Why Hongdae for BBQ?
If you've ever watched a K-drama and thought, "I need to eat that grilled meat immediately," you're not alone. Korean BBQ (고기구이) is one of the most iconic food experiences in the world — and Hongdae (홍대) is one of the best places to experience it.
Unlike the overpriced tourist spots near Myeongdong, Hongdae's BBQ restaurants cater to university students and young Koreans. That means better quality at lower prices, bigger portions, and a vibe that's authentically Korean.
Types of Korean BBQ
Not all Korean BBQ is the same. Here's what you'll find on most menus:
Samgyeopsal (삼겹살) — thick-cut pork belly, the undisputed king of Korean BBQ. Affordable, fatty, and absolutely delicious when wrapped in lettuce with garlic and ssamjang.
Galbi (갈비) — marinated beef short ribs. Sweeter, more tender, and typically more expensive than pork. The marinade usually includes soy sauce, pear juice, and garlic.
Gopchang (곱창) — grilled intestines. Sounds intimidating, but the crispy, chewy texture is addictive. A local favorite that most tourist guides skip.
Don't order galbi at a samgyeopsal restaurant or vice versa. Korean BBQ places usually specialize in one type. Look at what the tables around you are eating — that's the specialty.
How to Eat Korean BBQ
The biggest mistake foreigners make? Eating the meat by itself. Korean BBQ is all about the wrap (싸). Here's the proper technique:
Take a piece of lettuce or perilla leaf. Place a piece of grilled meat on it. Add a thin slice of raw garlic, a dab of ssamjang (fermented bean paste), and optionally some grilled kimchi. Wrap it up and eat it in one bite. Yes, one bite — stuffing your face is part of the experience.
The youngest person at the table usually handles the grilling. If you're eating with Korean friends, offer to grill — they'll appreciate it. Also, never pour your own drink; always pour for others and let them pour for you.
Our Top Picks in Hongdae
After eating at over 30 BBQ restaurants in Hongdae over the past two years, these are the ones we keep going back to. No sponsored placements — just honest recommendations.
Yeontabal
연타발-
Location3-min walk from Hongdae Station Exit 9
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Recommended Menu
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Price Range$12-18 per person
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English Menu
Hwangso Gopchang
황소곱창-
Location5-min walk from Hapjeong Station Exit 3
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Recommended Menu
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Price Range$15-22 per person
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English Menu⚠ Limited (basic items only)
How to Order
Most BBQ restaurants have a simple ordering process. You'll typically order by "in-bun" (인분), meaning "per person." So "samgyeopsal 2 inbun" means two servings of pork belly. Most places require a minimum of 2 servings per meat type.
Side dishes (반찬) are free and unlimited — yes, really. Just point to an empty dish and they'll refill it. Kimchi, pickled radish, bean sprouts, and lettuce wraps are standard.
"Samgyeopsal i-inbun juseyo" (삼겹살 2인분 주세요) = Two servings of pork belly please
"Banchan deo juseyo" (반찬 더 주세요) = More side dishes please
"Gyesan-hae juseyo" (계산해 주세요) = Check please
Budget Tips
Korean BBQ doesn't have to break the bank. Here's how to eat well on a budget:
Stick to pork over beef — samgyeopsal is typically ₩12,000-15,000 ($9-12) per serving, while beef galbi can be ₩25,000+ ($19+). Lunch specials are often 20-30% cheaper. And remember: side dishes are free, so fill up on those too.