When asking yourself about something to do near me in San Diego with a group of friends or family, consider
Manna BBQ
Why Manna BBQ is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Manna BBQ in Peoria, Arizona, is a popular Korean BBQ restaurant known for its satisfying food and welcoming atmosphere, making it a great place to meet up with friends. The restaurant offers a variety of BBQ meats, including sweet pork and Hawaiian chicken, which have been praised for their flavor and quality. The price point is reasonable, making Manna BBQ an accessible option for casual dining. Although the atmosphere resembles that of a large chain restaurant, it maintains a comfortable setting suitable for groups and families. The friendly and patient service enhances the dining experience, encouraging guests to relax and enjoy their meal together. The restaurant’s buffet options and flavorful banchan (side dishes) add to its appeal, providing guests with a diverse and interactive meal. Manna BBQ’s blend of tasty dishes, affordability, and a casual but inviting environment make it an excellent choice for social gatherings and casual meals with friends.
Here's what people think of Manna BBQ
As of recent, Manna BBQ holds a 4.3-star rating based on 869 reviews.
Reviews of Manna BBQ reflect a generally positive view of the restaurant, with many customers appreciating the good flavor of the food and the friendly service offered. Positive reviews highlight the reasonably priced menu, the delicious BBQ meats such as sweet pork and Hawaiian chicken, and the attentive service staff who often receive praise for their patience and helpfulness. The buffet options and variety of meats are also appreciated, offering customers good value and ample choice. However, some negative reviews mention inconsistencies such as thick meat cuts that require manual slicing, which some customers found inconvenient, and service lapses like orders being forgotten despite patient staff. Additionally, some patrons were disappointed by the quality of certain dishes, such as overly fatty chicken or brisket that did not match expectations. The atmosphere has been described as somewhat generic, similar to larger chain restaurants, which may not appeal to all. Overall, the reviews suggest that while Manna BBQ delivers good food and a friendly atmosphere at a fair price, there are occasional service and quality issues, but these do not overshadow the positive experience that many diners enjoy.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Lauren Dang
Good! 🥩 The menu here is crazy wide and their options seem endless. I usually just eat the basics like bulgogi, brisket, and pork belly so I'm glad they offered different variations of each. They have a very efficient ordering system where you order through the tablet at your table and your meat would arrive within 3 minutes. *Pork Belly: 8/10 - not too fatty * Bulgogi: 9/10 - tasty and glad that they offered it on their basic menu * Brisket: 9/10 - better quality than the other locations that I've been to The service was good and they were consistently changing our grill without us having to ask. The only thing I didn't like was that they don't offer refills on soda and I couldn't ask for water refills through the tablet. So when I wanted more water, I had to get the attention of the server. Nevertheless, the meat quality was there and we enjoyed our meal! 😋
Craig Wear
Very good KBBQ place in San Diego. You know we had to try out one while we were here. Very good food. Had our favorite Steamed Egg. $30-35 per person for All-you-can-eat is a very good deal. Loads of options on either menu choice. We had the LA YangNyum Galbi, very yummy. The Hawaiian Pork Belly is huge and very tasty. It takes a while to cook it, but it's very yummy once you get a but of a char on it. This place is definitely worth checking out. You won't regret it.
Albert Babisha
The rib eye was the star of the show. Beef belly was good but not the best I have had. Same with the octopus. The meat is previously frozen and the texture is not perfect. I would like if they had minced garlic available not just the cloves.
Jenny H
We went straight for the beef tongues! The beef tongues are one the best we have had in buffet restaurants. Too bad they stopped us after 4 rounds of ordering, which they then told us we are only suppose to get 3 rounds only. It was never specified anywhere on the menu about the limited orders. Was too focused on eating, didn't take more pics. The meat qualities are above and beyond. Wish we could have had more beef tongues though.
Top Evaluations
Freddy is our server, very nice. Main review The food is very good and decent price for Sunday dinner. Review More later
How to reach Manna BBQ
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Why Manna BBQ may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Manna BBQ with your friends?
Gathering your friends for a meal at Manna BBQ is an excellent choice if you’re looking for a social, flavorful, and interactive dining experience. Manna BBQ offers a vibrant Korean barbecue atmosphere where everyone gets involved, cooking their own meats and sides right at the table. This creates an engaging environment that naturally fosters conversation and teamwork, making it perfect for bonding with friends or family. The restaurant’s lively ambiance, combined with generous portions of authentic Korean dishes like brisket, bulgogi, and corn cheese, ensures everyone leaves both satisfied and happy. Additionally, the convenient parking and friendly, attentive service eliminate logistical hassles, allowing you to focus entirely on enjoying your time together. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply catching up, Manna BBQ’s blend of great food, communal cooking, and welcoming vibe offers a memorable meetup spot that everyone will appreciate.
What activities can a group enjoy at Manna BBQ?
Manna BBQ elevates a typical dining outing by transforming it into an interactive experience. The main activity is the Korean barbecue itself, where each person participates in grilling fresh cuts of meat—such as brisket, bulgogi, and pork—on the built-in tabletop grills. This hands-on cooking is both entertaining and a great icebreaker for groups, encouraging collaboration and casual conversation. Aside from grilling, the group can indulge in a variety of flavorful Korean sides like kimchi jjigae, steam egg bomb, and tofu bomb, which provide different tastes and textures to the meal. For corn lovers, the restaurant’s signature corn cheese served sizzling on a skillet offers a unique and delicious shared dish. The lively atmosphere coupled with well-maintained grills enhances the communal vibe, making it a fun and engaging environment for everyone looking to enjoy Korean cuisine together.
Why is Manna BBQ the perfect place for group meetups?
Manna BBQ is tailored to accommodate groups looking for a dynamic dining venue with several features that make meetups easy and enjoyable. Firstly, the all-you-can-eat format means no one has to worry about ordering just the right amount—everyone can eat their fill without restriction, which suits groups with diverse appetites. The setting encourages sharing and trying new dishes, which enhances the social experience. The spacious seating arrangements with grills at every table ensure that groups can comfortably stay together and take their time cooking and eating while enjoying each other’s company. Furthermore, the staff is known for being friendly, patient, and helpful, facilitating smooth service even during busy times, so groups rarely feel rushed or neglected. The convenient parking availability adds another layer of ease, avoiding stress when multiple vehicles are involved. Overall, Manna BBQ’s combination of tasty food, interactive dining, excellent service, and accessible location makes it an ideal spot for friends and families to gather and create lasting memories.
What should first-time visitors expect at Manna BBQ?
For first-time visitors, Manna BBQ presents an authentic Korean barbecue adventure that stands out especially for people familiar with or curious about Korean cuisine. Newcomers can expect to receive generous portions of fresh meat cuts such as brisket and bulgogi, which are staples appreciated by both Koreans and newcomers alike. The corn cheese appetizer, served already cooked on a skillet, provides an approachable and tasty introduction for those new to Korean flavors. Expect a lively and bustling environment, particularly at peak times, so arriving early or making reservations is a good idea to avoid long waits. Guests generally find the service accommodating, with staff ready to assist with cooking tips or menu explanations, which helps first-timers feel comfortable navigating the grilling process themselves. While the ambiance resembles a lively chain restaurant, the focus on quality ingredients and engaging dining keeps the experience insightful and satisfying for novices.
How does Manna BBQ accommodate families and larger groups?
Manna BBQ is a family-friendly restaurant that thoughtfully caters to larger groups. Its all-you-can-eat model is particularly well-suited for families and friends because it removes the pressure of ordering and appetite guessing, allowing everyone to enjoy as much as they want. While there have been some suggestions for improving pricing discounts for children, the overall value remains strong given the quality and quantity of food. The spacious layout and seating options are designed to handle groups comfortably, providing enough room for everyone to participate in the grilling experience together. Service staff are attentive and often patient with families, assisting with food orders and making sure everyone’s needs are met. The menu’s variety—from meats to diverse Korean side dishes like steamed eggs and tofu—ensures there’s something for all ages and tastes, making the dining experience inclusive and enjoyable. Plus, the convenient parking means families don’t have to struggle with logistics when arriving in multiple vehicles.
What kind of atmosphere and dining experience can groups expect?
Groups dining at Manna BBQ can expect a lively and engaging atmosphere, making it much more than just a meal out. The constant activity of grilling food at the table creates a communal energy that blends well with the buzzing conversations and shared enjoyment. The ambiance, while somewhat reminiscent of larger chain restaurants, is warm and inviting, striking a balance between casual comfort and cultural authenticity. The restaurant takes pride in its well-maintained grills and fresh ingredients, which enhance the overall experience and keep the focus on quality and flavor. This type of interactive dining is ideal for groups looking to slow down and savor their time together rather than rushing through a meal. The friendly and accommodating service team supports a relaxed environment where guests can focus on connection and enjoyment, further elevating the experience for family and friend reunions or casual meetups.
What makes the menu at Manna BBQ stand out for groups?
Manna BBQ’s menu is specially curated to offer variety, quality, and authentic Korean flavors that cater well to groups seeking a shared dining experience. The highlight is the extensive selection of meats, including popular choices like brisket, bulgogi, sweet pork, and Hawaiian chicken, all provided in generous portions suitable for sharing and grilling together. The all-you-can-eat format encourages guests to try a wide range of dishes without limitation, making it easier for groups with different tastes to find something they love. The menu’s side dishes, such as kimchi jjigae (spicy kimchi stew), steam egg bomb, tofu bomb, and particularly the corn cheese served on a skillet, add exciting variety and complement the meats perfectly. These options allow groups to enjoy a balanced meal with savory, spicy, and creamy flavors. Customers appreciate the freshness of the ingredients and the value offered, which together create a robust and satisfying menu ideal for social dining occasions.
How does Manna BBQ’s customer service enhance the group dining experience?
Customer service at Manna BBQ plays an essential role in creating a smooth and enjoyable experience for groups. The staff is frequently described as friendly, patient, and attentive, responding promptly to requests and helping guests navigate the Korean barbecue style of dining, especially for first-timers. Servers are known to be accommodating without making anyone feel like they are asking too much, which is important in maintaining a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere. Despite busy periods, the team works hard to ensure timely food delivery and clean, well-maintained grills, minimizing disruptions to the group’s dining flow. This attentive service contributes significantly to the overall positive experience, allowing guests to focus on socializing and enjoying their food rather than worrying about logistics. Excellent customer service at Manna BBQ sets it apart as not just a restaurant but a place where groups feel genuinely cared for.
Why is Manna BBQ a recommended choice for special occasions and casual meetups?
Whether planning a casual meetup or celebrating a special occasion, Manna BBQ offers an environment where the focus is on connection through great food and interactive fun. The all-you-can-eat Korean barbecue concept inherently encourages relaxed and extended dining, perfect for lingering over conversations and celebrating milestones. The delicious and varied menu options cater to varied tastes, making it easy to satisfy everyone in the group without the hassle of individual orders. The lively atmosphere fuels a sense of excitement and enjoyment that elevates any gathering. Additionally, the positive reviews for generous portions, reasonable pricing, and attentive service support the idea that this restaurant can handle groups with ease and professionalism. For those looking to create memorable moments with friends or family, Manna BBQ stands out as a venue that combines food, community, and celebration seamlessly.