When asking yourself about something to do near me in Chicago with a group of friends or family, consider
San Soo Gab San
Why San Soo Gab San is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
San Soo Gab San is a distinguished Korean BBQ restaurant that has been a pillar of the Chicago dining scene since 1992, located in the Lincoln Square neighborhood. Celebrated for delivering an authentic Korean BBQ experience, it invites guests to cook their own high-quality seasoned meats over charcoal grills at their table, immersing them fully in the communal and interactive style typical of Korean BBQ. Its extensive selection of complimentary banchan—traditional Korean side dishes including kimchi, broccoli muchim, and myeolchi bokkeum—sets it apart, offering over 25 different options to enjoy with every meal. The atmosphere combines a dark, smoky interior conducive to lively gatherings with spacious seating perfect for groups celebrating special occasions or casual get-togethers. This restaurant is also uniquely recognized with a Michelin BIB Gourmand distinction, underscoring its quality and value. San Soo Gab San recently expanded by opening a second location in Park Ridge, Illinois, further extending its reach. With hours accommodating both lunch and late-night dining, it remains an accessible spot for both locals and visitors to savor Korean BBQ traditions in a welcoming setting.
Here's what people think of San Soo Gab San
As of recent, San Soo Gab San holds a 4-star rating based on 1593 reviews.
Reviews of San Soo Gab San consistently emphasize the standout quality of its banchan and the authentic flavors of its grilled meats. Positive feedback frequently highlights the variety and generosity of the side dishes, describing them as some of the best available in Chicago, along with praise for the smoky, flavorful bulgogi and wang kalbi that benefit from charcoal grilling. Customers appreciate the convivial atmosphere ideal for group dining and the restaurant's long-standing presence as a Chicago institution. On the other hand, some negative reviews mention occasional issues such as busy times leading to longer waits and variability in service speed, as well as some diners hoping for more modern or varied menu options beyond the classic BBQ fare. Despite these critiques, the overall consensus is that San Soo Gab San offers an excellent Korean BBQ experience, maintaining a strong reputation for both its food and welcoming ambiance. The restaurant’s combination of quality, tradition, and value continues to earn it a loyal following and notable distinction in the local dining community.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
M L.
Food items are nice, standard. They don’t supply enough lettuce and had to request them again and again which was not great. The waitress didn’t write the item down and blamed us for “didn’t ordering” the item although we did.
Isaac
The food is okay, but I really want to complain about the service. If you’re looking for a comfortable place to eat, I’d recommend avoiding this restaurant. The customer service here is honestly pretty bad. We understand that sometimes the kitchen can get busy, but when we were there, there were only five tables occupied. Still, we waited at least 40 minutes just to get a pancake. (We have a total of 9 people in our group) We also asked for small side dishes, but the staff told us they only come with soup, which was frustrating. The most upsetting part was the staff’s attitude — it felt like we owed them something. When the soup finally came, one of the staff asked us to go get it ourselves and even said, “It’s not hot.” That’s just ridiculous. We’re the customers — we’re not asking for much, just basic politeness and decent service. I’m really disappointed with how we were treated.
Patrick Wang
The most outstanding and authentic Korean BBQ restaurant I’ve ever visited so far, and it’s definitely the best choice in Chicago without any question. I ordered marinated sliced beef (bulgogi) and sliced pork belly bacon (sam gyeop sai), and they were both beyond my expectation. Most importantly, they serve more than 20 kinds of free sides for each table no matter how many people you bring with (actually I got 26 kinds of sides). Overall, I did appreciate not just their quality food but also the restaurant ambiance, even though this place is a bit pricy, but it’s still worthy of a visit.
Helen Low
Excellent food! Fresh ingredients! Highly recommended their seafood tofu soup with stir fried pork combo, bbq (beef short ribs, beef brisket), seafood pan cakes. Love the small plates! Kimchi, scallions slides… Delicious! I have to unbutton my pants lol 👀 Excellent customer service! Thanks ajuma. Will definitely return! Great atmosphere, it is very clean. Sit comfortably. Downside: no dessert, no smoothies - kids complaints. 🫢 Has free parking lot, easy to get a parking!
Yiran Zhao
I had high hopes for San Soo Gab San based on my first visit, which was a decent experience. Unfortunately, my second visit completely changed my perception, and it will certainly be my last. The biggest issue? The meat. Their Korean BBQ is supposed to be the highlight, yet the cuts we received were so tough and overcooked that they were nearly impossible to chew. No matter how I adjusted the cooking time or technique, the result was always the same—dry, rubbery, and utterly disappointing. What made the experience worse was the attitude of the staff. Instead of acknowledging the possibility that the meat itself might be the problem, they continuously blamed my grilling skills, as if I was the reason for their poor-quality cuts. A good restaurant should take responsibility for its food, not deflect blame onto the customers. This dismissive and condescending service left a particularly bad impression. While my first visit was passable, the drastic decline in food quality and service on my second visit sealed my decision never to return. There are far better Korean BBQ places in the area that serve tender, flavorful meat and treat their customers with respect. I’d strongly recommend looking elsewhere if you want a satisfying dining experience.
How to reach San Soo Gab San
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Why San Soo Gab San may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at San Soo Gab San with your friends?
Gathering your friends at San Soo Gab San in Chicago offers an exceptional experience that combines delicious Korean barbecue with a vibrant, welcoming atmosphere ideal for socializing. With a solid 4.0-star rating from over 1,500 reviews, this restaurant has stood the test of time, having served the community for over 30 years. It's not just the food here that makes it special, but the chance to share interactive dining — grilling your own meats together — that transforms a meal into a memorable event for groups. San Soo Gab San is a perfect place to rally because it encourages communal eating, which naturally sparks conversation and laughter. Its extensive hours, staying open until 1 AM on weekends, provide plenty of flexibility for late-night meetups, making it suitable for both casual dinners and more festive occasions. The combination of flavorful Korean barbecue, friendly staff, and the lively ambiance offers a unique backdrop where friends and family can reconnect over great food in a comfortable setting.
What activities can you do at San Soo Gab San?
At San Soo Gab San, the primary activity is the experience of authentic Korean barbecue. Guests are seated around tables equipped with built-in grills, making the act of cooking your own meats a centerpiece of the visit. This interactive dining encourages collaboration among your group members, as everyone can participate in grilling various high-quality cuts of beef, pork, and chicken seasoned with traditional Korean marinades. Beyond the grilling, the menu features a variety of side dishes known as banchan, such as kimchi, pickled vegetables, and seasoned greens, which your group can share and enjoy communally. This promotes not only a delicious meal but also a chance to explore different flavors together. Additionally, San Soo Gab San serves tofu soups and other Korean specialties, adding variety for those who may want a break from barbecue. The restaurant’s setting supports long conversations and relaxed gatherings, making it ideal for groups that want to spend hours enjoying food and company without rushed service. With alcohol served, such as soju and beer, it also fosters a convivial mood that’s perfect for celebrations or casual social meetups.
Why is San Soo Gab San perfect for group meetups?
San Soo Gab San's layout, menu, and longstanding reputation make it highly conducive to group meetups. The tables are designed to comfortably accommodate multiple people, providing enough space for sharing dishes and the communal grill in the middle. This setup naturally draws people together, as food preparation becomes a shared activity and a bonding moment. The menu is diverse enough to cater to various tastes and dietary preferences within a group, from meat lovers to vegetarians, who can enjoy the extensive range of side dishes and tofu soups. The pricing is moderate, striking a balance between quality and affordability, which is critical when dining as a group. The ambiance is casual but well-maintained, encouraging diners to linger and enjoy their time without feeling rushed, a key factor for successful meetups. Furthermore, San Soo Gab San’s hours, especially on weekends when it is open until 1 AM, allow groups flexibility in planning late dinners or extended social gatherings. Accessibility and parking options also add convenience for attendees arriving from different parts of the city.
How does the food quality enhance the group dining experience?
The food at San Soo Gab San elevates the group dining dynamic by offering consistently high-quality Korean barbecue and dishes recognized by a Michelin Bib Gourmand, distinguishing it as one of the best value restaurants in Chicago. The freshness and marination of the meats are crucial factors that guests repeatedly praise, ensuring that each bite is flavorful and satisfying. Sharing freshly grilled meat straight from the table grill fosters a sense of connection and enjoyment within the group, making the meal interactive rather than passive. Diverse side dishes provide a palette of tastes and textures that guests can discuss and savor, offering a culinary journey that complements the smoky, succulent grilled meats. The ample portion sizes are suitable for sharing, ensuring everyone gets to try a variety of dishes without feeling limited. The presence of traditional Korean tofu soups and other unique offerings expands the communal culinary experience and makes the meal inclusive to different appetites, enhancing the overall social dining experience.
What makes the atmosphere and service at San Soo Gab San conducive to social gatherings?
San Soo Gab San maintains a lively yet comfortable atmosphere that strikes the right balance for group meetings. The warm lighting and tasteful Korean décor create a welcoming environment that feels both festive and intimate, perfect for relaxed conversation and engagement. Staff members are known for their attentive and friendly service, which helps groups feel valued and taken care of without interrupting the flow of their interactions. The interactive nature of Korean barbecue dining is complemented by servers who guide guests on the best grilling techniques and timing, helping to ensure food quality and prevent any hassle. The layout and acoustic design of the space support socializing by limiting excessive noise and overcrowding, so groups can easily communicate without strain. Whether celebrating a special occasion or enjoying a casual night out with friends or family, the atmosphere encourages diners to linger and enjoy the experience fully. Extended weekend hours and alcohol offerings add to this convivial space, making San Soo Gab San an excellent venue for evening meetups that can last well into the night.
How does San Soo Gab San support accessibility and convenience for group visits?
San Soo Gab San is located in Chicago’s Lincoln Square neighborhood, a vibrant area that is accessible for many residents and visitors. The restaurant offers parking availability, an often crucial factor for groups traveling together, easing concerns about finding convenient places to park. Its position on Western Avenue places it near public transport routes, making it reachable via bus or train for those coming from different parts of the city. The establishment is wheelchair accessible, ensuring that all group members, regardless of mobility, can comfortably join the gathering. The ability to reserve tables, order takeout, or use delivery services adds flexibility, helping groups plan their meetups in the way that best suits their needs. Furthermore, with kitchen service extending late into the night on weekends, San Soo Gab San accommodates those who might prefer a later meetup time after work or other activities. These conveniences combine to make it easy and stress-free for groups to assemble and enjoy their time together.
What unique features distinguish San Soo Gab San from other Korean BBQ spots?
San Soo Gab San has built a reputation over more than three decades as a Michelin Bib Gourmand-awarded Korean barbecue destination, setting it apart through recognized excellence. Beyond its longevity in Chicago, this honor highlights its commitment to quality and value in a competitive culinary scene. The restaurant’s service hours, extending until 1 AM on weekends, provide a late-night dining option that is not common in many Korean barbecue restaurants. Its location in Lincoln Square offers a neighborhood vibe that contrasts with busier downtown venues, fostering a more relaxed and community-oriented atmosphere. Another distinguishing feature is the breadth of its Korean menu beyond barbecue, including hearty tofu soups and an array of traditional side dishes, which attracts both barbecue aficionados and those seeking authentic Korean comfort food. The interactive grilling experience is a core draw but enhanced by attentive staff who assist with cooking and offer knowledgeable recommendations, ensuring a smooth dining experience for groups new to Korean barbecue as well. These elements combine to make San Soo Gab San a preferred spot for group gatherings.
Why should you consider San Soo Gab San for your next family event or friend reunion?
San Soo Gab San stands out as an ideal venue for family events or friend reunions due to its blend of social dining, flavorful food, and accommodating environment. The interactive Korean BBQ format naturally brings people together, encouraging shared participation and making meal times dynamic and entertaining rather than passive. The variety on the menu supports diverse dietary needs and preferences, allowing everyone from kids to seasoned Korean cuisine lovers to find something enjoyable. Its casual yet clean and comfortable ambiance ensures that both formal family celebrations and casual friend hangouts feel appropriate and welcoming. The restaurant’s extended operating hours provide the flexibility necessary to fit into busy schedules or host longer gatherings without haste. Finally, given its longstanding reputation and consistent positive reviews, San Soo Gab San offers a dependable and beloved setting that adds to the confidence you want when choosing a spot to celebrate meaningful moments with loved ones.