When asking yourself about something to do near me in San Diego with a group of friends or family, consider
Song Hak Korean BBQ - San Diego
Why Song Hak Korean BBQ - San Diego is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Song Hak Korean BBQ in San Diego offers an authentic Korean barbecue experience, making it an excellent spot to meet up with friends and enjoy quality Korean cuisine. Established in 2015, the restaurant specializes in prime-grade meats, including traditional Korean barbecue cuts like Gopchang (beef intestines), Daechang, and Makchang, prepared by Korean master chefs ensuring exceptional taste and quality. Unlike many all-you-can-eat barbecue places, Song Hak focuses on a la carte and combo options, allowing diners to savor well-portioned cuts without pressure to over-order. This quality-over-quantity philosophy means the meat is highly marbled and flavorful, appreciated by many barbecue enthusiasts. The ambiance supports a lively yet comfortable gathering, complete with attentive service that often includes staff cooking the meat for guests, enhancing the communal dining experience. Menu highlights include prime beef combos, galbi jjim (tender beef ribs in flavorful soup), and the famous fried rice cooked on the griddle, which is a perfect end to the meal. Song Hak also offers a variety of Korean dishes beyond barbecue, such as cold ramen and Somyum jang gook. Located conveniently in San Diego's Convoy Street, Song Hak Korean BBQ delivers a satisfying culinary and social experience for groups seeking a genuine Korean BBQ meal.
Here's what people think of Song Hak Korean BBQ - San Diego
As of recent, Song Hak Korean BBQ - San Diego holds a 4.2-star rating based on 356 reviews.
Reviews for Song Hak Korean BBQ reflect a generally positive impression with an overall rating of 4.2 out of 5 from 356 reviews. Patrons appreciate the authentic flavors, high-quality meats, and the attentive, friendly service that contributes to a smooth dining experience. Many positive reviews highlight the skillful preparation of the meat by the waitstaff, the flavorful and diverse menu options, and the enjoyable atmosphere that makes Song Hak a top spot for Korean BBQ lovers in San Diego. Customers often mention favorite dishes like the prime meat combos, galbi jjim, and the fried rice for its delicious taste and perfect texture. On the downside, some diners note the inclusion of an 18% gratuity which caught them by surprise, as well as the lack of an all-you-can-eat option, which might be less appealing to those used to that style of Korean BBQ. A few reviews mention the higher price point, though many feel the quality justifies it. Overall, the reviews convey that Song Hak is appreciated for its authenticity, quality offerings, and excellent service, making it a reliable choice for those seeking a traditional Korean barbecue experience in San Diego.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Angela Docena
★★★★★ Amazing Korean BBQ Experience! I had an incredible dining experience at SongHak Korean BBQ in San Diego! From the moment we walked in, the staff was welcoming and attentive. We ordered the Combo 3, and every cut of meat was fresh, tender, and packed with flavour. The staff even helped cook the meat to perfection, which made the experience even better. The side dishes were amazing—I loved the kimchi, potato salad, and bean sprouts. Plus, the steamed egg and corn cheese that came with our combo were a delicious bonus! The atmosphere was lively but comfortable, making it a great place to enjoy a meal with friends or family. Yes, parking can be a bit tricky during peak hours, but it’s 100% worth it. If you're looking for authentic Korean BBQ with top-notch quality and service, this is the place to go! Can’t wait to come back!
Faith D
Back at Songhak again! I really do love that there's a kbbq spot thats not AYCE, and you can come here to order just what you want. This time we went with Prime Combo #2, meant to feed 2-3 people with: - Beef bulgogi - Beef brisket - pork belly - kimchi stew - steamed egg - corn cheese - various sides/banchan This was more than enough to feed the three people in our group with leftovers to spare! The kbbq is cooked and cut for you at your table which is a nice break from me usually being the cook at kbbq spots LOL but if that's something you enjoy, you can still have your fun! We also had also ordered japchae bc we love noodles and this one was done nicely with a good amount of meat and veggies! Parking is tight, but if you're patient (or lucky) and get a spot, this meal is well worth it! —— previous review ——- Ok just may have found the perfect kbbq spot for me in San Diego! I love kbbq in general, but sometimes AYCE is a lot! Song Hak is not AYCE and you can order Ala carte or in combos. We went with the prime combo #3 which is meant to serve 2-3 people. It’s a good amount of meat so it would prob be two VERY hungry people but we were 3 and still had leftovers. This combo came with Wagyu Beef Belly, Seasoned Boneless Short Rib Cut (Prime Chuck Flap Short Rib, Prime Bulgogi, and Prime Pork Jowl. Combos also come with corn cheese, a steamed egg pot, and soybean paste stew. We loved everything! Combo 3 had a good mix of meats and each of us had a different favorite but overall loved it all. Staff were super helpful and actually started off the cooking and cutting for us which was nice. We also ordered the seamed pork and chive dumpling with was very good!
Melia
Outstanding Korean BBQ experience. I had never tried intestine before, but since it’s a specialty here, we tried the Dae Chang (large beef intestine). It was full of flavor and had an interesting texture. We also ordered the Wagyu Beef Belly, Prime Pork Jowl, and the Prime Brisket. Our waitress put the meat on the grill for us and adjusted the heat when needed. Per usual for Korean BBQ, the accompanying sides were awesome. We also ordered ChumChurum Soju (sugar free) and Cass beer which came with small glasses to measure and mix the two drinks together. Luckily we were with someone who regularly orders Korean BBQ, so we were taught how to enjoy the beverages and food. Ordering four meat dishes was plenty of food for our group of 4 and they offered boxes for the food we didn’t quite finish which was nice. Parking was a little tricky due to the many businesses in this area; however, just down the street is a paid public parking lot for just $3 an hour. Highly recommend this spot!
Michelle Ng
Every time we've come back, we are reminded of how amazing the food is here! - PARKING - The parking lot is almost always full due to the fact there are so many amazing businesses! You'll have to hope you get lucky and come in when someone is leaving, or opt to park on a neighboring street and walk over. - SERVICE/ENVIRONMENT - Fairly decent dining area! They have a few tables dedicated to BBQ and other ones that don't have the stove. The service here is always so welcoming, and unlike the AYCE KBBQ spots, they help you cook the meat here. If it gets busy, the staff may step aside and you'll have to make sure the meat doesn't burn, but that's not an issue most of the time! They also continuously change out your grill without you asking! - FOOD - Prime Combo #3: Our favorite combo as it has all our favorite meats! I love how it comes with corn cheese, steamed egg and stew! The Wagyu Beef Belly, Pork Jowl, Short Rib and Bulgogi all are delicious! Jjajangmyeon: So saucey and addictive to eat! Lots of noodles to go around here! Kimchi Pancake: Also a very decent size for a shareable appetizer! This actually was on the spicy side surprisingly! - OVERALL - A great spot if you don't want to overeat at AYCE and want some quality meat instead!
Crystal Kamada
UPDATE 6/25/25: There's a reason we keep coming back - Songhak has some of the best quality kbbq! We are such die-hard fans of their bbq combos, but today we tried something different and just got a full order of beef belly and an order of the Galbi Jim and added cheese. Service is excellent as always - they help cook up your bbq and change the grill as needed. The Galbi Jim came out on a sizzling plate, but after our beef belly was done cooking our waitresses took out the grill and set the pot of Galbi Jim on top to keep it warm. You can order this with either soy based sauce or a spicy sauce with level 1-3 spice, and we really loved level 2 spicy. You still get all the bonchon and garnishes like onions and bean sprouts and radish slices for the bbq. Pro Tip- since this spot is notoriously crowded and parking is a challenge, we like to come on a weekday in between the lunch and dinner rushes. We found parking more easily and the restaurant was quite peaceful and comfortable to dine there as a family with our son. We always have the best experience whenever we come here. We always get the Prime Combo 1 which has brisket, beef belly and pork jowl, and includes corn cheese, steamed egg and soy bean stew, along with bonchon. We love the service here too - the server helps is cool it all up to perfection, and when we order spicy fried rice with cheese at the end, she preps it all then puts it on our grill to melt the cheese. Perfect every time. The place has always been pristine clean and bright too. This time we also tried the chadol champon, which is a spicy noodle soup with brisket. The portion was huge! We will definitely be back again. We want to try more of their non bbq items but just can't pass up that combo 😆
How to reach Song Hak Korean BBQ - San Diego
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Why Song Hak Korean BBQ - San Diego may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Song Hak Korean BBQ with your friends?
Gathering your friends for a memorable meal often hinges on choosing a place that offers more than just food — it’s about the atmosphere, the quality, and the shared experience. Song Hak Korean BBQ in San Diego is an ideal rallying point for groups looking to enjoy an engaging and delicious outing. This restaurant excels at providing a social dining experience where guests don’t just eat but actively participate in cooking their food right at the table. The lively sizzle of premium-quality meats grilling over each table’s flame fosters a sense of camaraderie and fun. Guests can savor authentic Korean flavors while bonding over the interactive cooking process. Its welcoming and attentive staff ensure that your group’s experience is smooth and enjoyable, even during the excitement of busy nights. While the restaurant has a solid 4.2-star rating from over 350 reviews, its true appeal lies in creating vibrant moments that make multi-person meetups feel special and unique — perfect for friends or families wanting an engaging night out together.
What activities can you enjoy at Song Hak Korean BBQ that make it perfect for group meetups?
Song Hak Korean BBQ offers several activities and features catering to groups, making it a standout spot for social gatherings. First, the cornerstone of its appeal is the interactive Korean BBQ dining style where each guest or group grills their own premium cuts of meat at the table. This hands-on comradery is a built-in icebreaker and a fun way to bond, as everyone participates in the cooking process rather than simply being served. Beyond grilling, the menu offers a broad array of options including classic Korean dishes and specialty items like pork belly, brisket, kalbi (short ribs), and various seafood and vegetarian choices, allowing groups with mixed preferences to find something for everyone. The inclusion of Korean staples like fried rice cooked in flavorful drippings adds to the variety. Song Hak also offers Korean beers and beverages that keep the mood lively and festive, reinforcing the experience as a full social event rather than just a meal. The restaurant’s ambiance fosters conversation, laughter, and shared enjoyment, complementing any occasion from casual hangouts to celebratory dinners. Parking availability and a friendly, attentive staff enhance convenience and service for groups, assuring a smooth meetup from start to finish.
How does the interactive Korean BBQ experience at Song Hak enhance group dynamics?
The interactive Korean BBQ experience is the defining feature of Song Hak that sets it apart from conventional dining venues, especially for groups. Unlike typical restaurants where meals arrive plated and ready to eat, Korean BBQ requires diners to actively engage with their food preparation, transforming meals into shared experiences. At Song Hak, each group is provided with a grill embedded in the table. This makes the cooking aspect a collaborative effort — friends or family members decide what to grill, who tends the meat, and how to customize each bite with accompanying sides and sauces. The sizzling sound and enticing aroma create a sensory atmosphere that encourages chatting and laughter. The act of grilling together naturally breaks down social barriers, sparks fun conversations, and balances time spent cooking with moments of eating and relaxing. This immersive involvement makes it more than just dining; it turns the meal into an event where stories are shared, roles are playfully assigned, and the focus is on collective enjoyment. Thus, Song Hak’s Korean BBQ service enriches group dynamics by encouraging interaction, cooperation, and conviviality throughout the meal.
What cuisine and menu options are available for groups with diverse tastes?
Song Hak Korean BBQ’s thoughtfully curated menu caters to varied palates, making it an excellent choice for groups with diverse food preferences. The restaurant specializes in Korean BBQ, featuring premium meats such as bulgogi (marinated beef), kalbi (short ribs), pork belly, and brisket that appeal to meat lovers. Each option is selected for quality and flavor, allowing patrons to enjoy an authentic taste of Korean cuisine. For those who may not want BBQ, Song Hak offers additional Korean dishes from their regular menu that includes soups, stews, and rice dishes, ensuring variety beyond the grilling station. They also accommodate different spice preferences as many dishes are flavorful yet mildly spiced, which broadens appeal for guests who may prefer less heat. The presence of Korean side dishes, known as banchan, like kimchi and pickled vegetables, are plentiful and help round out the meal, adding layers of texture and taste. For groups including vegetarians or guests seeking lighter fare, side dishes and some non-meat options provide balanced choices. As a whole, the menu balance between interactive BBQ and traditional Korean dishes satisfies varied appetites and dietary needs within a single group.
What makes Song Hak Korean BBQ a convenient and welcoming spot for hosting meetups?
Beyond food and experience, practical considerations make Song Hak Korean BBQ a practical and welcoming venue for group meetups. The restaurant is located in San Diego’s Convoy Street area, a popular destination known for diverse Asian cuisines and vibrant dining scenes, which makes it easily accessible. The venue offers free parking, a blessing for groups who travel together by car, reducing the stress often associated with finding parking in busy areas. Inside, the staff at Song Hak are described as friendly, attentive, and quick to assist, which helps keep group events on track without fuss. This attentiveness is especially valuable in Korean BBQ settings where timing and grill management are part of the experience. The interior atmosphere encourages socializing, with ample seating designed to accommodate groups comfortably, creating an inviting environment whether the meet-up is casual or celebratory. Finally, the overall service approach helps mitigate potential long wait times that Korean BBQ spots sometimes face, ensuring a smoother and more relaxed dining event. These factors culminate in an engaging yet hassle-free setting ideal for friends and families wanting to connect over a great meal.
How do guests rate Song Hak Korean BBQ overall and what are common praises or critiques?
With a solid 4.2-star rating based on 356 reviews, Song Hak Korean BBQ enjoys a generally positive reception among diners. Many reviewers praise the quality of the meats, describing them as premium and flavorful, which is a cornerstone for Korean BBQ enthusiasts. The lively and interactive dining experience also receives commendations for making meals fun and social occasions. The staff often receives compliments for being friendly and attentive, adding to the welcoming vibe that many groups appreciate. Some guests particularly highlight the variety of menu choices that accommodate different tastes and dietary needs within a group. However, critiques occasionally arise concerning pricing, which some consider on the higher side if not ordering combo sets. Additionally, the restaurant can get busy, and there are notes about long wait times even when tables seem available, reflecting high demand and sometimes slower turnover. Despite these critiques, the majority of feedback confirms that Song Hak provides a satisfying and enjoyable Korean BBQ experience that many patrons return to for reunions and group celebrations.
What is the overall dining atmosphere at Song Hak that makes it suitable for social gatherings?
Song Hak Korean BBQ’s dining atmosphere is vibrant, interactive, and social, making it an excellent choice for group gatherings. The central feature of table-side grilling naturally generates warmth, movement, and a sensory experience that heightens engagement among diners. The smell of sizzling meat and the sound of flames draw people into a lively shared activity, breaking down the role of passive eating and turning it into a collective event. The layout of tables allows groups to sit closely together, facilitating easy conversation and interaction across the table. The lighting and decor focus on comfort and functionality, rather than pretense, encouraging guests to relax and enjoy the experience fully. Moreover, the presence of Korean beers and beverages enhances the festive mood, often resulting in a more celebratory environment, especially on weekends or special occasions. For these reasons, the atmosphere at Song Hak balances energetic fun with cozy intimacy, a key ingredient for successful meetups of friends or family.
How does Song Hak Korean BBQ compare to other Korean BBQ options in San Diego?
Compared to other Korean BBQ restaurants in San Diego, Song Hak offers a distinctive balance of quality, authenticity, and interactive dining experience. While the Korean BBQ scene in San Diego is rich and competitive, Song Hak stands out for its focus on premium cuts of meat and attentive personalized service. Some competitors may offer lower prices or more customized combo options, but Song Hak’s emphasis on quality ensures a satisfying meal for those prioritizing taste and authenticity. The interactive element of grilling, combined with a broad Korean menu, gives it versatility for groups with varied preferences. Some diners mention the slightly higher pricing and occasional wait times as trade-offs for its popularity and quality. Overall, Song Hak fits well into the mid-to-upper tier of Korean BBQ options, offering a compelling choice for groups wanting a memorable, flavor-rich communal dining experience without sacrificing comfort or service.
What special considerations should groups keep in mind when planning a meetup at Song Hak?
When planning a meetup at Song Hak Korean BBQ, groups should consider a few practical points to ensure a smooth experience. First, given the restaurant’s popularity and limited parking, arriving early or coordinating rides may help avoid parking difficulties. Reservations or calls ahead can be beneficial since wait times may occur, especially on weekends or peak hours. The pricing structure encourages ordering combo sets for better value and a more varied meal experience, so planning the menu choices with the group in advance can help manage cost and satisfy everyone’s palate. Since the dining style requires some participation in cooking, groups should be ready to enjoy an interactive meal rather than a traditional sit-and-eat setup. For those with dietary restrictions, checking the menu ahead for side dish options or other non-grilled items can accommodate needs. Finally, planning for a relaxed pace is wise, as Korean BBQ meals usually take longer than typical dining outings, turning the meetup into a true social occasion rather than a quick meal.
This comprehensive overview highlights why Song Hak Korean BBQ is a compelling venue for group meetups. Its blend of interactive dining, authentic Korean cuisine, lively atmosphere, and attentive service ensures that friends or families coming together can share a fun, flavorful, and memorable experience in San Diego.