When you’re looking for the best Korean BBQ in Sydney, it’s hard to go past Dae Jang Kum, Woo Wol, and Seoul Ria Restaurant. However, all the restaurants chosen on our list below are flourishing with ‘cook your own’ premium meats. Choose your favourite sides, Soju drinks, and fall in love with this succulent, flavoursome cuisine with a dining experience perfect for groups. It’s the closest thing you’ll find to the DIY steaks down at the pub from yesteryear!
Best KBBQ in Sydney at a glance
Highlights from our list include the following options:
- Best overall: Dae Jang Kum
- For fine-dining-style: Woo Wol
- For the best selection of meats: Wagyu House Croydon
- For a great drinks menu: Seoul Ria Restaurant
Now we’ve rounded up our favourites, let’s check out the complete list.
1. Woo Wol
Price: $$$ ($40-60 per person)
- Pros: It offers an omakase Japanese dining experience where the chef creates a personalised meal, countless drink options, and a central location.
- Cons: Sides are quite small and limited in terms of options. The atmosphere is sometimes lacking, especially when there are fewer people dining. Not the cheapest place for Korean BBQ.
Quality of meat: At Woo Wol in Sydney’s Chippendale, you will find premium, Wagyu Korean BBQ with lean varieties of soy-marinated beef, pork rib or Wagyu beef and fresh sashimi. The meat is flavorful and the chicken katsu is known for being tender and juicy, every time.
Variety of banchan (sides): Indulge in Chinese-style snacks including sweet and spicy soy dumplings. Opt for a more classic option like Korean bibimbap, which is served two ways, with sashimi or stone pot Wagyu. There is also soup, stews and our personal favourite side dish – corn cheese.
Atmosphere and ambience: Contemporary, refined and understated, Woo Wol doesn’t overdo it any unnecessary theatrics. Located in a modern dining precinct, the clean, refreshing interior provides the ideal backdrop for a Korean BBQ feast. Here, the food is the centre of attention.
Drinks options: We love the Korean soft drinks here, including IDH Pear and Welchs Grape. For something alcoholic, you can find soju, Japanese beer like Asahi, sake, and HwaYo, which is a delicious artisanal premium rice Soju.
Address: Shop 7/6 Central Park Ave, Chippendale NSW 2008
Hours: Mon-Sun 12-4pm & 5-10pm
Phone: 0413 814 806
2. Dae Jang Kum
Price: $$ ($20-40 per person)
- Pros: Great for big groups and those night owls who love a late-night Korean feast. As well as a great dinner menu, they have a delicious lunch menu that adds variety to the restaurant’s offerings.
- Cons: The menu can be overwhelming with so many options. This little Haymarket hot spit is also known to get quite busy.
Quality of meat: Dae Jung Kum offers an impressive variety of meats. No matter your choice, the heat here is always succulent and juicy.
Variety of banchan (sides): They do the sides just as well as the mains here. Choose from dumplings, seafood pancakes and deep-fried prawns, among plenty more. Our go-to is the deep-friend noodle seaweed roll, because you can’t find it anywhere else and because it is delicious.
Atmosphere and ambience: Blending into the Haymarket locale where Dae Jang Kum, the restaurant is unpretentious and cosy. A popular hub for the many students in the area to gather for a meal, it is usually bustling with people and laughter.
Drinks options: This fully licensed restaurant offers all your usual favourites – beer, wine and spirits. You will also find Korean specialties including soju and Korean beer.
Address: 35 Goulburn St, Haymarket NSW 2000
Hours: Mon-Sun 12pm-12am
Phone: (02) 9211 0890
3. Yang San Park
Price: $$ ($20-40 per person)
- Pros: Affordable Korean BBQ in Sydney’s CBD. Plenty of options for side dishes. Meat is fresh and includes all the favourite, typical Korean BBQ varieties.
- Cons: This place gets extremely busy, especially on weekends. Not many meat options on the main menu.
Quality of meat: While the meat options are few, the options that are on the menu are all delicious. Think smokey, delicious marinades and juicy cuts – what more could you ask for?
Variety of banchan (sides): Yang San Park takes pride in offering a diverse selection of banchan. For something a bit different, we love the spicey shallot salad and the steamed egg pot.
Atmosphere and ambience: Nestled within Sydney’s CBD, the space is fairly small which makes for plenty of good vibes. The interior is simple and pared-back – you come to Yang San Park for a feed and good times with mates, not a fine dining experience.
Drinks options: Ever heard of somaek? It’s a shot of soju in a beer and you can get it at Yang San Park and it is delicious. You can also grab a regular beer, rice wine and soju, or you can indulge in a glass of shiraz of Sauvignon Blanc.
Address: Shop 21/1 Dixon St, Sydney NSW 2000
Hours: Mon-Fri 4-10:30 pm, Sat-Sun 12-10:30 pm
4. Jang Ta Bal Strathfield
Price: $$ ($20-40 per person)
- Pros: Great atmosphere and a friendly, community-like feel. The meat is high quality and the drink options are varied and plentiful.
- Cons: This restaurant is a bit out of the way for those in the CBD. Is one of the more expensive options for Korean BBQ in Sydney.
Quality of meat: The quality of the meat here is always premium. The beef is firm and flawlessly cut, while the chicken and pork is juicy, tender and once cooked to perfection.
Variety of banchan (sides): While the banchan at Jang Ta Bal Strathfield is not loaded with options, what’s there is simply delectable. We can’t go past the kimchi pancake, the raw beef salad and the egg soup (don’t judge until you’ve tried it!)
Atmosphere and ambience: This trendy spot has a warehouse vibe, with exposed red brick, timber and dim lighting creating a cosy atmosphere. With long tables and fairy lights, the atmosphere is jovial and festive.
Drinks options: Find all the classic Korean beverages, from soju, rice wine and plum wine – Jang Ta Bal stock pretty much every soju flavour under the sun. You can also BYO if you want to enjoy one of the bottles of wine that have been sitting on the shelf at home for over a month now.
Address: 16 Lyons St, Strathfield NSW 2135
Hours: Mon-Sun 5-11pm
Phone: 0414 799 007
5. Bornga Korean BBQ Restaurant
Price: $$ ($20-40 per person)
- Pros: Offers an intimate dining experience in the heart of Chinatown. The side dishes and veggies can be refilled, unlimited and it is self-service. Great space for large groups and if you have kids.
- Cons: Very strict 90-minute time limit for dining in. The portions for the meat and the side dishes are on the smaller side.
Quality of meat: The fresh, top-level quality of the meat truly stands out here. In particular, the wagyu beef is tender and juicy, and the pork belly is succulent with a crispy skin,
Variety of banchan (sides): Along with rice, noodles and soups, Bornga has some innovative side dishes available that are just as drool-worthy as the meat options. We love the corn cheese dish and the spicy marinated raw crab also hits the spot. You can also enjoy fresh veggies and plenty of kimchi!
Atmosphere and ambience: Housed within a large and contemporary space, Bornga Korean BBQ Restaurant is a refined and sophisticated dining experience. With plenty of space for various separate groups, dining here feels uncluttered and intimate, with private booths also available.
Drinks options: The drinks menu is full of countless Korean soft drinks that are hide to find. If you feel like something alcoholic, there is soju, beer (asahui and tiger are on tap) as well as a few cocktails and classic wine options.
Address: Level 1/78 Harbour St, Haymarket NSW 2000
Hours: Mon-Thur 4:30-10:30pm, Fri-Sun 11:30am-3pm & 4:30-11pm
Phone: 0417 054 555
6. Seoul Ria Restaurant
Price: $$ ($20-40 per person)
- Pros: Great, lively atmosphere and set in a convenient location. A large menu with plenty of vegetarian options too.
- Cons: A popular dining spot, dining here can sometimes feel rushed. With so many options on the menu, the traditional Korean BBQ meal options are overseen.
Quality of meat: The meat here is usually good. In particular, the fried chicken is some of the best we have found on this side of the bridge. The pork belly is also a highlight, deliciously juicy and tender.
Variety of banchan (sides): Seoul Ria Restaurant has so many banchan options that it has a whole dedicated menu. We are obsessed with the miso eggplant, seafood pancake, mushroom pancake and Takoyaki. You can also order spicey chicken feet and spicy chicken feet stew if you’re feeling adventurous.
Atmosphere and ambience: Encapsulating a distinct, industrial-chic aesthetic that pairs so well with the Korean BBQ vibe, Seoul Ria Restaurant is vibrant, moody and full of energy. Long tables mean there is always chatter, laughter and activity – perfect for those who like to dine with lots going on around them.
Drinks options: You will find all your usual Korean favourites including soju, plum wine, rice wine and selected beers. FYI – the apple mango soju is sold here, which can often be hard to find, so we definitely recommend ordering that to drink.
Address: Level 2/605-609 George St, Sydney NSW 2000
Hours: Mon-Sun 12-10pm
Phone: (02) 9269 0222
7. KOGI Korean BBQ
Price: $$$ ($40-60 per person)
- Pros: Large portion sizes and lots of complementary sides mean you won’t be leaving this place feeling hungry!
- Cons: It is a more expensive option compared to other Korean BBQs in Sydney. A strict 90-minute dining limit can make eating here feel rushed.
Quality of meat: As one of the best Korean BBQs in Sydney, Kogi always has excellent quality meats. We usually opt for the Wagyu platter – succulent and tender, it it never disappoints.
Variety of banchan (sides): With all your usual banchan options, we can’t complain of any food shortages here. The kimchi fried rice with egg, the corn cheese and the old-school lunch box are our favourite options. They also provide complementary salads with every BBQ ordered.
Atmosphere and ambience: Refined and elegant, KOGI is where you come if you’re in the mood for an elevated Korean BBQ dining experience. The interior is dark and moody, perfect for date night.
Drinks options: Soju, beer and rice wine available. Soju is only available by the bottle, no sets are available.
Located in: Market City
Address: Level 3 Market City, 9/13 Hay St, Haymarket NSW 2000
Hours: Tue-Thur 5-10pm, Fri-Sun 12-3pm & 5-11pm
Phone: 0412 054 339
8. Wagyu House Croydon
Price: $$ (from $40 per person)
- Pros: Great for large groups. Lots of variety on the menu, which is perfect for those who have never tried Korean BBQ. Free can of soft drink or beer for each paid diner.
- Cons: Difficult to find parking. It gets very busy on the weekend.
Quality of meat: Known for freshness, meat quality is consistently good. The beef comes in thick slices, and the chicken and pork are tender.
Variety of banchan (sides): These guys know no limits when it comes to side dishes, serving up a variety of condiments, salads and sauces. They even serve sushi, fresh fruit and soft-serve ice cream.
Atmosphere and ambience: Wagyu House in Croydon has a fairly simple interior, but it feels laid-back, warm and inviting. Plus, there is outdoor seating available which always makes for a nice setting on a balmy night or for a sunny lunchtime meal.
Drinks options: Cocktails – say no more. One of the few Korean BBQ restaurants to serve cocktails, they also have beer, soju and rice wine.
Address: 668-670 Parramatta Rd, Croydon NSW 2132
Hours: Mon & Weds 5-10pm, Thurs 4-10pm, Fri-Sat 12-10:30pm, Sun 12-10pm
Phone: 0437 711 774
9. BBQ City Buffet
Price: $$ ($20-40 per person)
- Pros: Indulge in the all-you-can-eat menu. As well as plenty of meat dishes, lots of vegetarian dishes are also served. Ice cream is also available for dessert!
- Cons: Can feel lacking in atmosphere at certain times. It often gets smokey due to poor ventilation and the floors also get quite sticky.
Quality of meat: While the beef can be a bit tough at times, the seafood, chicken and pork and delicious and high quality. All meat options are very fresh.
Variety of banchan (sides): You can order pretty much any side dish you could imagine. Think chips, salad, fried rice, corn cheese and of course, kimchi. You can a
Atmosphere and ambience: This casual eatery is spacious and unpretentious. It doesn’t usually get too crowded, so dining here is a calm, laid-back experience.
Drinks options: Not only do you get a free soft drink provided with your meal, but you can also choose from beer, soju and wine.
Located in: Little Saigon Plaza Bankstown
Address: Little Saigon Plaza, Level 5/462 Chapel Rd, Bankstown NSW 2200
Hours: Mon-Sun 11am-3pm, & 4:30-10pm
Phone: (02) 8739 1697
10. Kangnam BBQ Hornsby
Price: $$ ($20-40 per person)
- Pros: A jack of all trades, known for efficient service and a large menu with plenty of options to cater to all tastes. Portion sizes are decent and high-quality meat is always guaranteed.
- Cons: Don’t provide a large amount of dipping sauce, so you will usually need to ask for more. No bookings can be made for non-BBQ tables.
Quality of meat: The freshness of their pork belly and the quality of their beef always leaves us feeling full and satisfied. The fried chicken is juicy and crispy, and all the meat is fresh.
Variety of banchan (sides): Serving over 10 free side dishes made fresh each morning, indulge in the likes of kimchi, lettuce salad with black sesame dressing, mashed potatoes and many more.
Atmosphere and ambience: Nestled on Sydney’s upper north shore, Kangnam BBQ in Hornsby is a cosy spot for a mid-week meal or weekend get-together with friends. The outdoor seating is a highlight, and the long tables and bright lighting create a vibrant atmosphere.
Drinks options: The usual Korean drinks are found on the menu, like soju and rice wine. They also serve all your favourite beer and wine.
Located in: Westfield Hornsby
Address: Shop R2/236 Pacific Hwy, Hornsby NSW 2077
Hours: Mon-Sun 11am-10pm
Phone: (02) 9482 8818
11. GBG Korean BBQ Buffet
Price: $$ ($20-40 per person)
- Pros: Affordable menu and good vibes. The all-you-can-eat, buffet-style menu is also always a good idea.
- Cons: The banchan can overtake the meat options. Not many seafood options are available on the menu.
Quality of meat: Meat is lean where it needs to be, crunchy where it counts and always fresh. The usual cuts including beef ribs, pork belly and steak cuts as well as pork jowl, ox intestines, and intercostal strips are always the best quality.
Variety of banchan (sides): With 12 different kinds of banchan available and a constantly rotating selection of seasonal offerings, GBG Korean BBQ Buffet knows how to do banchan. Choose from pickled cucumber in chilli paste, soy-glazed potatoes, kimchi, greens imported from Korea and pickled shallots, among plenty more.
Atmosphere and ambience: The warehouse-style restaurant is cosy and eclectic. With plants lining the ceiling, private booths and long tables, GBG Korean BBQ Buffet really does have it all.
Drinks options: Pair your meal with a soju or a beer. This place is particularly loved by soju-lovers, as they sell most flavours.
Address: 1031 Victoria Rd, West Ryde NSW 2114
Hours: Mon-Sun 5:30-10pm
Phone: 0456 989 888
12. 789 Korean BBQ Darling Square
Price: $$ ($20-40 per person)
- Pros: Great for a quick Korean BBQ meal when you’re on the go. Also, you get a free steamed egg with every order, which is always a nice surprise.
- Cons: Small portions for the price you pay. Not much variety of banchan. It is also walk-in only, so sometimes you will have to wait.
Quality of meat: The meat is always of high quality. It is juicy, tender and cut to perfection.
Variety of banchan (sides): While there aren’t too many banchan options, the ones they do have are delicious. Try the seafood pancake, egg soup, or assorted vegetable platter.
Atmosphere and ambience: While the interior is fairly simple, there is something about 789 Korean BBQ that feels authentic, effortlessly transporting you to a back lane in Seoul. It is intimate and cosy, with a communal feeling throughout.
Drinks options: For liquor, choose from flavoured soju, plum wine, and beer. They also serve a variety of Korean drinks, including shikhye, bongbong Korean grape juice, and coco palm grapefruit drink.
Located in: Darling Square
Address: Shop 4/35 Tumbalong Bvd, Haymarket NSW 2000
Hours: Sun-Thur 12-11pm, Fri-Sat 12pm-12am
Alternatives To These Korean BBQ Restaurants in Sydney
We’ve narrowed our list down to those options that we consider the utmost best of the best. However, there are a few other spots worthy of a shoutout, they include:
- Danjee Korean Restaurant in Sydney CBD: This Korean BBQ restaurant goes all out in terms of presentation and quality of meat cuts. For reference, a danjee is the container in which fermented food is made, representing their commitment to traditional cooking. The restaurant also offers fusion dishes to ensure every palate will be satisfied. The menu is full of delectable meats, soups, stews, noodles and scrumptious sides making it a must-visit on our list of the best Korean BBQ Sydney offers.
- Se Jong Korean BBQ in Carlingford: For group and family dinners, Se Jong Korean BBQ Buffet offers exceptional food at affordable prices. There’s often a long line out the front, so be sure to book in advance to avoid disappointment. There’s a wide range of authentic Korean BBQ dishes to choose from to ensure every person on the table finds a dish (or ten) of their choice.
- Myung Jang and Obaltan Restaurant in Sydney CBD: Rustic and eclectic, this hole-in-the-wall Korean BBQ restaurant makes you feel like you’re dining in a bustling lane in Seoul. The authentic, lively atmosphere and cosy interior are the perfect spot for a night out in Sydney. You can taste the freshness of the meat, especially the seafood. The fried chicken deserves a shoutout, too – it is perfectly crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. The banchan offered is excellent and topped up regularly, with lots of sauces and fresh vegetables available. We especially love the seafood pancake. Expect traditional Korean drink options as well as beer, white wine and red wine. We usually grab a beer when we come here, as they have a lot of different (and some unusual) beer options on the drinks menu.
- Arisun in Haymarket: One of the best Korean BBQs in Sydney for a bustling vibe in the heart of Chinatown, the outdoor seating is perfect for people-watching on the busy street. Inside, it is simple and spacious. The meat selection is fresh and tender. In particular, the Korean fried chicken is crispy, juicy, and bursting with flavour, while the pork belly is always perfectly cooked and delightfully balanced in textures. There are lots of banchan options to choose from. We love indulging in the fries, dumplings, Takoyaki, rice balls, sashimi and our personal favourite – the crispy lotus fries with aioli. As far as drinks are concerned, there’s a range of Korean and Japanese alcohol, as well as soft drinks and cocktails alongside tap beers.
If you think there’s a Korean BBQ restaurant we should test for a spot on this list, please contact us via our contact form.
How Man of Many Chose the Best Korean BBQ in Sydney
With an office situated right in the heart of Sydney and a team of keen foodies, the team at Man of Many has had the chance to sample the best Korean BBQ in Sydney. Where they haven’t had a chance to visit, they’ve turned to food critics and expert reviews in compiling their list. Man of Many’s editors have taken into account, price points, opening times, and food choices, while also making a concerted effort to highlight a few brunch spots outside the CBD. If there’s a KBBQ spot you think we should check out, get in contact. Now, let’s check out the list below.
Korean BBQ in Sydney FAQs
Korean BBQ differs from traditional backyard BBQ by serving up smaller cuts of beef, pork, chicken or seafood cooked on gas or charcoal grills built into the centre of the table. In a way, guests cook their own meats.
Some great starting places include grilled pork belly, ddeokbokki (spicy korean rice cakes), bibimbap (steamed rice with meat, vegetables and fried egg), kimchi (fermented cabbage), galbi (beef short ribs marinated in garlic soy sauce) and Korean seafood pancake.
A Korean dish served as a bowl of warm white rice topped with seasoned vegetables, chilli paste, soy sauce, a raw or fried egg and sliced meat. The hot dish is stirred together thoroughly just before eating.
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