Korean barbecue, known for its interactive dining experience where diners grill meats at their tables, has become a beloved culinary tradition in the United States. From sizzling cuts of beef and pork to an array of flavorful side dishes, Korean BBQ offers a rich and communal dining experience that has captivated food enthusiasts nationwide. This article explores some of the best Korean BBQ restaurants across the U.S., highlighting their unique offerings and contributions to the culinary landscape.
1. Los Angeles, California
Hae Jang Chon Korean BBQ
Located in the heart of Los Angeles' Koreatown, Hae Jang Chon has been serving authentic Korean barbecue since 2002.The restaurant offers an all-you-can-eat menu featuring over 30 selections, including premium cuts like beef tongue, short rib, and pork belly. Diners can enjoy grilling their choices on tabletop grills, complemented by a variety of traditional side dishes known as banchan.
Quarters Korean BBQ
Quarters Korean BBQ brings a modern twist to traditional Korean barbecue. The restaurant's name reflects its unique approach of offering quarter-pound portions, allowing guests to sample a variety of meats. The menu includes inventive sides and tapas, such as 3 Alarm Wings and Korean Nachos, enhancing the dining experience. Quarters' vibrant atmosphere makes it a popular spot for both locals and visitors. mashed.
Yangmani, a renowned Korean barbecue restaurant in Koreatown, recently relocated to a new venue on Western Avenue.Known for its gopchang (beef small intestines) and daechang (large intestines), Yangmani offers a unique dining experience focusing on these delicacies. The new location features an expanded menu, including dry-aged beef and Korean-style beef sashimi, providing a fresh take on traditional dishes.
2. New York City, New York
COTE Korean Steakhouse
COTE, established by restaurateur Simon Kim, is the world's first Michelin-starred Korean barbecue restaurant.Combining the concept of a Korean barbecue with an American steakhouse, COTE offers a curated selection of prime meats, dry-aged in-house. The restaurant's sleek design and exceptional service have made it a standout in Manhattan's dining scene.
Antoya Modern Korean Barbecue
Formerly known as Samwon Garden BBQ, Antoya has rebranded to offer an innovative Korean barbecue experience in the Big Apple. The menu features classics like thinly-sliced rib eye and kimchi fried rice, alongside specialties such as Woosul (beef tongue) topped with scallions and miso sauce. Antoya's commitment to quality has earned it recognition, including the Michelin Guide's Bib Gourmand honor.
3. San Francisco, California
San Ho Won
San Ho Won, located in San Francisco's Mission District, is a Korean charcoal barbecue restaurant that has quickly gained acclaim. Founded by chef Corey Lee, known for his fine-dining establishment Benu, San Ho Won offers a menu that includes premium cuts of meat grilled over charcoal, providing a distinct smoky flavor. The restaurant's dedication to quality and innovation has earned it a Michelin star.
4. Seattle, Washington
Meet Korean BBQ
Meet Korean BBQ has become a favorite in Seattle for its selection of prime meats and interactive dining experience.Guests can choose from various cuts of beef and pork, served with traditional accompaniments like banchan, egg soufflé, and soybean stew. The option for diners to grill their meats or have the staff assist adds to the personalized experience.
5. Houston, Texas
Hongdae 33 Korean BBQ
Situated in Houston's Asiatown, Hongdae 33 offers an authentic Korean barbecue experience. The restaurant is known for its high-quality meats and extensive banchan selection, providing a comprehensive and satisfying meal. The vibrant atmosphere and attentive service make it a popular destination for both locals and visitors.
6. Portland, Oregon
Han Oak
Han Oak is a modern Korean restaurant that combines traditional flavors with contemporary techniques. The menu includes dishes like spicy rice cake ramen and Korean fried chicken wings, offering a unique take on Korean barbecue.The restaurant's innovative approach has earned it accolades, including being named Restaurant of the Year by The Oregonian in 2017.
7. Miami, Florida
COTE Miami
Expanding from its New York roots, COTE opened a location in Miami's Design District. The restaurant continues its tradition of offering high-quality, dry-aged meats in a stylish setting. COTE Miami has quickly become a culinary hotspot, earning a Michelin star and attracting food enthusiasts seeking a premium Korean barbecue experience.
8. San Antonio, Texas
Dae Gee Korean BBQ
Dae Gee, a Denver-based Korean barbecue chain, opened its first Texas location in San Antonio. Featured on Food Network's "Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives," Dae Gee offers a classic Korean barbecue experience with tabletop grills and a variety of meats, fish, and vegetarian options. The restaurant's approachable menu and interactive dining style have made it a popular addition to the local food scene.
9. Atlanta, Georgia
9292 Korean BBQ
Located in Duluth, just outside Atlanta, 9292 Korean BBQ is renowned for its high-quality meats and extensive banchan offerings.
Korean BBQ has taken the U.S. culinary scene by storm, offering a unique dining experience that blends tradition, flavor, and interaction. From the Michelin-starred elegance of COTE in New York and Miami to the bustling, flavor-packed tables of Hae Jang Chon in Los Angeles, these restaurants showcase the diversity and richness of Korean cuisine. Whether you’re savoring dry-aged beef, indulging in marinated galbi, or experiencing the thrill of tabletop grilling with friends, these establishments promise an unforgettable meal. As Korean BBQ continues to evolve and expand across the country, food lovers have more opportunities than ever to immerse themselves in this delicious, communal tradition. So grab your tongs, fire up the grill, and explore the best Korean BBQ restaurants in the USA—one sizzling bite at a time.
Comments