7 Korean BBQ Orders You’ll Regret and 5 You’ll Love Every Time

Korean BBQ is an adventure filled with sizzling sounds and savory aromas, but not all orders are created equal. Some dishes might leave you wanting more excitement, while others become instant favorites. We’ve curated a list of seven regrets and five beloved staples for an unforgettable Korean BBQ experience. Whether you’re a seasoned grill master or a curious first-timer, this guide will help you navigate the tasty yet treacherous world of Korean BBQ.

1. Marinated Chicken Thighs (Too Saucy to Sear)

Marinated chicken thighs might sound tempting, but their sweet marinade can quickly become a grilling nightmare. The sauce tends to burn fast, sticking stubbornly to the grates and leaving behind more mess than meat. This often leads to charred pieces that lack the juicy allure you were hoping for.

If you’re not careful, managing these thighs can feel like a juggling act. You’ll find yourself scraping off more sauce than savoring the chicken itself. For those who prefer a cleaner grill and a more flavorful bite, this is one dish best left unordered.

2. Pre-Cooked Bulgogi on a Hot Plate

Imagine the promise of bulgogi’s rich flavors, only to find your order served on a hot plate with none of the excitement. Pre-cooked bulgogi lacks the sizzling allure that makes this dish a favorite. Instead of layers of flavor building on the grill, you’re left with reheated meat devoid of its signature depth.

This approach robs bulgogi of its interactive appeal, turning a lively dish into a mundane meal. Without the grill’s transformative heat, even the best marinade falls flat. Opt for freshly grilled bulgogi to capture its delicious potential.

3. Seafood Medley

The allure of a seafood medley entices with promises of oceanic delight, but reality often disappoints. Squid, shrimp, and scallops sound appealing yet are notorious for overcooking within seconds, turning tantalizing textures into rubbery resistance.

Blink, and your perfectly timed flip is missed, leaving you with chewy remnants instead of tender treasures. Navigating the fine line between perfection and mishap can be tricky. For those unprepared for the challenge, this medley may transform from a culinary adventure into an unwanted regret.

4. Beef Brisket (Too Thin, Too Fast)

Ultra-thin beef brisket may seem like a quick win, but its speed is often its downfall. These slices cook in the blink of an eye, barely allowing time for a flip before dryness sets in. Instead of juicy bites, you’re left wrestling with parched pieces that fail to satisfy.

The constant flipping becomes more chore than choreographed dance, and the brisket’s delicate balance is easily upset. To savor brisket’s rich potential, consider thicker cuts that promise a more rewarding grilling experience.

5. Pork Jowl (Hangjeongsal)

Pork jowl, or hangjeongsal, is the trendy choice that challenges even seasoned grillers. Its fatty allure promises flavor, but its chewy nature demands skill. Without adept handling, the satisfying crispness turns into a struggle with texture.

This cut needs careful attention to balance its rich fat and meat. When done right, hangjeongsal is a delight; done wrong, it leaves the diner dissatisfied. For those lacking the confidence in their grilling finesse, other options might be more rewarding and less risky.

6. Duck Breast

Duck breast is an intriguing option, offering a promise of rich flavors when cooked correctly. However, its tendency to remain greasy and gamey when mishandled can disappoint. Achieving a perfectly crispy exterior without drying out the meat is a delicate art.

The wrong approach results in an unpleasantly oily experience instead of the anticipated culinary delight. For those who crave a more predictable and less challenging option, duck breast might be best enjoyed at the hands of a seasoned chef.

7. Vegetable Platter Add-On

The vegetable platter add-on often seems like a healthy choice at a meat-heavy feast. However, its potential is frequently overshadowed. With all focus on the grill’s sizzling meats, vegetables are left to languish, forgotten and underappreciated.

The result is often a lackluster accompaniment that fails to shine amidst the main event. Despite their nutritional appeal, these veggies rarely steal the spotlight, leaving diners to wonder if they were worth the order. For those seeking a more balanced experience, integrating vegetables more thoughtfully might be key.

8. Galbi (Marinated Short Ribs)

Galbi, the marinated short ribs, reign supreme in the realm of Korean BBQ. This dish stands out with its sweet and savory allure, enhanced by the bone-in cut that promises rich flavor. As the ribs sizzle on the grill, they release a mouth-watering aroma that captivates diners.

The perfect marriage of marinade and meat creates a tender bite every time, making galbi a beloved staple. For those searching for a sure-fire hit, galbi delivers on its promise of satisfaction and culinary delight.

9. Samgyeopsal (Pork Belly)

Samgyeopsal, or pork belly, is a crowd-pleaser that never fails to impress. Thick slices are grilled until crispy, then wrapped in lettuce with ssamjang and garlic, creating a rich and satisfying bite. This dish offers a delightful balance of textures and flavors.

The experience of assembling each wrap enhances its appeal, turning dining into an interactive and flavorful journey. For those looking to indulge in Korean BBQ’s best offerings, samgyeopsal is an essential order that consistently pleases the palate.

10. Chadolbaegi (Beef Brisket, Thin-Cut—but Done Right)

Chadolbaegi, when done right, is a testament to the art of Korean BBQ. These thin slices of beef brisket cook rapidly, but their beefy flavor remains intact if seared just right. The key is not overcooking, allowing the meat to retain its juicy essence.

Searing, dipping, and eating immediately maximizes enjoyment, offering a burst of flavor in each bite. For those who master this delicate dance, chadolbaegi is an unforgettable experience that keeps diners coming back for more.

11. LA Galbi

LA Galbi is a fusion favorite, combining Korean flavors with American flair. These flanken-style short ribs are marinated in a blend of soy, pear, and garlic, creating a unique taste that delights the senses. Quick to cook, they offer an accessible entry into the world of Korean BBQ.

Their consistent success stems from their simple preparation and robust flavor. For anyone seeking a fail-proof dish, LA Galbi is a delightful choice that marries tradition with modernity in each bite.

12. Spicy Pork Bulgogi (Dwaeji Bulgogi)

Dwaeji Bulgogi, or spicy pork bulgogi, brings a fiery twist to the BBQ scene. Marinated in gochujang, garlic, and chili, this dish offers a smoky, spicy profile that caramelizes beautifully on the grill. Its vibrant red color signals the bold flavors that await.

A total crowd favorite, each bite delivers a satisfying kick, balancing heat with savory undertones. For those who enjoy a bit of spice in their culinary journey, dwaeji bulgogi is an electrifying choice that leaves a lasting impression.