While we know the mecca for Korean barbecue restaurants is a little further south, there are definitely showstoppers in the Bay Area — especially within the great 408.
There are a lot of barbecue spots to sift through, so we gathered our top four picks to help you get started on your next Korean culinary adventure — we’ll meat you there.
Best bang for your buck
YakiniQ, 1783 W. San Carlos St.
Come here with an appetite — this is an all-you-can-eat establishment. Enjoy regular meats priced at $21.99/person, and premium meats priced at $24.99/person. The best part? No need to flag down a server — order your selections through an app and have your food quickly delivered to your table.
No frills, all flavor
ToBang, 1052 Kiely Blvd., Santa Clara
Business owner Ji Yeon followed in her mother’s footsteps — who owned a restaurant in Kwangju, South Korea — and opened this casual eatery in 2005. Since then, ToBang has been serving up quality, well-marinated meats that might even have you skipping the sauces. Bonus: Several combo deals come with a free seafood pancake or cheese corn.
A date night-must
Seo Rai, 3044 El Camino Real, Santa Clara
This is the sister restaurant of Chungdam, a fine-dining Korean barbecue establishment that tech execs often roll through. While we also enjoy Chungdam, Seo Rai is a lively, affordable alternative — your date will love the club-like atmosphere. Enjoy premium, Insta-worthy meat platters and a menu of fun margaritas + soju cocktails.
Best meat selection
10 Butchers, 595 El Camino Real, Sunnyvale
Nothing quite beats the quality of the meats here. You can choose from a selection of fine A5 wagyu or prime rib cuts, as well as black pork belly. Sit back and relax, because the staff at this restaurant will cook, cut, and serve you. Finish off your meal with a dessert — on the house.
