Let’s go on a gastronomic journey through the diverse and flavourful world of Korean barbecue in Melbourne. Get to know the hidden gems and popular establishments that boast the title of the “Best Korean BBQ in Melbourne.” From the sizzling sounds of grills to the mouthwatering aromas of marinated meats, get ready to indulge in a dining adventure that captures the essence of Korean cuisine. Whether you’re a seasoned barbecue enthusiast or a newcomer to the world of Korean flavours, our curated list promises an exploration of the finest establishments that elevate Melbourne’s reputation as a hub for exceptional dining experiences.
Table of Contents
What does Korean BBQ consist of?
Korean BBQ is a delectable dining experience that primarily revolves around the grilling of sliced meats, with beef being the most common choice, alongside options like pork and chicken. The meats are typically marinated or seasoned for enhanced flavour before being cooked at the table on a grill. Complementing the grilled meats are a variety of flavorful sauces, such as ssamjang, a combination of soybean paste and chili paste, and gochujang, a spicy chili paste. These sauces add depth and richness to the meats, creating a harmonious blend of textures and tastes that characterize the unique and delightful Korean BBQ dining tradition.
What is Korean BBQ flavour?
The flavour of Korean BBQ is known for its distinct sweetness, achieved through a harmonious blend of key ingredients. Commonly used components include soy sauce, sugar, garlic, sesame, and oil, which contribute to the unique taste that characterizes Korean barbecue. For those seeking a more adventurous palate, some recipes incorporate ingredients like pear and honey, adding an extra layer of sophistication to the overall flavour profile. The combination of these elements results in a delectable and well-balanced taste that defines the rich and savoury experience of Korean BBQ.
What vegetables are used in Korean BBQ?
In Korean BBQ, many vegetables are commonly served alongside grilled meats to enhance the dining experience. Popular choices include lettuce, perilla leaves, sliced garlic, green chili peppers, and ssamjang—a thick and spicy paste. These vegetables play a crucial role in the interactive aspect of Korean BBQ, as diners use them to wrap the grilled meat, creating flavorful and textured bites. The combination of grilled meat and fresh, crisp vegetables adds a delightful contrast of flavours and textures, contributing to the unique and enjoyable nature of Korean BBQ.
THE BEST KOREAN BBQ IN MELBOURNE
Mansae Korean BBQ
Customers rave about one of Melbourne’s best Korean BBQ experiences, citing exceptional meat quality and delectable dishes that earned a perfect 10/10 rating. The service is lauded for being both friendly and efficient, with a quick resolution to any issues. Another customer emphasizes the amazing food, particularly recommending the beef tartare, while highlighting the friendly staff and swift service. The consistently enjoyable atmosphere, advises early arrivals to beat the queues that typically start around 5:30 pm. The customer praises the Premium Set featuring various beef and pork options, along with additional menu items like the wagyu short rib and kimchi pancake. Particularly noteworthy is the generous refill policy for the “ban chan” side dishes, making it an all-around satisfying dining destination.
Location: Shop 9/120 A’Beckett St, Melbourne VIC 3000
SSAM Korean BBQ
Diners at this Korean BBQ spot express overwhelming satisfaction with their experience, noting that all the dishes have successfully fulfilled their longing for authentic Korean cuisine. The staff’s professionalism stands out, ensuring a clean grill for grilling meat on each visit. While the wish for grillable kimchi is expressed, the overall sentiment is extreme satisfaction, with a definite intention to return.
A review of Ssam Korean BBQ in Melbourne goes beyond expectations, praising the self-service BBQ concept as a fantastic way to enjoy a meal with friends and family. The freshness and high quality of the meat, coupled with customizable seasoning options, create a perfect blend of flavours. The cozy and welcoming atmosphere adds to the overall appeal, making it an ideal place for a delightful evening. The recommendation is clear – for fans of Korean BBQ, Ssam is the go-to destination for a memorable culinary experience.
Location: 189 King St, Melbourne VIC 3000
BBQ King Melbourne
Excitement radiates from this enthusiastic review of a popular dining spot. Customers express sheer awe at the bustling atmosphere, attributing the crowded scene to the restaurant’s undeniable excellence. The extensive menu, featuring a diverse selection of meat, seafood, vegetables, ribs, chicken, and a notable sushi spread, is highlighted as a key draw. The communal and social aspect of Korean BBQ is celebrated, emphasizing its role as an excellent way to share a meal with friends and family.
A contrasting perspective emerges from a first-time visitor to BBQ King in Melbourne. Despite the anticipated wait in line, the abundance of food varieties, including meats, hot dishes, and sushi, is deemed highly pleasing, marking it as one of the best buffets experienced. The positive encounter extends to the helpful and friendly staff, earning commendation throughout the dining experience.
Location: 280 King St, Melbourne VIC 3000
G2 Korean BBQ
The small dishes receive particular acclaim for their delicious taste, setting the stage for the standout dish – BBQ beef intestines with rice cake and potatoes, known for its irresistibly crispy texture. A unique twist follows as the oil from the beef intestine is cleverly repurposed to cook a flavorful fried rice, marking a must-try trend in Korean cuisine.
The good reviews extend to the pork offerings, described as amazing by one diner. The server’s helpfulness and assistance in cooking the meat add to the positive experience. Opting for the pork set for two, the unexpected delight of a blueberry salad further adds to the culinary adventure, proving that unconventional pairings can be surprisingly delectable.
Location: 301 Elizabeth St, Melbourne VIC 3000
Melbourne Hwaro Korean BBQ
Boasting a premium selection of meats, the experience goes beyond the ordinary with impeccable service that surpasses expectations. The authenticity of flavours, delightful grilling experience, and vibrant atmosphere contribute to a truly memorable dining adventure. A well-deserved five-star rating reflects the overall excellence, leaving the customer eagerly anticipating a return for another round of delightful experiences.
For those seeking premium quality wagyu beef at a reasonable price, this spot is deemed the perfect destination. The customer expresses admiration for the mesmerizing marble on the beef, emphasizing its irresistible appeal. Indecisiveness on the menu is easily resolved by the super-friendly staff, who offer guidance, especially recommending Set D for those inclined towards fattier and more marble-y meats. The Kimchi pancake also earns a nod for its deliciousness. The reviewer concludes by praising the overall experience, highlighting the exceptional quality at a super reasonable price. The promise to return for more speaks volumes about the restaurant’s value and appeal, especially when compared to alternatives with similar quality but significantly higher bills.
Location: 562 Little Bourke St, Melbourne VIC 3000
Yeonga Korean BBQ Restaurant
A loyal customer expresses years of satisfaction with a Korean BBQ restaurant, reminiscing about the weekly visits with their partner during their time working in the city. As the place gained popularity, the customers appreciated that the acclaim was well-deserved, crediting the impeccable food, service, and atmosphere. The restaurant, earning every star and customer, is declared one of their favourite Korean BBQs in Melbourne.
Another positive review hails a great charcoal Korean BBQ located opposite the Queen Vic Market. The convenience of booking online for a party of 8 sets the stage for a fabulous time. The customer commends the food’s quality and the restaurant’s better value compared to others in the city. The meat set options are highlighted as equally good or even better, complemented by refreshing Korean Cass beers. The diverse offerings, including kimchi side dishes, dipping sauces, and cheesy corn, egg, and rice sticks accompanying the BBQ meat sets, contribute to a thoroughly enjoyable dining experience.
Location: 1 Cobden St, North Melbourne VIC 3051
Guhng The Palace
A delightful evening unfolds at the acclaimed Korean BBQ restaurant in Melbourne, proclaimed as the best ever by a satisfied diner. The welcoming and lovely staff receive a perfect 10 out of 10 for their hospitality. The accompanying pictures showcase the awesome spread of food, adding a visual testament to the fantastic dining experience.
The service emerges as one of the best ever experienced, with extremely attentive staff going above and beyond to assist in food preparation, recommend drinks, and suggest sauces to enhance the culinary adventure. The reviewer concludes by expressing an enthusiastic recommendation for the restaurant, underlining the exceptional service and overall dining experience.
Location: 19 McKillop St, Melbourne VIC 3000
White Tomato
A very satisfied customer paints a picture of a Korean restaurant in Melbourne earning a spot among the top three. The overall food quality is praised for being on point. The Takoyaki and Boneless Chicken receive accolades for their crispy exterior and tender interior, complemented by delicious sauces. The Beef Bulgogi Sizzling with rice stands out for its well-balanced combination of vegetables and a delightful smokey charcoal flavour.
The fascination extends to the generous portions offered at reasonable prices, leaving the classic meat-loving partner thoroughly satisfied. The overall sentiment is overwhelmingly positive, with the customers expressing a strong desire to return for another fantastic experience.
Location: 160-162 Bourke St, Melbourne VIC 3000
ChangGo Korean BBQ
Near Franklin Street, this Korean restaurant stands out as the best, providing a highly satisfying dining experience. The endorsement is clear – a fully recommended choice for those seeking an exceptional Korean culinary adventure.
Described as cozy and an excellent place to hang out with friends or colleagues, this restaurant on Franklin Street earns praise for its great staff and, of course, the delicious food. A specific recommendation is made for the 8-flavor pork belly set, highlighting its appeal as a delightful choice for diners.
Reviewing the authenticity of the Korean BBQ experience, a diner commends the tasty pork set that comes complete with soup and a variety of Korean sides. Additional orders of kimchi pancake and marinated beef brisket add to the flavorful spread. The ample servings of salad and kimchi, along with sufficient lettuce for BBQ meat, contribute to a well-rounded meal. Fast service and attentive staff, who assist with the BBQ, are noted, and the reasonable pricing adds to the positive experience. The reviews paint a vivid picture of a restaurant that excels in authenticity, taste, service, and atmosphere, making it a highly recommended choice for Korean cuisine enthusiasts.
Location: 70 Little La Trobe St, Melbourne VIC 3000
OhGam Korean BBQ Buffet
A customer gave a review that radiates satisfaction with the high quality of offerings at the BBQ buffet restaurant. The diverse selection includes oyster blade, porterhouse beef, various pork cuts, sausages, and more. Cooked options cater to different tastes with items like spicy and non-spicy rice cakes, bulgogi, fried rice, and delicious fried chicken. The overall taste is commended, and the food quality is highlighted as exceptional.
A notable mention is made of the impressive buffet BBQ experience, with the customer expressing repeated visits to the restaurant. The freshness and deliciousness of the food make it a preferred choice even after a long trip. The return to Melbourne marks a special occasion, celebrated by choosing this BBQ buffet.
Location: Shop 1/139 Lonsdale St, Melbourne VIC 3000
The best Korean BBQ in Melbourne stands out as a culinary gem, weaving a tapestry of delightful flavors and experiences.
Whether it’s the sizzling meats, the array of delectable side dishes, or the vibrant atmosphere, this dining destination captures the essence of authentic Korean cuisine. The exceptional quality of the meats, including oyster blade, porterhouse beef, and various pork cuts, combined with an extensive buffet offering, creates a symphony of taste that leaves patrons craving for more.
As many customers revel in the smoky aroma of the grills and indulge in the rich and flavorful offerings, the best Korean BBQ in Melbourne emerges not just as a dining destination but as a memorable experience, etching itself into the hearts and palates of those fortunate enough to partake in its culinary wonders. For enthusiasts of Korean cuisine and BBQ aficionados alike, this establishment stands as a beacon of excellence, inviting all to immerse themselves in the unparalleled joy of a truly remarkable dining adventure.