar, Chef Lee said we were welcome to tour the kitchen but when we entered the main dining room where the kitchen was, the employees were confused and thought we were lost so that was a bit awkward.
Final words- I think it is worth the experience (if you’re able to get reservations). Thank you Chef Lee and Shia team for a tasty meal and friendly service:)
SHIA RestaurantResponded 6 days agoSandy, thank you for the thoughtful reflection and sharing of your experience at SHIA! We're so happy to hear you had a wonderful time and enjoyed all the meals and the details of SHIA. As a team striving for excellence in food and service, we take all feedback with care and appreciation. Thanks for sharing what you loved and where you wish it were better. We hope the next time you return, you'll enjoy it even more. We look forward to seeing you soon again and sharing another evening with wonderful food, service, and experience. See you soon!
