When asking yourself about something to do near me in Portland with a group of friends or family, consider
Toji Korean Grill House
Why Toji Korean Grill House is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Toji Korean Grill House, established in 2002, is a family-owned restaurant in Portland known for delivering an exceptional Korean barbecue experience. It offers a unique dining concept where guests enjoy grilling fresh, hand-cut meats right at their table using high-quality SHINPO grills that minimize greasy smoke, allowing for a clean and pleasant atmosphere. The restaurant prides itself on a diverse menu that includes authentic Korean dishes such as kalbi (ribs), bibimbap, mandoo guk (dumpling soup), pajeon (scallion pancakes), yukgaejang, seafood pancake, ramen, and pork kimchi. Many dishes come accompanied by flavorful side dishes like kimchi and shredded daikon radishes, enhancing each meal. With its warm, family-friendly setting and options that range from all-you-can-eat combos to tailored platters, Toji Korean Grill House offers a fun and interactive dining experience perfect for groups and friends looking to enjoy authentic Korean cuisine in a lively environment.
Here's what people think of Toji Korean Grill House
As of recent, Toji Korean Grill House holds a 4.3-star rating based on 566 reviews.
Customer reviews of Toji Korean Grill House reflect a strong appreciation for its authentic Korean flavors and interactive grilling experience. Positive reviewers often highlight the freshness and quality of the meats, particularly the hand-cut galbi, and the variety of delicious side dishes that accompany the meal. The fun aspect of grilling at the table and the attentive service are also common praises, making it a favorite spot for both family dinners and outings with friends. The flavorful preparation of classic dishes like bibimbap, mandoo guk, and seafood pancake adds to the appeal. However, some negative feedback focuses on occasional issues such as long wait times during busy periods and the pricing relative to portion sizes. A few customers have mentioned that the restaurant can get smoky despite the specialized grills. Overall, reviews suggest that the strengths of great food quality, authentic taste, and a memorable dining experience outweigh the minor drawbacks. The consistent positive reception over hundreds of reviews underscores Toji Korean Grill House as a top choice for Korean barbecue in Portland.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Josh A
My girlfriend and I went here for dinner. We chose the Option D on the all you can eat menu and were shocked at the quality of the food we received. It was much better than similar all you can eat kbbq places we have been in both Oregon and California. Katie our attendant was very nice and sweet and explained the menu to us. She came by frequently but not to the point where it was ruining the atmosphere of our date. Will definitely be recommending this place to our friends and family
Meli Lassorela
Very nice place, helpful staff and lovely food! We called beforehand and made a reservation but there is a waitlist at the restaurant too if you want. Very delicious meat and side dishes!
黃鴨子
We ordered unlimited Korean bbq. There r 4 options, I think option A is enough. All kind of meat they give is such a big portion. First they will ask u to choose 4 kinds of meat, but I suggest asking for only 2 at the beginning. The beef brisket is good. The marinated meat sauce is too sweet for me, so we only choose beef brisket for second round. Staff are all very friendly, they will come to ask what you need even they are often very busy. The only downside is their kimchi has a bit odd of taste. But other side dishes are good .
Lindsey Franco
Updated Review March 7, 2025: as a couple, we walked in like we always have done. Signed up on their reservation list as a walk-in. Every name above our's was seated and crossed off. So we were next. We sat on the bench for 30 minutes. No one from the restaurant checked in again, or let us know what the wait time would be. We were patiently waiting. ⏳️ 📋🕕 One Waitress asked if we had reservations and I pointed to the clipboard near us saying, "yes we signed up." My name was down and it said "6:40pm" when I signed up. She walked off and we didn't see her again. We saw another couple right by the front door finish eating, pay and leave. So bam! A table opened up. After 30 minutes, two more couples walked in. Just like we did. Signed up. THEN they were both seated before we were even acknowledged. It was really disappointing and upsetting. We left as soon as that happened and it left us not wanting to come back again. It wasn't fair at all. 😢😭 Our previous 2 experiences here, we got seated immediately, put in the corner, and neglected as soon as our food arrived. So we always got Buffet style (no refilling of the foods though) which is plenty of food for us both, the sides are very small to share between 2 people so I would suggest asking for more right away when you have their attention. We always also get 2 large beers so we don't have to wait around for refills. Review from 2024: The Korean BBQ Buffet menu? Do it! $30.99/per person. Tons of meats to choose from, little sides, and sauces. What a deal! They dissappear on you though, no refilling on drinks or food unless you get up and wave them down to ask. ($10 charge for asking for a box of course for food that isn't eaten. Just so you know, its on the menu in fine print).
Andre Reyes
Went here with a group of friends on a Friday night with no reservations, had to wait a little while before we were seated but wasn’t too long. Once we were seated service was prompt, friendly, and informative. Admittedly we are all fairly new to Korean BBQ and the serve could tell. She gave us tips and tricks on how to cook the meat more efficiently. All the meat was delicious and so were the sides. The soju juice pitchers were amazing as well.
How to reach Toji Korean Grill House
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Why Toji Korean Grill House may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Gathering with friends is all about sharing memorable experiences, and Toji Korean Grill House offers the perfect setting for just that. Located in Portland, this Korean barbecue spot is celebrated for its vibrant atmosphere where every table comes equipped with its own grill, allowing groups to cook their own meat right at the table. This interactive dining style makes for an engaging, hands-on experience that naturally encourages conversation, laughter, and teamwork. With a strong rating of 4.3 from over 560 reviews, Toji is known not only for its delicious, authentic Korean flavors but also for its ability to accommodate large groups comfortably, making it an ideal rally point for friends and family to catch up and enjoy quality time together. The variety of meat cuts, marinated options, and traditional side dishes creates a dynamic communal feast that everyone can personalize and savor. Whether it’s a casual weekend meet-up or a special occasion, the social and lively environment here elevates every gathering into a fun, flavorful celebration.
What makes Toji Korean Grill House ideal for group meetups?
Toji Korean Grill House stands out as a premier venue for groups because it offers more than just a meal; it provides a culinary experience that everyone can partake in together. The centerpiece of every visit is the tabletop grill where guests cook their choice of meats, which turns dining into an interactive event rather than a passive activity. This setup naturally fosters a sense of camaraderie as people share cooking duties, exchange tips, and sample each other’s grilled delights. The restaurant also boasts a spacious and inviting layout, accommodating large parties comfortably without feeling cramped or rushed. Plus, the extensive menu caters to varied tastes, including beef, pork, chicken, and a host of side dishes like kimchi, pajeon (scallion pancakes), and mandoo guk (dumpling soup), ensuring everyone in the group finds something they enjoy. This inclusivity makes Toji perfect for mixed groups with diverse preferences. The reliable and friendly service further enhances the ease of hosting a stress-free gathering where friends can simply focus on enjoying food and each other’s company.
What activities can you enjoy at Toji Korean Grill House?
The primary activity at Toji Korean Grill House centers around Korean barbecue grilling, which is both entertaining and delicious. Unlike typical dining, you don’t just order plates and wait for the food to arrive; you become the chef, grilling various marinated and un-marinated cuts of meat yourself using the built-in grills at your table. This hands-on cooking is a delightful way to bond over food, as it invites everyone to participate actively in making their meal. Besides grilling, guests can partake in savoring a variety of traditional Korean appetizers and side dishes that come with the meat, such as shredded daikon radishes, spicy tofu soup, and fish cakes. These small dishes introduce guests to authentic flavors and textures, making the meal well-rounded and engaging. Furthermore, the ambiance of Toji is subtly festive, with the gentle sizzle of meat on grills and the casual chatter of diners creating a relaxed yet lively atmosphere perfect for socializing. Many returning customers highlight the fun and immersive dining experience as the top reason to come back with friends.
Why is the quality of food at Toji Korean Grill House outstanding for gatherings?
The food quality at Toji Korean Grill House consistently receives praise, which is crucial when hosting a group event where everyone’s taste matters. The restaurant is known for fresh, high-quality cuts of meat that can be grilled perfectly to individual preferences. Many diners commend the flavorful marinades, especially the beef brisket, which stands out as a crowd favorite. Although some find certain sauces a bit sweet, the variety allows guests to pick options that best suit their tastes and experiment with different flavors throughout the meal. Apart from the meat, Toji offers an impressive array of traditional Korean sides and soups, contributing to a diverse and satisfying dining experience. The freshness and authentic seasoning of these dishes ensure that the meal feels genuine and crafted with care. Such attention to quality translates into happier guests who are eager to share their food journey with friends and family, making the place an excellent choice for repeat group visits.
What about the ambiance and service enhances meetup experiences?
Toji Korean Grill House balances a warm, casual atmosphere with attentive service, two factors that elevate group meetups from ordinary dinners to memorable occasions. The lighting and decor evoke an inviting Korean dining experience without being overly formal, so guests feel comfortable relaxing and spending ample time chatting and eating. The restaurant can get busy, as its popularity suggests, but staff are known to be friendly, efficient, and helpful, even with large parties, ensuring smooth service that lets groups focus on each other rather than waitstaff. The ability to control the cooking pace by grilling at the table also means there’s no pressure to eat quickly, supporting a leisurely and social meal. Group diners often mention the staff’s knowledge and willingness to assist in explaining grill use or menu recommendations, which adds confidence and enjoyment, especially for those new to Korean barbecue. This thoughtful service style contributes to the overall positive vibes and successful social interactions during gatherings.
How does Toji Korean Grill House accommodate different group sizes and needs?
Whether it’s a small group of close friends or a larger family reunion, Toji Korean Grill House is well-equipped to accommodate a range of party sizes and preferences. Tables are designed specifically for Korean barbecue, each featuring an individual grill, allowing small groups to enjoy an intimate, hands-on cooking environment while larger groups can reserve multiple tables nearby to stay connected. The restaurant’s layout is flexible, enabling adjustments for varying group sizes without disrupting the experience. Moreover, the menu’s wide selection of meat options and side dishes ensures catering to different dietary preferences is simple – from meat lovers to those wanting lighter or milder flavors. Some guests opt for the all-you-can-eat options while others sample smaller portions, so it’s easy to build a meal tailored to the group’s appetite and budget. Toji’s combination of space, menu diversity, and interactive dining mechanics makes it an effortless yet delightful venue choice for multiple group dynamics.
What do visitors say about their experiences at Toji Korean Grill House?
Reviews from visitors highlight consistently positive experiences, with many noting the fun, communal aspect of grilling meat together as a standout memory. Customers appreciate the authentic Korean flavors that remind some of meals enjoyed abroad or offer locals a genuine taste of Korean cuisine. The friendly service and thoughtful attention to each table’s needs enhance the experience further, especially during busy times. Many repeat customers mention the excitement of trying different meat cuts and dipping sauces, as well as the satisfying variety of accompanying side dishes that keep every bite interesting. While some find the pricing a bit on the higher side, most agree the quality and experience justify the cost. Overall, the feedback from diverse guests – families, friends, and couples – underscores Toji’s reputability as a top Korean barbecue destination in Portland that encourages social dining and memorable gatherings.
Why should you choose Toji Korean Grill House for your next event?
Choosing Toji Korean Grill House for your next meetup or celebration guarantees an experience that is both deliciously interactive and socially engaging. The combination of high-quality meats, authentic Korean side dishes, and the unique tabletop grilling setup transforms a meal into a group activity that everyone can enjoy together. The comfortable, welcoming environment allows guests to linger, talk, and savor each stage of the meal at their own pace. Additionally, accommodating different group sizes and dietary preferences ensures inclusivity, making it an easy decision for mixed parties. Friendly and attentive service further ensures your event flows smoothly without any hassle. When the goal is to create fun, lasting memories over great food, Toji Korean Grill House stands out as a top choice for any friend or family gathering.