courtesy Onggi
All the info on Onggi’s opening in Dupont Circle (2100 P Street, NW):
“A stone’s throw away from Dupont Circle, Onggi restaurant – An Immersive Epicurean Experience into the Heart of Korean Culture – emerges as a sanctuary where time-honored Korean culinary practices meet the modern palate. This innovative concept bridges royal court cuisine and cherished home cooking, celebrating Korea’s rich gastronomic landscape.
At Onggi, the ancient art of fermentation—for which the restaurant is named after traditional Korean earthenware vessels—meets contemporary sensibilities in a space where every element speaks of connection, preservation, and the nurturing spirit of Jeong.
The vision springs from Owner and Culinary Director Tanya Kim and Executive Chef Geewon Kim—united by their Korean roots. Tanya’s journey led her to intensive culinary education in Seoul, absorbing Joseon Dynasty cooking standards and the Hansik movement. Chef Geewon’s dedication to his craft reveals itself in his remarkable journey and attention to detail. Their shared philosophy merges centuries-old Korean techniques transformed into thoughtful modern approaches, elevating Korean cuisine while honoring its authentic roots. Supporting them are the revered “Imo” the aunties—cultural mentors who bring generations of wisdom to each meticulously prepared dish.
The dining experience unfolds like a choreographed dance of flavors, beginning with a ceremonial tea cleanse and squash porridge dusted with flower powder. This prepares diners for the vibrant exploration ahead, where bright house-made kimchi balances complex pepper-accented specialties. Each creation represents a region, custom, or season—presented with reverence yet reimagined through Onggi’s distinctive lens. The creative cocktail program developed by Colin Sugalski, of Korean descent, is a long-term beverage disciple of Eric Bruner-Yang’s establishments, bridges years of history with inventive interpretations reminiscent of Seoul’s coveted bars.
The interior of Onggi reinforces a deeply intentional approach to dining which emerges from the precisely arranged flatware to the serene simplicity of monochromatic beige and eggshell white tones that grace the room. Plush, velvety suede round chairs provide exclusive seating for each guest that compliments the custom made warm, wooden tables. The design creates a restorative environment, with a minimalistic spa-like atmosphere, where natural elements promote wellness and equilibrium. Banquet seating, thoughtfully lined with heated Himalayan salt rock, releases ions that penetrate the aura that surrounds each guest—a natural process that centers diners as they enjoy their meal. Each dish arrives on handcrafted ceramic wares from eight different Korean artisans who work exclusively with indigenous clay. The careful selection of materials — sustainable, natural, and connected to the earth—mirrors the restaurant’s commitment to honoring both ingredients and heritage.
Through this approach, Onggi creates more than a meal—it offers an experience where beauty, ancient techniques, regional diversity, and communal spirit converge. Here, food becomes a medium through which connections deepen between diners and heritage, tradition and innovation, and people sharing exceptional food prepared with intention and care.”