Korean barbecue, also known as KBBQ, has become an extremely popular dining option in many parts of the world. The appeal of Korean BBQ lies in its interactive and social nature – patrons cook a variety of meats and vegetables themselves, right at their own tables. The smell of sizzling beef and pork on a grill is simply irresistible. Going out for Korean BBQ is a fantastic group activity and perfect for special occasions. If you’re looking for a Korean BBQ restaurant where you can cook your own food near you, this guide will help you out.
What Exactly is Korean BBQ?
Korean BBQ refers to a variety of grilled meat dishes that are prepared right at your table. Originating in Korea, it has become a phenomenon across the globe for its tasty meats, banchan side dishes, and the interactive grilling experience. The term “Korean barbecue” actually refers to a wide range of grilled meat dishes. The most popular Korean BBQ meats are:
- Galbi – Marinated short ribs, the most popular Korean BBQ dish. Can be beef (galbi-gui) or pork (dwaeji-galbi).
- Bulgogi – Thin slices of ribeye or other tender beef, marinated in a sweet sauce.
- Samgyeopsal – Thick-cut, uncured pork belly. Extremely tender and flavorful.
- Chadol – Thinly sliced beef brisket.
- Dakgalbi – Spicy marinated chicken.
These meats are grilled right at your table, on a built-in grill. You can also grill vegetables, tofu, mushrooms, and more. The banchan side dishes provide balance. A meal is usually wrapped up with rice and a steaming hot bowl of kkultarae (malt sugar syrup strands).
Why Choose Korean BBQ With DIY Grilling?
Here are some of the best reasons to visit a Korean BBQ joint where you can grill your own meats and veggies:
- It’s interactive and social – Grilling your own food is simply fun! It’s much more engaging than having food brought to your table already prepared. You can chat and spend quality time with your companions while grilling.
- Customize your feast – You can grill items to your preference and try out different combinations. Control how thoroughly various items are cooked.
- Appetizing aromas – The smell of meat and veggies grilling is simply sublime. It will make you salivate in anticipation of the feast!
- Healthy aspects – Grilling meat adds great flavor while allowing fat to drip away. You can also grill up ample vegetables. The banchan provide fiber, vitamins, and balance.
- Value for money – Korean BBQ places often provide excellent value. For a fixed price, you can grill up a huge spread of meat and veggies. It’s a time to eat with abandon!
If you want a fun, interactive, and carnivorous eating experience, DIY Korean barbecue is tough to beat!
What To Look For in a Korean BBQ Restaurant
To ensure the best possible experience, here are key factors to evaluate when choosing a Korean BBQ restaurant where you grill the food:
- High-quality meat – This is the star of the show, so it needs to be fresh and well-marinated. Look for thickness and marbling when it comes to beef. For pork, check that it is tender but not tough.
- Included banchan – The banchan small dishes should be ample, freshly made, and provide nice variety. They’re vital companions to the meat.
- Smokeless grill – Grills that minimize smoke provide a more pleasant dining experience where you don’t leave smelling like an old barbecue pit.
- Good ventilation – Again, you don’t want an over-smoky environment, so make sure there is proper ventilation.
- Helpful staff – Look for friendly servers who can explain the menu, assist with grilling if needed, and ensure you have a fantastic time.
- Reasonable prices – Choose restaurants that provide solid value for money based on the quality of ingredients.
- Reservation options – Since KBBQ is best enjoyed in groups, make sure the restaurant accepts reservations for large parties.
Top Tips for Grilling Korean BBQ Yourself
Here are some handy tips to ensure success when grilling DIY Korean BBQ:
- Go easy on the marinades – excessive marinade can make meat flaky. Use just enough for flavor.
- Don’t overcrowd the grill – leave room between pieces so they cook evenly.
- Keep a check on doneness and adjust heat accordingly.
- Slice meat across the grain after cooking for tenderness.
- Give turkey tails and oysters a quick grill to enhance flavor.
- Scrape off charred debris from meat before serving.
- Make lettuce wraps with grilled meat, rice, and ssamjang sauce.
- Control portions – it’s easy to overeat with so much tasty meat! Pace yourself.
- End your meal with light desserts like fruit or red bean ice cream.
Top Korean BBQ Restaurants to Visit Near You
Now let’s look at some excellent Korean barbecue restaurants in various cities where you can grill up your own feast:
New York City
- Kang Ho Dong Baekjeong – Excellent KBBQ spot with multiple locations. Known for top-notch, marbled galbi.
- Cote – Higher-end steakhouse take on Korean BBQ. With Michelin star dining pedigree.
- Miss Korea BBQ – Beloved K-Town favorite with all-you-can-eat BBQ options. Open late.
- Cube Kitchen – Hip spot to grill in style. DJs spin on weekends.
Los Angeles
- Park’s BBQ – Landmark KBBQ destination since 1985. Juicy meats and festive atmosphere.
- Soot Bull Jeep – Casual hole-in-the-wall with amazing combo platters for grill-it-yourself dining.
- Quarters Korean BBQ – Trendy chain offering karaoke rooms while you grill!
- Sun Ha Jang – Strip mall staple open till 3 AM! Best late-night DIY BBQ option.
Chicago
- San Soo Gab San – Long-running local favorite with tabletop grills.
- Chicago Kalbi – Top pick for marinated short ribs in various Chicago locales.
- Ms. Kim’s Son Me Korean BBQ – Cozy mom-and-pop shop with flavorful beef brisket.
- Jusan – Higher-end Korean restaurant with table BBQ and karaoke rooms.
Houston
- Gorae Korean BBQ – Excellent KBBQ paired with soju cocktails.
- Dak and Bop – Consistently ranked among the city’s best Korean BBQ joints.
- Seoul Garden Korean Restaurant – Humble spot open since the 80s, perfecting Korean classics.
- Gen Korean BBQ House – A-Y-C-E option that’s great for big groups.
Final Thoughts
Korean barbecue where you grill the food yourself is a one-of-a-kind dining experience. It’s interactive, social, customizable, and just plain fun. You can find excellent Korean BBQ restaurants in major cities across the US and beyond. Look for spots that offer high-quality meat, smokeless grills, and helpful service. Master a few grilling techniques and you’re sure to have a fantastic time cooking up a Korean feast with friends and family. Fire up those tabletop grills and enjoy the mesmerizing aromas and tastes of DIY Korean BBQ!