When entering a Korean BBQ restaurant, the sizzling sounds of bulgogi being cooked in the middle of a group table can be heard and smelled. Korean cuisine has been rising in popularity since the early 2010s and an embrace for Korean BBQ has led Korean food to the forefront of mainstream cuisine. In celebration of Asian American Heritage Month and in timing with Memorial Day Weekend, we’ve rounded up the top Korean BBQ destinations in the U.S. Trust us, these food spots are worth traveling for.
With over 30 years of experience, Korea Garden Restaurant is one of Houston’s oldest Korean restaurants. Bringing Korean dishes to Houston for nearly three decades, the food is homecooked and delicious. Try a traditional pork belly and one of the many various of Korean Stew Jjigae.
Book your stay at Best Western Plus Downtown Inn & Suites.
At the legendary Hobak Korean BBQ, relish in having your delicious Korean BBQ cooked for you by your server. Part of their name to fame comes about from the beef they use, which is 100% pure premium Black Angus beef, so dive in. The Hobak beef combo should not be missed, which includes choices for brisket, beef belly, Angus B.L. Short Ribs, Hobok Angus Rib Eye, Hobok Skirt Steak, or Aged Short Rib.
Book your stay at The STRAT Hotel, Casino & Skypod, BW Premier Collection.
As a relative newcomer to the Korean BBQ NYC food scene, Gan-Hoo BBQ rises above the rest with its quality ingredients and unique dining experience. They adhere to the concept of “collecting the best of ingredients from all over the world, concentrating on the strengths of the three types of Japanese and Korean barbecue.” With Black Truffle Rice, Wagyu Black Truffle, and Thick Cut Wagyu Beef Tongue on the menu, it’s no wonder it has gained esteem and popularity in such a short period of time.
Book your stay at LaGuardia Plaza Hotel.
The hip, industrial vibes at Quarters Korean BBQ is perfect for the innovative concept that has attracted long lines of eaters out the door. Quarters Korean BBQ gets its name by encouraging its diners to taste dishes by ordering quarter-pound portions of meat or tapas. Great for groups that don’t mind sharing, get ready to chow down on Spicy Back Rib Fondue, LA Galbi Tacos, and 3 Alarm Wings.
Book your stay at Best Western Plus Sunset Plaza Hotel.
As a James Beard Award-nominated restaurant, the bar is set high at Joule. At this Korean steakhouse, their kalbi and grilled kimchi dish is so famous it’s known as “That” Short Rib Steak. While not traditional Korean BBQ, we couldn’t help but put Joule on the list as a top Korean restaurant in the U.S.
Book your stay at Hotel Nexus, BW Signature Collection.