Kkondae might be slang for “grumpy old person,” but this Korean barbecue spot is clearly a place for people who aren’t afraid to let loose. There’s a 97% chance you’ll leave with a constellation of oil splatters on your shirt, and the space leans hard into the pocha aesthetic with metal tables, low stools, BTS songs on loop, and a few Jinro frog statuettes staring at you. The pork cuts are miles better than the beef, so the best bet is to order the first combo on the menu, which comes with belly cuts in varying thicknesses—thin strips that get crisp and chewy like bacon, and thicker slices with chunky layers of fat. The staff cooks everything for you on sizzling grills, including the kimchi that you should absolutely wrap each slab of pork in. Save room for the final boss of fried rice that they make with all the leftover porky juices.
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