There is no shortage of good Korean BBQ in Melbourne thanks to a burgeoning Asian foodie influence. With top-quality ingredients and an even better ambience, Melbourne’s KBBQ scene offers delicious food guaranteed to tingle every tastebud.
LessThirty years ago, Mrs Kim wanted to share her Korean heritage and cuisine with her friends and community. Now, her marinated meats and authentic recipes have moved from her backyard barbecue to three of the best Korean BBQ restaurants in Melbourne. All Mrs Kim’s Grills are spaces to share all things good: food, drinks and company. Whether you choose the set menu for two, cluck cluck set or the butcher cut set, these walk-in restaurants will make sure you share the goodness .
The seasonings (filled with 23+ ingredients) at Hwaro Korean BBQ have been matured over several days before landing on your plate. The recipes and traditions stem from much further back than that – around the time of the Korean imperial courts. Founder Eunsook Kim wants to spread the joy of Korean food to everyone in her community, and what better way than with some good old-fashioned barbeque. It’s not just the meat and ingredients at Hwaro that guarantee the utmost quality!
Thought tapas was restricted to Spanish cuisine? Let Guhng The Palace teach you otherwise. Whether you’re with vegans, meat-eaters or fruitarians, everyone will find something to love at this Melbourne KBBQ eatery. Seared beef tataki with avocado puree, deep-fried tofu with homemade sweet soy sauce and pickled baby octopus on cream cheese and pear are just some of the options on the starters menu. Hint: the bigger the group, the more of these scrumptious dishes you’ll be able to sample.
If there’s an opening in your diary for a new regular go-to, we’d say Woodo Korean Barbecue is an ideal candidate. It plays host to some of the most affordable, authentic and tasty Korean BBQ Melbourne has to offer, with all your favourite snacks, and a heap you didn’t know you loved. Top this with a thriving atmosphere and friendly staff and you won’t be able to stop yourself from returning.
The exquisite flavours and generous portions at Yeonga Korean BBQ Restaurant make for not just a dinner, but a feast. Their bibimbap is of particular note, as is the tender meat and mouthwatering spices. Be sure to try the different wine options while indulging at this Victorian icon.
Whether you drop in for a fresh bento box for lunch or stay for a full grill at dinnertime, G2 Korean BBQ will provide a memorable visit. The chic, urban space serves smoky traditional grills in the heart of Melbourne CBD. From oyster blade beef to pork scotch, their large offering of meat cuts are all of the highest quality. Top it off with some kimchi pancakes, deep-fried dumplings and Japchae (pan-fried potato noodle) and ladies and gentlemen, you have yourselves a banquet!
If you can’t choose between all the delicious menu options at Bornga, (we don’t blame you) you can always try a sample set and get a taste of it all. One of the best KBBQ spots in Melbourne, Bornga is an authentic and convenient venue with a whole suite of novel sides that won’t disappoint.
Lotus root chips and deep-fried crab claw will just whet the palate for your sumptuous evening at Towoo BBQ. Bring it to a head with the most enchanting flavours on their red chilli pork bulgogi. And cap it off with some refreshing soju. Book yourself in for a feast at this hidden gem before word gets out.
Come for the well-renowned Japchae and stay for the mouth-watering lamb chops at BBQ-K Doncaster. This hotspot is booked out days or weeks in advance, so be sure to call ahead. The friendly atmosphere and unparalleled feast will not disappoint.
Nestled amongst the trendy, overpriced restaurants of Melbourne’s laneways lies an unassuming but equally ambient spot for good Korean BBQ in Melbourne. ChangGo has incredible food, great service and a buzzing atmosphere. They specialise in a wide variety of pork belly flavours but don’t leave without trying the seafood pancake and a sip of soju.
For the ultimate Korean BBQ feast, head to Mansae. This place offers a laid-back, interactive dining experience that is designed to be fun — the name of the restaurant, Mansae, is even the Korean word for “hip hip hooray”. In terms of the menu, the meat is only the finest quality, with a traditional spread of banchan and small side dishes served alongside. We can’t go past the Mansae Yangnyeom Galbi and Thinly Sliced Ox Tongue if you’re feeling adventurous.