Koreatown NYC 32nd St between 5th and 6th Ave
Experience top-tier Korean BBQ in NYC's vibrant Koreatown, with expert grilling and high-quality meats.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Avoid weekend crowds
Koreatown NYC 32nd St between 5th and 6th Ave
Best Time
Avoid weekend crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Experience top-tier Korean BBQ in NYC's vibrant Koreatown, with expert grilling and high-quality meats.
"The overall experience here that I love. Combining different side dishes and eating them together was so fun and delicious."
🎯 Put your name down early
On weekends, add your name to the waitlist by 6-6:30 PM to minimize your wait time. :hourglassflowingsand:
🥩 Servers cook for you!
Relax and let the staff grill your meat to perfection. They know the ideal cooking times! :fire:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
All-You-Can-Eat BBQ
Jongro BBQ Market
Indulge in unlimited, high-quality Korean BBQ. A grand opening special offered free AYCE for groups of four!
Expertly Grilled Meats
Jongro BBQ
Servers cook your meat to perfection, ensuring optimal texture and tenderness. No need to worry about over or undercooking!
Authentic K-Town Vibe
Koreatown NYC (32nd St)
Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of NYC's Koreatown, a true taste of South Korea.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Lines at Jongro BBQ
KBBQ Pricing & Portions
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Put your name down early
On weekends, add your name to the waitlist by 6-6:30 PM to minimize your wait time. :hourglassflowingsand:
🥩 Servers cook for you!
Relax and let the staff grill your meat to perfection. They know the ideal cooking times! :fire:
💸 Expect premium pricing
High-quality KBBQ comes with a price tag, but many find it worth the splurge. :moneybag:
👯♀️ Bring your friends!
Some specials, like the free AYCE offer, require a group of three or four. :twomenholding_hands:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Put your name down early
On weekends, add your name to the waitlist by 6-6:30 PM to minimize your wait time. :hourglassflowingsand:
🥩 Servers cook for you!
Relax and let the staff grill your meat to perfection. They know the ideal cooking times! :fire:
💸 Expect premium pricing
High-quality KBBQ comes with a price tag, but many find it worth the splurge. :moneybag:
👯♀️ Bring your friends!
Some specials, like the free AYCE offer, require a group of three or four. :twomenholding_hands:
🍶 Try a Soju Bomb
Mix soju and beer for a fun, potent drink – a K-Town tradition! :wine_glass:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Jongro BBQ in Koreatown NYC is highly praised for its exceptional quality meat and attentive service, with staff expertly grilling dishes to perfection. While the prices are on the higher end, most diners find the experience and food quality well worth the splurge. Some minor drawbacks include occasional sweetness in marinades and the need for early arrival to avoid long waits.
"The meat was too sweet. The prices are very expensive but I understand that the meat is of quality. The problem is that everything was too sweet. The platters are already very old and scratched. Are it still able to use them? Tipping is suggested but they still want you to give them 30% Obligatorily... I was excited, there were waiters who served with a smile but other seemed unhappy and didn't even ask if we needed anything else."
Rebecca Zhang
"It's so worth trying this place out. We had to wait a bit to be served because it was busy. The food was amazing and fresh, understandable why it's on the pricier end. We were surprised that the server cooks the meet for us, which we are very glad they did. They know how long to cook the meat to reach the best texture and tenderness. It was the overall experience here that I love. Combining different side dishes and eating them together was so fun and delicious. All the servers were kind and professional, and they were also low-key attractive. I really want to return when I visit again.
Note: I think we had some sort of beef platter and it came with a bunch of side dishes. We also ordered a side of pancake. This was for a party of 3. Each of us spent probably around $50. We weren't stuffed but the portion was still perfect."
dreamynation
"One of the top tier KBBQ spots in Ktown and the pricing is reflective of that. Been here a handful of times already, and the meats, cuts, and service is always excellent. Dont worry about cooking your food because they do that for you here. Just make sure to chew thoroughly. You’ll be spending a pretty penny here for sure, but it’s all worth it. Lines can get long on the weekends! They also have specials running here and there (see pics). All in all, a nice atmosphere when you walk through the elevators as it feels like you transformed to maybe South Korea?"
abcdan
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Koreatown NYC, specifically the area around 32nd St between 5th and 6th Ave, is easily accessible by subway. The closest stations include Herald Square (N, Q, R, W, B, D, F, M) and 34th Street-Penn Station (1, 2, 3, A, C, E). Many bus lines also serve the area.
Parking in Koreatown can be challenging and expensive. While there are garages, it's often more convenient to use public transportation or ride-sharing services.
Walking is the best way to explore Koreatown NYC. The main action is concentrated on 32nd Street, making it easy to hop between restaurants and shops on foot.
Yes, several subway lines stop near Koreatown. The N, Q, R, W, B, D, F, and M trains stop at Herald Square, which is just a block away. The 1, 2, 3, A, C, and E trains stop at 34th Street-Penn Station, a short walk away.
Absolutely! Koreatown NYC is very walkable, with most of the popular restaurants and shops located within a few blocks on 32nd Street.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Reservations are not typically required for Jongro BBQ, but wait times can be significant, especially on weekends. It's recommended to put your name on the list early, around 6-6:30 PM.
Many restaurants in Koreatown, including Jongro BBQ, are open late. Jongro BBQ is known to be open late, which is a plus for those craving KBBQ after typical dinner hours.
There is no entrance fee to visit Koreatown NYC. It's a neighborhood, and you only pay for what you consume at the restaurants and shops.
Jongro BBQ has been known to run specials, including grand opening offers for all-you-can-eat BBQ for groups. Keep an eye on their social media for current promotions.
Wait times at popular KBBQ spots like Jongro can range from 30 minutes to over an hour, especially during peak hours and on weekends. Arriving early or during off-peak times can help.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Jongro BBQ is frequently cited as one of the best Korean BBQ spots in Koreatown NYC, known for its high-quality meat and excellent service. Other popular options include Baekjeong and Wonjo.
The beef platters are highly recommended, offering a variety of high-quality cuts. Don't miss the banchan (side dishes) and consider trying the corn cheese.
Some diners have noted that the meat marinades can be on the sweeter side. If you prefer less sweet flavors, you might want to ask for recommendations or opt for less marinated cuts.
Portion sizes can vary, but KBBQ platters are often generous and come with a variety of banchan. A platter for three people can be around $50 per person, leaving you satisfied but not overly stuffed.
While you can grill your own meat, the staff at Jongro BBQ are skilled at cooking it to perfection for you, ensuring the best texture and flavor.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the vibrant street life of 32nd Street, the neon signs, and the bustling restaurant interiors. The atmosphere itself is very photogenic.
Yes, it's generally acceptable to take photos of your food in Koreatown restaurants. Many visitors share their dining experiences online. +1
A smartphone with good low-light capabilities is perfect for capturing the ambiance of Koreatown, especially at night. A mirrorless or DSLR camera can also capture stunning detail.
The beautifully presented KBBQ platters, colorful banchan, and the sizzling meat on the grill are all highly photogenic. Don't forget to capture the unique drinks like soju bombs!
Both daytime and nighttime offer unique photographic opportunities. Daytime captures the bustling street scene, while nighttime brings out the vibrant neon lights and cozy restaurant interiors.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting during earlier hours to avoid the peak crowds and potential noise. Many Korean restaurants also offer comforting dishes like bibimbap or fried rice, which are generally kid-friendly. The vibrant atmosphere of Koreatown can be an exciting adventure for children, exposing them to a different culture and cuisine.
💸 Budget Travelers
Exploring the neighborhood itself is free! Wander through the streets, admire the shops, and soak in the atmosphere. You can also find more budget-friendly options for Korean snacks or desserts from smaller vendors. Prioritize one or two splurge meals at highly-rated KBBQ places and balance it with more economical choices for other meals.
👫 Couples
After dinner, consider a visit to a Korean dessert cafe for some sweet treats or a karaoke bar for some playful entertainment. The vibrant nightlife and diverse culinary scene make Koreatown a fantastic destination for couples looking for a unique and engaging night out in the city.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Jongro BBQ Experience
The atmosphere is often described as lively and energetic, with a vibe that transports you to South Korea. While the prices are on the higher side, many reviewers feel the premium quality and overall experience justify the cost. Be prepared for potential wait times, especially on weekends, as it's a very popular spot.
Beyond the BBQ, the banchan (side dishes) are also a highlight, offering a variety of fresh and flavorful accompaniments. Don't miss out on trying unique items like the corn cheese. The combination of delicious food, excellent service, and a vibrant atmosphere makes Jongro BBQ a must-visit for KBBQ enthusiasts.
Navigating Koreatown NYC
Exploring Koreatown is best done on foot. The main street, 32nd Street, is packed with restaurants, cafes, and shops, making it easy to hop from one experience to another. Evenings are particularly lively, with neon signs illuminating the streets and the aroma of delicious food filling the air. It’s a sensory delight, offering a glimpse into the heart of Korean culture in New York City.
When visiting, be aware that popular restaurants, especially KBBQ spots like Jongro BBQ, can get very busy. Planning your visit during off-peak hours or being prepared for a wait is advisable. Embrace the bustling atmosphere and be open to trying new flavors and experiences.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit