A compelling blend of traditional Korean flavors and modern gastronomic innovation has arrived in Hong Kong’s Soho district with the official opening of O’rm. Located in Sheung Wan, this intimate new restaurant, co-founded by Chef-Owner Junwoo Choi, Beverage Director Ted Ko, and Marketing and Curatorial Director Stella Yim, offers patrons a curated, regional approach to Korean dining, emphasizing communal experiences, elevated comfort food, and expertly matched Korean spirits. The venue draws its unique aesthetic and culinary inspiration from the volcanic peaks, orms, of Jeju Island, reflecting both Chef Choi’s heritage and a creative ambition to “come up” within Hong Kong’s vibrant dining scene.
The founding trio brings a wealth of specialized expertise to O’rm. They previously honed their crafts at respected establishments, including the Korean tavern OBP, traditional liquor distributor Kave, and The Stroll Gallery, respectively. This collective background is evident in the restaurant’s seamless integration of authentic cuisine, specialized beverages, and refined interior design. The physical space itself, limited to an intimate 20 to 23 seats, features expertly curated Korean artwork provided by The Stroll Gallery, lending a warm, cozy charm ideal for both friendly gatherings and private dining at the chef’s table.
Elevated Korean Cuisine and Communal Spirit
O’rm champions the communal nature of Korean dining through a distinctive sharing menu that transforms familiar staples into premium offerings. Chef Choi’s creativity shines in signature dishes designed to both pay homage to regional cuisine and introduce novel flavor profiles.
A standout dish is the elevated take on yuk hoe, or raw beef, featuring premium Wagyu beef and caviar served in delicate, crispy seaweed cups, offering a textural and flavor contrast. Honoring Jeju Island’s unique resources, a refreshing kumquat salad highlights the island’s iconic citrus fruit. Even beloved comfort foods receive an upgrade; the mini crab kimbap uses high-quality Alaskan crab, while menu staples like jjajang tteokbokki and bibim buckwheat noodles are available alongside tableside-carved LA-cut chargrilled short ribs, reminiscent of the Korean barbecue experience.
Beverages: Pairing Tradition with Trend
Complementing the diverse menu is a carefully selected beverage program curated by Ted Ko, focusing on showcasing the breadth of Korean spirits and beyond. Diners can select from a wide range of options, from mass-market celebrity brands like Jay Park’s Won Soju to niche natural selections, including boutique natural wines such as Koyberpunk Field Blend Cabernet Sauvignon, ensuring an ideal pairing for every dish.
Visit O’rm
O’rm is located on the ground floor at 8 On Wo Lane, Sheung Wan. It operates from Monday to Saturday, between 6 p.m. and midnight. Menu items are competitively priced starting from HK$88.
The venue primarily operates on a walk-in basis, embracing spontaneity. However, reservations for the exclusive, intimate chef’s table can be secured through an Instagram direct message. For further information and menu details, interested patrons can visit the restaurant’s official website. O’rm offers a sophisticated yet accessible gateway into the exciting progression of regional Korean dining in the city, merging culinary history with contemporary flair.