Korean food is having a moment, and that moment is now. From casual spots serving up spicy stews to upscale Korean BBQ joints where you grill your own dinner, New Jersey has a fantastic range of Korean dining experiences to offer.
If you’re looking for the best of the best, you’ve come to the right place. This guide will walk you through some of the best Korean restaurants New Jersey has to offer, taking into account authenticity, quality of ingredients, ambiance, and price.
We’ve broken down our recommendations by region—North Jersey, Central Jersey, the Jersey Shore, and South Jersey—and highlighted different types of Korean BBQ experiences, from all-you-can-eat feasts to a la carte menus. We’ll also point out some must-try dishes along the way. Get ready to explore the Garden State’s vibrant Korean food scene!
Understanding Korean BBQ and Cuisine
If you’re new to Korean food, you might be wondering what Korean BBQ is all about. Simply put, it’s an interactive dining experience where you grill marinated meats right at your table.
Popular meats include bulgogi (thinly sliced, marinated beef), galbi (marinated short ribs), and samgyeopsal (delicious, fatty pork belly). The best Korean BBQ restaurants will bring out a seemingly endless array of banchan, or side dishes, to accompany your meal. The variety and quality of these little dishes are a sign of a good Korean restaurant.
Beyond BBQ: Exploring other Korean dishes
While Korean BBQ is popular, there’s so much more to Korean cuisine! Be sure to try bibimbap (a bowl of mixed rice with vegetables, meat, and a fried egg), kimchi jjigae (a spicy, fermented kimchi stew), or japchae (glass noodles with stir-fried vegetables and meat).
Also, keep an eye out for regional specialties and variations as you explore different restaurants.
North Jersey: A Hub of Korean Culinary Delights
If you’re looking for delicious Korean food in New Jersey, you’re in luck. North Jersey is packed with fantastic Korean restaurants, from casual spots to high-end BBQ experiences. Here’s a quick guide to get you started.
Casual and Authentic Experiences
- BulgogiZip: Known for its authentic bulgogi in a relaxed setting. Check their website for pricing.
- Koreander: A local favorite with some unique dishes you won’t find anywhere else.
All-You-Can-Eat (AYCE) Korean BBQ
- Cast Iron Pot/Li’s Hot Pot & BBQ: Enjoy the ultimate AYCE experience. They’re also great about providing allergen information. Check their website for pricing.
- The Moon Korean BBQ & Hot Pot: Keep an eye out for their birthday promotions!
Premium Korean BBQ
- WOOGA: Treat yourself to high-end meats, including USDA Prime options. If they have it, don’t miss the Miyazaki Wagyu.
- Hanam BBQ House: A popular spot with a unique atmosphere.
Other Notable Restaurants
There are so many great Korean restaurants in North Jersey, it’s hard to pick just a few! Here are some others to consider:
- Dae Ji Ssonday: Check out their specialty dishes.
- Hancook K-BBQ & Tofu Soup: Don’t miss their tofu soup!
- Jeong Yook: They’re known for their special cuts of meat.
- The Kalbi: You have to try their galbi.
- O2 K-BBQ: A great spot with its own unique features.
- Prime No. 7: Keep an eye out for their special partnerships.
- Woodam Korean BBQ: Another excellent choice with a unique menu.
Central Jersey: Discovering Hidden Gems
Don’t sleep on Central Jersey! This area boasts some excellent Korean restaurants that are well worth a visit.
Korean BBQ Options
- Butcher360: A solid K-BBQ joint, but keep an eye on the clock — they have a time limit.
- NY Korean BBQ: This spot is known for [insert unique feature here, e.g., its extensive selection of banchan or its modern, upscale atmosphere].
- Keumho Garden Korean BBQ: If you’re looking for a place with a nice outdoor setting, Keumho Garden offers [mention garden or outdoor seating area].
Other Korean Restaurants
- Kimchi-Hana: As the name suggests, Kimchi-Hana specializes in kimchi. Be sure to try their [mention kimchi variations or specialties, e.g., aged kimchi stew or white kimchi].
- Seoulville: Seoulville stands out with its [highlight any unique dishes, e.g., creative fusion dishes or hard-to-find traditional Korean meals].
Jersey Shore & South Jersey: Coastal Korean Flavors
Even closer to the coast, you can find some excellent examples of Korean cuisine.
Jersey Shore Korean Restaurants
- KimChi Sushi Korean BBQ: This spot blends Korean and Japanese flavors, giving you the best of both worlds.
- Kimchi Mama: A local favorite, Kimchi Mama is known for its authentic dishes and family recipes.
- Ono Korean Barbeque: Ono offers a modern take on Korean barbecue, with sleek decor and a lively atmosphere.
South Jersey Korean Restaurants
- Dolsot House (Camden County): Don’t miss their dolsot bibimbap, served sizzling hot in a stone bowl.
- Dolsan Korean BBQ (Burlington County): Dolsan is known for its premium cuts of meat and high-quality ingredients. Be prepared to spend a little more, as it’s on the higher end price-wise.
- A Pot KBBQ & Hot Pot: If you’re looking for value, A Pot offers both KBBQ and hot pot at a reasonable price. They even have a children’s discount, making it a great option for families.
Tips for the Best Korean BBQ in New Jersey
Want to make the most of your KBBQ experience? Here are a few tips:
- Take a look at menus and prices online before you go.
- Consider all-you-can-eat (AYCE) options to try lots of different dishes.
- Check the restaurant’s website or ask your server about allergens.
- Make a reservation, especially if you’re planning to visit a popular place.
- Keep an eye on the clock, as some restaurants limit how long you can stay.
Key Takeaways
From Bergen County to Cherry Hill, New Jersey boasts a wide array of Korean restaurants, from upscale dining to casual spots perfect for a quick bite.
Whether you’re craving classic Korean BBQ, the comforting warmth of kimchi jjigae, or the adventurous flavors of Korean street food, there’s something for every palate. Don’t be afraid to explore different regions and styles of Korean cuisine to discover your new favorite dish.
This guide is designed to help you navigate the delicious world of Korean food in New Jersey and find the perfect dining experience for any occasion.