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Published on May 10, 2023
16 Best South Bay Korean BBQ spots to eat bulgogi in San Jose, Sunnyvale & the rest of Silicon Valley

Korean BBQ, for those in the know, is a special and often reasonably priced treat. KBBQ, as it's sometimes called, is a an experience that invites foodies to participate in long-standing culinary traditions. A unique combination of delicious marinated meats, a variety of banchan (side dishes), and a choose-your-own-adventure self-cooking experience, Korean barbeque has it all wrapped up in a fun, interactive time at your table. What makes Korean BBQ special goes beyond the sweet and savory flavors but the warm, communal — and often boisterous — atmosphere it fosters among friends and family.

Whether in San Jose, Palo Alto, Santa Clara, Sunnyvale, and other parts of the South Bay, the region has experienced ongoing growth in its Korean population, and this contributes to a renewed sense of refinement in many Korean food establishments. Surely, demand for delicious, innovative, and authentic Korean experiences has been on the rise across the country, allowing for a competitive landscape to emerge among Korean BBQ restaurants. As an eater and not a cook, this only means that there are more and more amazing options to try here in the South Bay.


10 Butchers Korean BBQ

Top Korean Barbeque in Silicon Valley

10 Butchers Korean BBQ offers a first-rate dining experience for Korean barbecue lovers. The restaurant features a unique setting where guests can grill their own meat on tabletop grills, ensuring exceptional quality with various cuts and marinades to select from. Apart from their remarkable barbecue options, the menu also boasts an assortment of delectable Korean dishes such as bibimbap, japchae, and kimchi fried rice, elegantly presented and packed with flavor. The staff at 10 Butchers Korean BBQ are friendly and attentive, providing assistance with grilling and delivering an enjoyable dining experience. The restaurant's modern and stylish decor adds an upscale touch, making it an ideal spot for a casual meal with friends or family, located in Sunnyvale. Among the many delightful menu choices, the marinated bone-in short rib stands out as a crowd favorite due to its tenderness and heavenly flavor. However, it's worth noting that the prices here are on the higher side, but the exceptional quality of the food and overall dining experience make a visit well worth it. 

Visit WebsiteCall: 4087208889
595 E El Camino Real, Sunnyvale, CA 94087, United States

Yakini Q SJ

Delicious KBBQ in Silicon Valley

Yakini Q SJ offers an unforgettable all-you-can-eat Korean BBQ experience, perfect for groups and cozy date nights alike. Patrons rave about their premium meat options, with the boneless short rib and bulgogi emerging as two of the absolute favorites, the attentive service ensures that grills are changed regularly and side dishes are refilled in a timely manner, making the ambiance all the more enjoyable. Accompanied by an array of delectable sides, such as cheese corn, japchae noodles, and spicy rice cakes, the menu can sometimes feel overwhelming but certainly caters for every craving one might have. Though situated in San Jose, the top-notch food and inviting atmosphere at Yakini Q SJ make it worth the visit regardless of your location.

Visit WebsiteCall: 4082932668
1783 W San Carlos St, San Jose, CA 95128, United States

Goku Korean BBQ & Hot Pot

Amazing Silicon Valley Korean BBQ

Goku Korean BBQ & Hot Pot, located in San Jose, offers a unique dining experience with all-you-can-eat options for both Korean BBQ and hot pot. With a vibrant atmosphere and delicious food, customers are drawn to their selection of quality meats and flavorful marinades, making it a popular spot for gatherings and celebrations. It's hard to go wrong with their tender spicy chicken, garlic marinated meats, and succulent finger ribs which are often crowd favorites. However, some might not be impressed with their hot pot soup base selection, and yet the attentive service and friendly staff will keep you coming back for more. One thing to keep in mind is the chilly temperature inside; so be prepared for a bit of a frosty experience, nevertheless, the wide variety of dishes on offer and the entertaining ambiance make this restaurant a must-try for lovers of Korean BBQ and hot pot alike.

Visit WebsiteCall: 4087843228
3085 Meridian Ave, San Jose, CA 95124, United States

HoM Korean Kitchen

Best Korean Barbeque in Silicon Valley

HoM Korean Kitchen is a gem, offering scrumptious Korean cuisine to satisfy diverse taste buds. Their build-your-own bowl approach allows the customers for max customization, ensuring every meal fits their preferences. Famed for its Firecracker Pork and BBQ Chicken dishes, this eatery guarantees a delightful experience. Patrons can also indulge in their banchans such as kimchi, bean sprouts, and more, all prepared with great attention to detail. Service is prompt and friendly making your dining experience here a memorable one, a student discount is also available for those flashing their student IDs. This vibrant destination sure hits the spot for flavorful Korean fare in a welcoming atmosphere.

Visit WebsiteCall: 4087034777
76 E Santa Clara St, San Jose, CA 95113, United States

Omogari

Delicious San Jose - Sunnyvale - Etc Korean BBQ

Omogari is a delightful Korean restaurant nestled in the heart of San Jose, offering an extensive and flavorful menu to satisfy your cravings. The cozy ambiance and warm service make this a perfect spot for date nights, small group gatherings, or a casual family meal. Among the numerous mouth-watering options, the meat jun stands out as a popular favorite, featuring tender meat encased in a light and crispy batter. The japchae and galbi are also highly praised, with customers raving about their exquisite taste and generous portions the banchan served alongside the main dishes lend a delightful touch of authenticity, and enjoying a refreshing peach soju to wash down your meal is strongly recommended by many who have dined at this hidden gem.

Visit WebsiteCall: 4082888134
154 Jackson St, San Jose, CA 95112, United States

QPOT

Amazing KBBQ in Silicon Valley

QPOT offers an all-you-can-eat Korean BBQ and hot pot experience, boasting a substantial variety of meats, vegetables, and flavorful soup bases. The stunning interiors and lively atmosphere, make for an entertaining dining experience with family and friends. With an affordable price of $30 for BBQ or hot pot and just an additional $5 to combine both, you can expect great value for your money. The spacious, Instagram-worthy restaurant is known for its generous portions, attentive service, and a delightful sauce bar that features a wide selection of dipping sauces, toppings, and Japanese cheesecake. A popular choice among diners, the spicy pork and garlic pork belly are a must-try, while the refreshing strawberry and mango mix soju serves as the perfect accompaniment to the delicious BBQ. Experience a memorable and unique culinary journey at QPOT, where every visit leaves you wanting more!

Visit WebsiteCall: 4088190554
1610 Capitol Expy, San Jose, CA 95121

Gen Korean BBQ House

Top Silicon Valley Korean BBQ

Gen Korean BBQ House's dining experience is both exciting and delicious, with its mouthwatering all-you-can-eat Korean barbecue options. Despite being a popular choice for patrons, the attentive staff does their best to serve the bustling restaurant efficiently, making for a satisfying experience. The high-quality meats will keep you craving for more as you enjoy the variety provided, with favorites such as the Red Wine Pork Belly and the marinated Beef Bulgogi. However, the most remarkable item on the menu has to be the squid 'steak', which adds a unique twist to your ordinary Korean BBQ offerings. While the ambiance might be a bit hectic at times, the delectable cuisine and unique dishes make Gen Korean BBQ House worth a visit for a flavorful and memorable experience.

Visit WebsiteCall: 4084772773
1628 Hostetter Rd f, San Jose, CA 95131, United States

Mina's Korean BBQ

Delicious KBBQ in Silicon Valley

Mina's Korean BBQ is a family-owned restaurant that truly shines with its flavorful dishes and heartwarming atmosphere. The staff, consisting primarily of Korean grandmas, greets you warmly as you enter the restaurant and attend to your needs with much care and professionalism. Among the delicious items on the extensive menu, the tender galbi seems to be a crowd favorite, reminding some of their mom's home cooking. The seafood tofu soup, jab chae, and koon man du (fried dumplings) are also well-loved by visitors. With generous portions and reasonable pricing, Mina's Korean BBQ is definitely a hidden gem worth exploring. In San Jose, the restaurant enjoys a convenient location with plenty of parking nearby making it a must-visit spot for authentic Korean food lovers, and I just can't emphasize enough how amazing the banchan selection is, each dish exceeds expectations.

Visit WebsiteCall: 4084332270
3730 N First St, San Jose, CA 95134, United States

Bibimbowl

Amazing Silicon Valley Korean BBQ

Bibimbowl is an inviting and cozy restaurant offering tasty Korean cuisine with a modern twist. Known for their fantastic service and high-quality dishes, this eatery provides a unique, quick, and satisfying dining experience. One of the standout items on the menu would without a doubt be their popular hot stone bibimbap bowl, brimming with assorted vegetables, perfectly cooked rice, and topped with tender meat or tofu, to personalize making it a must-try for anyone seeking a hearty meal. Moreover, diners can expect each sauce to be extraordinarily flavorful, without being overwhelmingly spicy, ensuring that everyone can find a taste they'll love. The ambiance is clean and comfortable, making it the ideal spot for a quick dinner or catching up with friends if you happen to be in Sunnyvale. Don't miss out on the delicious chicken bento lunch special, which includes meat, rice, japchae, pickled cucumbers, kimchi, two fried mandu, and a bowl of miso soup, it’s a true testament to the quality and variety offered at Bibimbowl.

Visit WebsiteCall: 4084819383
415 N Mary Ave Unit 107, Sunnyvale, CA 94085, United States

SGD Tofu House San Jose

Best Korean Barbeque in Silicon Valley

At SGD Tofu House San Jose, indulge in a satisfying Korean dining experience, featuring a variety of authentic dishes made with high-quality ingredients. The restaurant is known for its satisfying tofu soups, wide selection of banchan (complimentary side dishes), delectable barbecue dishes, and friendly service provided in a warm, casual ambiance. Among the must-try items is the seafood pancake and fried dumplings, which are filled with flavor and have become favorites among patrons. Parking is plentiful, making it a convenient choice for a fulfilling meal, this restaurant offers an enjoyable dining experience in a comfortable atmosphere, perfect for large groups, families or a cozy soirée for couples to create memories over delicious Korean food.

Visit WebsiteCall: 4082278583
832 Blossom Hill Rd, San Jose, CA 95123, United States

Yummy Tofu and BBQ

Delicious San Jose - Sunnyvale - Etc Korean BBQ

Yummy Tofu and BBQ is a hidden gem, offering a cozy atmosphere and a variety of satisfying Korean dishes to delight your taste buds. The restaurant may have a small space and basic decor, but the flavorful dishes make up for it. Among the popular items are the delectable duk mandu guk, exceptional daeji bulgogi, and the mouthwatering bimbimbap. The seafood pancake is a must-try, crispy and full of fresh veggies and seafood, it's unlike any other you might have tasted before. To make the experience even better, the assortment of banchan served alongside the main dishes add a delightful variety of flavors and textures to your meal. Although the service might not be the most attentive, the quality and taste of the food will certainly bring you back for more of, their soon du bu which is the star of the menu.

Visit WebsiteCall: 4089841898
1310 Saratoga Ave, San Jose, CA 95129, United States

Hanul Korean Food Corner

Amazing KBBQ in Silicon Valley

Hanul Korean Food Corner, a hidden gem for food enthusiasts, provides a cozy atmosphere where you can enjoy authentic Korean cuisine in South San Jose. They are particularly known for their homemade kimchi, exuding a fresh and delightful flavor that captivates customers. The friendly owner never fails to leave an impression on first-time visitors, offering personalized recommendations to cater to individual tastes along with humor and warmth. Among the array of delectable dishes, the popular dolsot bibimbap, served in a hot stone bowl and seafood pancake, creates a must-try experience for anyone seeking comfort in a Korean meal. Relish the scrumptious food, fair prices, and generous portions at Hanul Korean Food Corner, making every visit a memorable one despite a subtle improper use in one of the articles.

Visit WebsiteCall: 4086132760
6041 Snell Ave, San Jose, CA 95123, United States

Khan Shabu Shabu & BBQ - TAKE OUT & DELIVERY

Top Silicon Valley Korean BBQ

Khan Shabu Shabu & BBQ is a wonderful dining destination for lovers of Korean cuisine, offering an all-you-can-eat experience with an extensive range of delicious meats, side dishes, and desserts. This unique restaurant features a large self-serve buffet-style presentation, giving guests the freedom to choose from an exciting selection of proteins, such as marinated octopus, beef ribs, shrimp, and fish filets, perfect for grilling or hot pot. To, truly indulge in their offerings, try the delectable jokbal set, which comes with a generous portion of juicy, flavorful pig's feet in both regular and spicy options. Enjoy the convenience of grabbing your own banchan, and please your sweet tooth with the dessert section's shaved ice with an array of toppings. Although located in Sunnyvale, the fantastic service, reasonable prices, and delightful atmosphere ensure a satisfying experience and will keep you coming back for more.

Visit WebsiteCall: 4087730100
1010 E El Camino Real, Sunnyvale, CA 94087, United States

Enjoy Seoul Restaurant

Delicious KBBQ in Silicon Valley

Enjoy Seoul Restaurant's fusion of Japanese and Korean dishes caters to diverse tastes and provides a modern and colorful interior to create an inviting atmosphere. The restaurant provides indoor and outdoor seating options, with the tables well-spaced and hand sanitizers at each table, which makes diners feel safe while enjoying their meal.\n\nOne of the standout dishes from this delicious eatery is their tofu soup, which comes with fresh, delectable banchan, and their spicy beef tofu soup has gained quite a reputation for its bold, mouthwatering flavors. Another favorite is the crispy rice appetizer, a wonderful blend of textures, from the crispy outer layer to the soft rice inside, topped with fish roe for an exciting burst of taste. Besides that, Enjoy Seoul also offers a Budae Jigae or Korean army stew, and an array of sushi rolls for those seeking a taste of Japan. The attentive service, appealing ambiance, and the delightful selection of dishes ensure this restaurant a must-try spot for anyone craving a satisfying meal.

Visit WebsiteCall: 4088851298
979 Story Rd, San Jose, CA 95122, United States

Hankki House

Amazing Silicon Valley Korean BBQ

Hankki House offers a delightful dining experience for those craving authentic Korean cuisine, the cozy atmosphere and pleasant decor create an inviting ambience for casual dining or family outings. Diners can expect a mouthwatering selection of dishes, from the perfectly crispy and tender Chicken Katsu Plate to the satisfyingly seasoned Beef Bulgogi Plate. One of the standout dishes, Spicy Pork Bulgogi, truly tantalizes the taste buds and, is a must-try for both regulars and newcomers alike. The dedicated staff at Hankki House is attentive and friendly, making sure every guest is well taken care of and leaving them eager to return for another delectable meal in San Jose.

Visit WebsiteCall: 4083001595
125 Bernal Rd #60, San Jose, CA 95119, United States

Danbi Korean Restaurant

Best Korean Barbeque in Silicon Valley

Danbi Korean Restaurant is a cozy spot where you can enjoy delicious and authentic Korean dishes in a casual setting with ample parking available. With their clean environment and friendly staff, you can always look forward to an excellent dining experience here. Some of the most popular and highly recommended items on the menu include the flavorful Meat Jun, the satisfying Budae Jjigae, and the mouthwatering Beef Tofu Soup. If you're ever in San Jose and craving for some Korean food, Danbi is a great choice and you will definitely want to try their signature dishes, though it is important to note, that their prices might be on the higher side but the quality and taste of the food make up for it.

Visit WebsiteCall: 6692925595
1092 N First St, San Jose, CA 95112, United States

BE.STEAK.A

Amazing South Bay Steak Restaurants

In the culinary realm of dining establishments, Be.Steak.A boasts a unique charm, situated at the far corner of the Pruneyard, where patrons are enchanted with a cozy outdoor patio that welcomes their beloved dogs. The moment you step inside, the delightful aromas of the exhibition kitchen waft through the air, tantalizing your senses, and the esteemed staff attends to your every need with precision and dedication, especially Paul, the exceptional server who exemplifies the art of menu introduction and explanations. However, it is truly the delectable offerings that leave an indelible impression on one's palate, from the sumptuous crab cake, bone marrow workshop, yam stone, and T-bone, to the heavenly prime rib, a dish so tender and succulent it beckons you to return with friends and family for another once in a lifetime dining experience, all while basking in the charming ambience and savoring each and every exquisite morsel Be.Steak.A has to offer.

Visit WebsiteCall: 4089632092
1887 S Bascom Ave. Campbell, CA 95008