When asking yourself about something to do near me in New York with a group of friends or family, consider
Jongro BBQ Market | Best All You Can Eat Korean BBQ in NYC
Why Jongro BBQ Market | Best All You Can Eat Korean BBQ in NYC is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Jongro BBQ Market, situated in the heart of New York City's Koreatown, offers an exceptional all-you-can-eat Korean BBQ experience that is perfect for gatherings with friends. Known for its authentic approach and high-quality meats, Jongro BBQ delivers freshness by never using frozen meat; instead, their primal cuts are delivered daily and butchered in-house. The restaurant's signature Beef Platter features an extravagant selection of brisket, skirt steak, ribeye, marinated chuck, and kalbi, accompanied by traditional Korean banchan such as kimchi, jalapeños, clay pot egg, and stew. The lively and charming vintage Korean village-style interior creates an inviting atmosphere ideal for social dining. With dinner priced at about $50 and lunch at approximately $38.95, guests have a strict but reasonable 90-minute dining window with all orders placed within the first hour, ensuring a timely and efficient meal. Jongro BBQ Market also provides accommodating service for different group sizes, offering walk-ins on weekends and reservation options for groups up to 12. Open late into the night every day, it is an accessible spot for both casual meet-ups and special occasions, making it a top choice for Korean BBQ lovers in NYC.
Here's what people think of Jongro BBQ Market | Best All You Can Eat Korean BBQ in NYC
As of recent, Jongro BBQ Market | Best All You Can Eat Korean BBQ in NYC holds a 4.5-star rating based on 274 reviews.
Reviews consistently highlight Jongro BBQ Market’s fresh, flavorful meats and authentic Korean BBQ experience, contributing to its strong 4.5-star rating from over 270 reviews. Positive feedback often praises the wide variety of meats, especially the Beef Platter, as well as the generous, well-prepared side dishes like spicy tofu soup and flavorful kimchi. Many reviewers also appreciate the attentive and efficient service and the vibrant, cozy atmosphere that transports diners to a traditional Korean setting. Conversely, some negative reviews mention the restaurant’s strict dining time limit of 90 minutes, which can feel rushed to some guests, and occasional noise due to the lively environment. A few noted the waiting times during peak hours, particularly since walk-ins are limited on weekends, requiring reservations for larger groups. Overall, the reviews reflect a popular restaurant that delivers outstanding Korean BBQ with quality ingredients and friendly service, making it a must-visit for those seeking an authentic and sociable dining experience in Koreatown, NYC.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Tanisha
We stumbled up on this place deciding what to eat in Korea town. We weren’t disappointed I enjoyed the experience here. The menu is pretty simple but I liked that, sometimes many choices make the menu too complicated. Each individual is allowed to order three things off the menu and continually throughout the night as you prefer and basically cook as you go. We all ordered different items off the menu and had our meal family style. My favorite things were the scallion pancake, the spicy chicken thigh and bulgogi beef. They also provided a complimentary side dish with pork and pickled veg (delicious especially the pickled veg). As for my least favorite things that would be the meats that were not marinated however they provided salt which was needed or the food was very bland. They also had to change the grills very often due to the food sticking to them. Overall the service was great and timely l, everyone was friendly and provided great service
Brian Park
The food here is absolutely delicious! I especially recommend the brisket and the marinated pork ribs — they were outstanding. The prices are on the higher side, but with the generous portions of naengmyeon and side dishes, it feels completely worth it. The cocktails are fairly simple, but they pair really well with the meat, so I’d definitely recommend trying them alongside your meal. What impressed me the most was the service. At other restaurants, servers often interrupt in the middle of your conversation, but here they wait until there’s a natural pause before coming by. It made the whole experience so much more comfortable and enjoyable. If you like grilling meat while enjoying a drink, this is definitely the place to go. Great food, good drinks, clean atmosphere, and attentive service — I’ll definitely be coming back!
MINAH SMITH
Sara was our waitress and she was super sweet and told us about the menu. She was attentive and focused. She helped us out a lot and definitely made the experience a great one for us. We love you Sara!
Restaurant Groupie
Typically I don't go to AYCE Korean bbq spots but this one I would highly recommend! From the popular Jongro BBQ team the all you can eat menu is quite extensive with similar cuts they use at their original location, like usda prime beef and premium Omaha pork. We loved the marinated hanger steak (the perfect substitute for kalbi!), the premium pork belly, the chewy marbled pork jowl and even the marinated shrimp was quite good! The sides / apps were also great - mool NaengMyeon cold noodles with caramelized pork jowl was the perfect way to end the meal.
perle75nyc
I’ve never been disappointed with Jongno BBQ or Jongno Gopchang, so I’d been looking forward to the opening of Jongno Market for a long time—but today, I was extremely disappointed. It’s run by the same owner, but how can it be this different, even if it’s an all-you-can-eat BBQ place? The meat quality was terrible, the sliced pork belly wasn’t fresh so it smells bad. All the side dishes were generally too sweet. Even the kimchi jjigae was too sweet and kimchi also. Naengmyeon took an unusually long time. The server said the order hadn’t gone through. Then he came back and said it was taking longer because they ran out of broth and making new. Now???? But when the naengmyeon finally came out, it felt like they had prepared the noodles way earlier and only made the broth later — the noodles were hard and clumped together like a rock. On top of that, while they made the naengmyeon noodles fresh, the broth tasted like beef dashida (instant broth powder) with a massive amount of sugar dumped in. The spicy rice cake, tteokbokki was also sweet, but at least it was tasty.
How to reach Jongro BBQ Market | Best All You Can Eat Korean BBQ in NYC
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Why Jongro BBQ Market | Best All You Can Eat Korean BBQ in NYC may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Jongro BBQ Market with your friends?
When you gather your friends for a memorable outing, Jongro BBQ Market in New York City stands out as an exceptional choice. This all-you-can-eat Korean BBQ restaurant offers a vibrant and convivial atmosphere ideal for group meetups. Its midtown location allows easy access for locals and visitors alike, setting the stage for a night filled with great food, fun, and shared experiences. Beyond just enjoying high-quality Korean BBQ, the social nature of grilling your food together fosters camaraderie and engagement among friends or family. Jongro BBQ Market’s meticulous attention to quality and variety ensures every guest finds something to excite their palate, from premium beef cuts to delicious sides. The staff’s attentive service adds to the comfort of the experience, making the outing seamless and enjoyable rather than stressful. The mix of flavors, the communal grilling tradition, and the lively ambiance create a unique environment that naturally encourages conversation, laughter, and lasting memories. For such reasons, Jongro BBQ Market is not just a place to eat but a destination to rally around and celebrate friendship and togetherness.
What activities does Jongro BBQ Market offer for group meetups?
Jongro BBQ Market is fundamentally designed to enhance social dining experiences by combining interactive cooking with top-tier Korean barbecue delicacies. A key activity is the grilling itself—guests order from an expansive menu and then cook their selected meats on tables equipped with built-in grills. This communal grilling process becomes a focal point for interaction, where friends can chat while managing their own barbecue, crafting each piece to their liking. The all-you-can-eat format encourages sampling various cuts and flavors, allowing groups to share plates and compare favorites as they go. Moreover, the restaurant’s spacious interior accommodates larger groups comfortably, making it perfect for reunions, celebrations, or casual hangouts. Unlike many other dining options, Jongro emphasizes a participatory meal, which naturally promotes engagement and a lively atmosphere. To complement the main meal, the restaurant offers a range of side dishes and specialty drinks, such as the famed lychee cocktail, which add variety and elevate the overall dining experience. For groups looking to combine food with entertainment, nearby additional options like karaoke bars provide an exciting extension to the evening.
Why is Jongro BBQ Market perfect for hosting group meetups or celebrations?
Jongro BBQ Market is ideal for hosting group meetups primarily because of its welcoming space, inclusive dining style, and quality culinary offerings. The physical layout features large tables with grills built in, supporting hands-on dining for groups without feeling cramped. This setup encourages everyone to participate actively in the cooking process, transforming the meal into an interactive event rather than a passive dining experience. The all-you-can-eat option takes away concerns about ordering enough or sharing fairly, which is especially helpful for diverse groups with varying appetites and tastes. Beyond food quantity, Jongro BBQ prioritizes premium meats and authentic Korean flavors, ensuring that quality doesn’t take a backseat to quantity. The staff’s proactive and friendly service heightens comfort, easing logistics such as food replenishment and grill maintenance, so guests can focus on socializing. Additionally, the location in Koreatown places it near other fun venues, fostering a fuller group outing beyond just dinner. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, a reunion, or planning a casual night out, Jongro BBQ Market offers a blend of atmosphere, flavor, and practicality that makes group gatherings flow effortlessly.
What makes the food experience at Jongro BBQ Market unique and enjoyable?
The culinary experience at Jongro BBQ Market stands out due to its commitment to delivering authentic Korean barbecue with a modern and accessible twist. The restaurant features a carefully curated menu spotlighting premium beef cuts like pork belly and flavorful short ribs, catering to both novices and aficionados of Korean BBQ. Unlike traditional dining where dishes come pre-cooked, Jongro invites diners to grill their own meats right at the table, giving them control over cooking levels and times, which enhances engagement and enjoyment. The all-you-can-eat format encourages diners to experiment with different selections and savor a broad range of flavors in one sitting. Complementing the meats are a variety of classic Korean side dishes, though some reviewers note the side dish quantity might be less generous compared to other Korean establishments. Specialty drinks, including popular lychee cocktails, add a refreshing element to balance the rich barbecue flavors. The attentive staff further enriches the experience by handling grilling logistics and refreshing grills between courses, ensuring comfort and efficiency. This combination of quality meats, interactive cooking, and thoughtful service culminates in a highly satisfying dining journey for all guests.
How does the atmosphere and service contribute to the appeal of Jongro BBQ Market?
The atmosphere at Jongro BBQ Market is designed to cultivate a fun and bustling environment where guests feel comfortable lingering and socializing. Located on the second floor of a relatively understated building in Koreatown, the restaurant opens up into a large dining hall that evokes the feeling of a lively communal space. The ambient music selection and overall decor add a contemporary Korean urban vibe, making it attractive for a younger crowd and those looking for a dynamic eating experience. Service is frequently highlighted by patrons as friendly, courteous, and attentive, with staff who not only take orders but also manage the grilling process for diners — a factor that many find greatly enhances ease and enjoyment. The team’s dedication to changing grills between meat courses and quickly responding to requests ensures that guests’ food remains fresh and that the experience flows smoothly. While the price point is on the higher end for Korean barbecue, most reviewers agree that the quality, service, and atmosphere justify the cost for a special night out, particularly for groups seeking a festive and interactive meal.
What practical considerations should groups keep in mind when planning a visit?
Groups planning a visit to Jongro BBQ Market should consider a few practical points to maximize their enjoyment. First, the restaurant is quite popular and tends to get busy, so early reservations are strongly recommended to secure a table, especially for larger parties. Some reviewers have noted that getting through on the phone for reservations can be challenging, so planning ahead and possibly using online booking options (if available) can help avoid frustration. The all-you-can-eat pricing includes time limits — typically 90 minutes — and all ordering must be completed within the first hour, so guests should be mindful of pacing their meal to fully enjoy their selections without feeling rushed. Although the side dishes may be fewer compared to other Korean BBQ spots, the focus on premium meat quality compensates well, so guests are encouraged to explore various meat options to get the best experience. Lastly, because Jongro BBQ Market is located in midtown Koreatown, groups can consider extending their outing nearby with activities like karaoke, making it easy to design an entire evening of entertainment and dining within walking distance.
How does Jongro BBQ Market compare to other all-you-can-eat Korean BBQ options in NYC?
Jongro BBQ Market holds a distinctive place among New York City’s many Korean BBQ establishments, particularly for those seeking an all-you-can-eat experience with a focus on quality. While many Korean BBQ restaurants offer unlimited meat options, Jongro combines this with a consistent emphasis on premium beef and attentive table service, setting it apart from more basic buffet-style spots where quality can be variable. Compared to others in Koreatown, Jongro tends to have a slightly higher price point but offers a more curated and upscale feel, appealing to diners who want more than just quantity but also a superior taste and ambiance. Some other venues might provide a wider variety of side dishes or cheaper rates, but Jongro compensates with its grilled meats’ flavor depth and the restaurant’s festive vibe, perfect for group gatherings. The interactive element, where staff help grill and change grills between courses, enhances comfort and convenience, which can be a real advantage during long meals. Overall, Jongro BBQ Market represents a balanced blend of indulgence and tradition, making it a coveted destination among Korean BBQ fans in NYC looking to enjoy a special shared dining event with friends or family.
What drinks and cocktails are recommended to complement the meal?
To complement the rich and smoky flavors of Korean BBQ at Jongro BBQ Market, guests can enjoy an array of drinks and cocktails designed to refresh and enhance the dining experience. The lychee cocktail is especially popular and often highlighted as a must-try; its sweet, floral notes provide a pleasant contrast to the savory meats. Korean soju, a traditional distilled spirit, is another excellent choice for those wanting to embrace the full Korean BBQ culture. For beer lovers, various Korean and local beers can also help cleanse the palate between bites. Non-alcoholic options like Korean soft drinks or flavored teas may be available for those who prefer something lighter or want a break from alcohol. The selection is curated to complement the intense flavors of grilled meats and is part of what makes Jongro BBQ Market not just a meal but a full social event, encouraging relaxed enjoyment and celebration among groups.
What makes Jongro BBQ Market a memorable experience that guests recommend?
Guests recommend Jongro BBQ Market not only for its delicious food but also for the overall memorable experience it provides. The combination of well-prepared premium meats, the communal grilling element, and the upbeat ambiance makes dining here feel like more than just eating — it’s a shared event meant to bring people closer. The attentive service that assists with grilling and grill maintenance removes potential hassle and lets guests focus fully on the social aspect of their visit. Many patrons appreciate how the restaurant blends tradition with a lively modern vibe, making it appealing to diverse groups, including families, friends, and coworkers. Even though the pricing is on the higher side, the quality and quantity delivered, along with the friendly atmosphere, justify it for many. The location’s proximity to nightlife and entertainment options in Koreatown also allows guests to extend their gathering beyond dinner, adding to the destination’s appeal as a full evening hotspot.
In short, Jongro BBQ Market is more than just a restaurant — it’s a destination that expertly combines food, culture, and social connection, making it an outstanding choice for hosting an unforgettable meetup or celebration with friends and family in New York City.