“Top 5 Korean BBQ Spots in Seoul for Tourists”

Introduction to the Best Korean BBQ in Seoul

For foreign tourists looking to immerse themselves in Korean cuisine, Korean BBQ is an absolute must-try. Here’s a guide to help you navigate the best Korean BBQ experiences in Seoul.

Choosing the Right Restaurant

Seoul is home to a myriad of Korean BBQ restaurants, each offering unique experiences. Here are some top recommendations:

• DOOKUPSAM Myeongdong: Known for its premium aged meats, including Hanwoo Aged Korean Beef Sirloin ►LINK.
• Maple Tree: Offers high-quality premium meats like Hanwoo Korean marbled beef and Jeju black pork belly ►LINK.
• Dosan Butchers: Famous for its black Jeju pork and frequented by celebrities ►LINK.

Dining Etiquette

• Seating and Ordering: Korean BBQ is a communal meal. Select several types of meat to share, and the server may recommend portions based on your group size. The person closest to the grill usually handles the cooking ►LINK.
• Cooking the Meat: Use tongs to place meat on the grill and scissors to cut it into bite-sized pieces. Flip the meat once for pork and several times for beef to achieve the right doneness ►LINK ►LINK.
• Side Dishes (Banchan): These are complimentary and include kimchi, pickled vegetables, and seasoned greens. Feel free to ask for refills ►LINK ►LINK.

Useful Tips for Foreign Visitors

• Air Vents: Traditional restaurants have air vents over each table to remove fumes while cooking ►LINK.
• Calling the Waiter: Use “Yogiyo (요기요)” to get the waiter’s attention ►LINK.
• Making the Wrap: Place meat, garlic, and other desired items inside a lettuce leaf, dip in your favorite sauce, and eat in one bite ►LINK.

For a detailed guide and more recommendations, check out ►LINK. Enjoy your culinary journey in Seoul

Maple Tree House is renowned for its premium meats, including Hanwoo Korean beef such as Hanu Deungsim (rib-eye steak) and Yangnyeom-galbi Kkotsal (marinated bottom sirloin triangle). They also offer Jeju black pork, known for its unique texture and flavor, similar to those found in Jeju Island's specialty restaurants like Donsadon[►LINK][►LINK].

To fully appreciate the experience, here are some etiquette tips:

• Respect the Grill Master: Allow the staff to manage the grill to ensure perfectly cooked meats[►LINK].
• Use Tongs and Scissors Properly: Handle utensils correctly to avoid overcrowding the grill[►LINK].
• Build the Perfect Bite (Ssam): Wrap meat in leafy vegetables with ssamjang (fermented soybean paste) for an authentic taste[►LINK][►LINK].

Maple Tree House offers a modern setting with traditional Korean dining concepts. The staff is professional and accommodating, especially for foreigners, with English menus and directions. The integrated charcoal grills and efficient ventilation system ensure a clean and smoke-free environment[►LINK][►LINK].

Dosan Butchers and Saemaul Restaurant: Local Favorites

For a authentic Korean dining experience, consider visiting Dosan Butchers in Gangnam, Seoul, and Saemaul Restaurant in Hongdae.

Dosan Butchers

• Located in the heart of Gangnam, Dosan Butchers is renowned for its high-quality, dry and wet-aged meats, particularly its BBQ Jeju pork[►LINK][►LINK].
• This Korean BBQ restaurant is a favorite among celebrities, including BTS members Jungkook, Jin, and Suga, whose signatures are displayed on site[►LINK][►LINK].
• Recommended dishes include the Dosan Special (KRW76,000) and Jeju BBQ Pork Belly with Bone (KRW15,000 per gram). Don't miss the Doenjang-jjigae (KRW8,000) for a hearty break from the meat[►LINK].
• Hours: Mon-Fri 11:30am-2pm, 3:30pm-1am; Sat-Sun 12pm-2pm, 3:30pm-1am. Table reservations available[►LINK][►LINK].

Korean BBQ Side Dishes (Banchan)

• Korean meals are complemented by various side dishes known as banchan. Common banchan include Kongnamul Muchim (Seasoned Soybean Sprouts), Sigeumchi Namul (Seasoned Spinach), and Oi Muchim (Spicy Cucumber Salad)[►LINK][►LINK].
• These side dishes are easy to make and add a rich variety of flavors and textures to your meal.

Saemaul Restaurant

• While there is less specific information available on a 'Saemaul Restaurant' in Hongdae, it is generally advisable to look for restaurants that offer a range of traditional Korean dishes and banchan.
• In Hongdae, a vibrant area known for its arts and culture, you can find numerous restaurants serving authentic Korean cuisine. Be sure to check reviews and menus to find the best fit for your preferences.

Tips for Foreign Visitors

• Reservations: For popular restaurants like Dosan Butchers, it is advisable to make reservations in advance, especially on weekends[►LINK][►LINK].
• Navigating Menus: Many Korean restaurants have menus in Korean, so learning a few key phrases or using a translation app can be helpful.
• Cultural Etiquette: Respect Korean dining customs, such as using chopsticks correctly and not leaving them standing upright in your rice bowl.
• Exploring Neighborhoods: Both Gangnam and Hongdae offer a rich cultural experience beyond dining, with shopping, entertainment, and historical sites to explore.

By visiting these local favorites, you can immerse yourself in the authentic flavors and culture of Korea.

Unique BBQ Experiences: Hanmiok and Yang Good

For a distinctive Korean BBQ experience, consider visiting Hanmiok and Yang Good in Seoul, each offering unique twists on traditional Korean BBQ.

Hanmiok

• Blow Torch BBQ: Unlike traditional Korean BBQ, Hanmiok uses a blow torch to cook meat, vegetables, and eggs at your table. This modern approach creates a memorable dining experience.
• Private Dining: You can choose to eat in a booth or a private room, making it ideal for special occasions.
• Signature Dish: The highlight is the Chadol Gujeolpan, an omelette surrounded by meat and vegetables, which you wrap in pancakesLINK.

Yang Good

• Australian Halal Lamb: Yang Good stands out by featuring premium Australian halal lamb and chicken skewers, grilled at your table. This is a rare find in Korean BBQ, catering to halal dietary needs.
• Variation from Beef: Unlike most Korean BBQs that focus on beef, Yang Good’s lamb is succulent and juicy, offering a refreshing change.
• Halal but Not Certified: While the restaurant serves halal meat, it is not halal-certified. However, there is no risk of cross-contamination with porkLINKLINK.

Tips for Foreign Visitors

• Reservations: For both restaurants, especially Hanmiok and popular spots like Yang Good, consider making reservations to avoid long wait times.
• Side Dishes: Enjoy the complimentary side dishes, which are a staple in Korean BBQ culture.
• Local Insights: Engage with the staff; they can provide valuable recommendations and enhance your dining experience.

These unique BBQ experiences offer a blend of traditional flavors with modern twists, making them must-visit destinations for any BBQ enthusiast in Seoul.

Tips and Etiquette for Enjoying Korean BBQ

When experiencing traditional Korean BBQ, understanding the cultural nuances can enhance your dining experience. Here are some key tips:

Respect the Grill Master

Allow the designated person at the table to manage the grill to ensure perfectly cooked meats►LINK►LINK.

Use Utensils Properly

Use tongs for raw meat and kitchen scissors for cutting cooked meat. Avoid using personal chopsticks for raw meat to maintain hygiene►LINK►LINK.

Build the Perfect Bite (Ssam)

Wrap grilled meat in lettuce leaves with condiments like ssamjang, kimchi, garlic, and green peppers to create a balanced flavor►LINK►LINK.

Pour Drinks with Respect

When sharing drinks like soju or makgeolli, pour for others before serving yourself, using both hands to show politeness►LINK►LINK.

Share and Enjoy Communally

Korean BBQ is a shared experience. Pass plates around, try different items, and ensure everyone can enjoy the variety of dishes►LINK►LINK.

Banchan Etiquette

Banchan (side dishes) are integral. Sample them before your main order, but avoid overloading; they are meant to be paired with your meal►LINK.

General Dining Etiquette

• Let the eldest person start eating first as a sign of respect►LINK►LINK►LINK.
• Use a spoon for rice and soup, and chopsticks for side dishes. Avoid pointing with chopsticks or stabbing them into your rice bowl►LINK►LINK.
• Eat calmly, chew thoroughly, and avoid loud slurping or eating with your mouth open►LINK►LINK.

By following these tips, you can immerse yourself in the rich cultural experience of traditional Korean BBQ. Enjoy your meal.