Sae Jong Kwan closes for nonpayment of taxes -- but may reopen soon

Craving a little bibim naeng myun, a Korean cold buckwheat noodle dish, we headed out to Sae Jong Kwan yesterday, which makes one of the best (and spiciest) versions in the city. But, sadly, we didn't find any noodles...

By Laura Shunk

October 4, 2011

Audio By Carbonatix

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Craving a little bibim naeng myun, a Korean cold buckwheat noodle dish, we headed out to Sae Jong Kwan yesterday, which makes one of the best (and spiciest) versions in the city. But, sadly, we didn't find any noodles.

The restaurant was totally dark, and a little research showed it was seized by the city for nonpayment of taxes just over a month ago.

More encouraging, though, was the sign on the door, which said the auction of the restaurant's stuff had been cancelled because taxes had been paid in full. Sae Jong Kwan, it noted, would be open again soon, though there was no indication of when "soon" might be.

We'll keep you posted.

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Laura Shunk was Westword's restaurant critic from 2010 to 2012; she's also been food editor at the Village Voice and a dining columnist in Beijing. Her toughest assignment had her drinking ten martinis and eating ten Caesar salads over the course of 48 hours. She still drinks martinis, but remains lukewarm on Caesar salads.

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