When asking yourself about something to do near me in New York with a group of friends or family, consider
Dons Bogam
Why Dons Bogam is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Dons Bogam offers a distinctive Korean dining experience nestled in the heart of New York City's Koreatown at 17 E 32nd Street. This restaurant is celebrated for its authentic Korean barbecue combined with a modern wine bar atmosphere, making it an ideal spot to gather with friends and family. Guests can enjoy traditional Korean specialties alongside Dons Bogam’s original BBQ, cooked to perfection on tabletop grills that enhance the interactive and communal dining experience. The ambiance is further elevated by floor-level seating and an open kitchen where diners can watch Master Chef Woo Kim craft exquisite dishes, adding an engaging sensory element to the meal. Beyond its stellar dinner offerings, Dons Bogam serves a lunch menu featuring specialties like bibimbap with both meat and vegetarian options, as well as a variety of banchan or side dishes like kimchi and spicy squid, which are flavorful highlights. The wine bar complements the food with an extensive selection of wines, spirits, sake, and soju, ensuring that beverage preferences are well catered to. With a smoke-free environment due to advanced exhaust systems, the space is comfortable for longer visits and socializing. Open from 11:30 AM until midnight on weekends, and with more limited hours on weekdays, it provides flexible timing for casual meetups or celebratory dinners. Overall, Dons Bogam combines tradition, taste, and a welcoming setting that makes it a great destination to enjoy familiar Korean flavors while socializing in a lively yet refined atmosphere.
Here's what people think of Dons Bogam
As of recent, Dons Bogam holds a 4.4-star rating based on 1524 reviews.
Reviews of Dons Bogam reveal a strong appreciation for the quality and authenticity of the Korean cuisine offered. Many diners highlight the deliciousness of signature dishes such as the galbi bibimbap—a hot rice bowl with tender short ribs—and the various flavorful banchan including kimchi cabbage, spicy squid, and marinated pork belly. Positive compliments often focus on the ambiance created by the interactive grilling experience at the table, the open kitchen showcasing Chef Woo Kim’s skill, and the modern, inviting wine bar setting that adds sophistication to the meal. The attentive yet indulgent service has been noted to enhance the overall dining experience, and the availability of gluten-free options broadens the appeal to a variety of dietary needs. Conversely, some reviews mention service inconsistencies, especially during busy or holiday times, such as delayed drinks or miscommunications about menu options (e.g., egg additions to bibimbap). However, these instances do not appear widespread enough to detract significantly from the restaurant’s reputation. In summary, customer feedback paints Dons Bogam as a high-quality Korean barbecue destination valued for its authentic flavors, unique presentation, and lively atmosphere, while leaving room for occasional service improvement.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Josie_ Bookworm
I somehow don't have a photo of their bibimbap, so I apologize for that. Great bibimbap! The seafood pancake was crispy, it was also well-distributed with everything in every bite. The squid was exceptionally chewy and tasty. The sides actually left a great impression on me, not only were they refilled accordingly but the kimchi (perfection), cucumbers (crunchy), soybean sprouts (I loved it), and especially sweet potato were awesome! Also, the sauce. Loved the sauce. It ain't a Michelin-recommended place for nothing! Worth a visit.
Darrell Rubens
We went for lunch and it was delicious. The service was great ribeye and skirt steak on the barbecue was awesome. The waitress did all the cooking for us at the table. All the sides were delicious as well. It was well worth the price is there as this is more expensive than the other places to the West.
Sam Hahn
Few makeable reservation Friday evening. Korean BBQ so popular. Haven't been here long time. Looks like seating changed a bit. Food reliable. 물비면 good idea alike 짬짜면. Server attentive.
Kongphop Attakowitwitaya
Don’s Bogam is one of my favorite Korean BBQ spots in NYC’s K-Town. The quality of the meat is top-notch — especially the marinated galbi and pork belly, both juicy and flavorful. What makes this place stand out is the built-in charcoal grill, which adds a great smoky depth to the meats. The staff is attentive and helps grill everything to perfection, which is a huge plus if you want a seamless experience. I also loved the variety of banchan (side dishes) that come with the meal — fresh, tasty, and replenished without asking. The space feels a bit more upscale than your typical KBBQ joint, making it perfect for both casual nights out and special occasions. Their wine and soju selection is solid too. If you’re looking for a Korean BBQ experience that balances quality, service, and atmosphere, Don’s Bogam is a must-visit in NYC.
Bk Song
Donsbogam is me and my husband's favorite restaurant. Always satisfying with their service and foods. It's been there about 20 or more years. It's amazing they still serve decent Korean foods in manners.
How to reach Dons Bogam
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Why Dons Bogam may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at this place with your friends?
Gathering with friends at Dons Bogam offers a dynamic and memorable experience that goes beyond just a meal. This Korean BBQ and wine bar in New York City's Koreatown has cultivated a reputation for exceptional food, impeccable service, and an energetic atmosphere that naturally suits group meetups. The centerpiece of the dining experience is the interactive tabletop grilling, where friends can bond over cooking premium cuts of meat right at their table. This social style of dining encourages conversation, collaboration, and shared enjoyment, making it far more engaging than a typical restaurant outing. Moreover, Dons Bogam’s spacious, modern, all-black interior gives it a trendy yet comfortable vibe, ideal for groups seeking both style and intimacy. Whether celebrating a special occasion or simply catching up, the restaurant’s combination of delicious Korean flavors, a diverse wine list, and meticulous service ensures that everyone feels attended to and indulged. This blend of fun, flavor, and atmosphere makes Dons Bogam a natural rallying point for groups looking to make their time together truly special.
What activities and dining experiences does Dons Bogam offer that make it perfect for group meetups?
Dons Bogam specializes in Korean BBQ, an inherently social dining format where guests actively participate in their meals by grilling meat at the table. This interactive cooking where staff often guides the grilling process ensures that even novices can enjoy perfectly prepared dishes without stress. Groups can share platters of marinated ribeye, spicy short ribs, wine-infused pork belly, and succulent chicken—all grilled fresh to taste. Beyond the main courses, the abundance of banchan—small appetizer plates featuring kimchi, salads, and various vegetable dishes—adds a variety of flavors to explore communally. For those who prefer lighter fare or vegetarian options, Dons Bogam also offers bibimbap and other Korean dishes that still deliver authentic tastes and keep everyone at the table satisfied. This wide menu selection means that everyone in a mixed group can find something they enjoy, making the dining experience inclusive and enjoyable for all tastes.
Beyond the food, the restaurant’s long, curated wine list and creative cocktails like lychee-flavored soju enhance the social atmosphere. Sharing a bottle of wine or sipping unique drinks together elevates the gathering, encouraging relaxed conversations and long lingering around the table. The kitchen is open, allowing guests to watch Master Chef Woo Kim and his team prepare dishes with skill and precision, creating an engaging backdrop to a lively dinner. This transparency and performance aspect adds artistry and excitement to the evening, ensuring the group feels part of an exclusive culinary event rather than just diners. The venue’s layout supports large parties without feeling cramped, making it easy to chat and mingle. The friendly, attentive staff further fosters a welcoming environment by handling grilling and timing flawlessly, so guests can focus on the fun without logistical hassle.
How does the setting and ambiance at Dons Bogam contribute to a perfect meetup with friends or family?
The ambiance at Dons Bogam is distinctly modern and stylish, yet it retains the warmth needed for comfortable, sociable gatherings. Its big, all-black interior with thoughtful lighting and sleek furniture creates a contemporary feel that impresses guests from the moment they enter. Decorated with an extensive display of wine bottles, the space exudes sophistication, making it especially fitting for celebrations or meaningful reunions. Despite the restaurant’s high-end vibe, the atmosphere remains inviting and relaxed thanks to the open kitchen and visible grilling stations, which break down formal barriers and invite participation. The advanced venting system ensures a smoke-free environment despite the tabletop grilling, so guests can enjoy their time without discomfort—a big plus for groups spending extended hours together.
Dons Bogam’s location in Midtown Manhattan’s Koreatown is also a practical choice for meetups, being accessible by public transit and close to many city attractions. The restaurant is open late, offering flexibility for casual dinners, late-night suppers, or special events. Large groups benefit from this ambiance by having enough space to converse without shouting yet feeling integrated into the lively dining room’s energy. The friendly staff consistently receives praise for their attentive service, which means groups are well looked after, from comfortable seating arrangements to pacing of dishes. This combination of cutting-edge design, practical comfort, and expert service turns every visit into not just a meal but a shared experience worth repeating.
What unique menu highlights and drinks should groups try to get the best experience?
Groups dining at Dons Bogam should make sure to sample the signature meat offerings that define the Korean BBQ experience here. The marinated kalbi (short ribs) and wine-marinated pork belly are standouts for their rich flavor and tender texture, with the latter offering a unique twist due to its Cabernet Sauvignon marinade. The beef platter—featuring a selection of marinated ribeye, spicy short ribs, and mushrooms—is ideal for sharing, providing a variety of tastes that will satisfy diverse palates. For those looking for a lighter option, the bibimbap dishes come highly recommended, combining healthy vegetables, rice, and flavorful sauces into a harmonious bowl. The crispy scallion pancakes (pajeon) work perfectly as a shared appetizer, crispy and satisfying with dipping sauces that complement the meal.
For drinks, the restaurant boasts a superb wine selection that pairs excellently with the grilled meats, providing depth and refinement to the meal. The soju cocktails, especially the lychee-flavored soju, offer a fun, fruity contrast to the robust barbecue and are a great way to stay in the Korean tradition while enjoying a unique twist. These drinks add an interactive element, as friends can compare tastes and discover new favorites together. With attentive staff helping to pace the drinks alongside the food, the group can enjoy a balanced and memorable night that marries excellent Korean cuisine with sophisticated beverage options.
How convenient and group-friendly is the location and service at Dons Bogam?
Located at 17 East 32nd Street in New York City, Dons Bogam benefits from a prime spot in the bustling Koreatown neighborhood. This central location is easily accessible by subway and walking from major Midtown destinations, making it straightforward for friends or family coming from different parts of the city to convene without hassle. The restaurant’s extended hours, open from late morning through midnight on weekends and until 11 PM on weekdays, provide plenty of scheduling flexibility for group meetups ranging from weekday lunches to late-night gatherings. Reservations are strongly recommended, especially for larger parties, to ensure seating availability at prime times.
Concerning service, Dons Bogam has earned a reputation for professionalism and friendliness, often praised for staff who go the extra mile by cooking the meat tableside and attentively managing the dining flow. This level of care removes stress from the group, allowing everyone to relax and socialize without worrying about ordering techniques or timing. Whether it’s a corporate lunch, family reunion, or a casual hangout, the efficient, knowledgeable service makes every guest feel valued and taken care of, a vital element when hosting group events. The staff’s skill in handling the interactive Korean BBQ experience smoothly is especially important for first-timers and large groups, making Dons Bogam not just a restaurant but a worry-free social destination.
What makes Dons Bogam stand out compared to other Korean BBQ restaurants?
Dons Bogam distinguishes itself through an elegant fusion of traditional Korean flavors and a sophisticated dining environment rarely seen in Korean BBQ spots. Unlike casual or dive-style BBQ joints, Dons Bogam emphasizes top-tier ingredients, meticulous preparation, and an ambient setting that feels upscale without being intimidating. The open kitchen showcasing Master Chef Woo Kim’s expertise adds a theatrical element that elevates the dining experience into something more exclusive and memorable. Additionally, their innovative wine pairings and creative cocktails like fruit-infused soju demonstrate a progressive approach to Korean cuisine, appealing to diners who appreciate culinary exploration alongside familiar comfort food.
The restaurant’s commitment to quality extends to service, where staff are experts not only in cooking but also in hospitality, ensuring the complex Korean BBQ experience is smooth and enjoyable for all guests. The advanced ventilation system that eliminates smoke despite the tabletop grills is a practical feature that enhances comfort, encouraging longer, more relaxed meals. Finally, the positive reviews and consistent high ratings across platforms highlight Dons Bogam’s success in delivering a premier Korean BBQ experience in New York—making it a go-to place for groups seeking the perfect mix of tradition and modern flair. This combination of excellent food, elegant yet social atmosphere, and attentive service makes Dons Bogam a standout destination for friends and families looking to rally around a shared love of Korean cuisine.