Korean Food in Beijing: BBQ and Ordering
For Korean barbecue in Beijing, start with one meat set, a cooked side and water for the table.
Wangjing has many Korean dining options, but compare the menu, meat weight and grill charge before ordering.
At a glance
- Area to explore: Wangjing, known for Korean restaurants.
- First order: a meat set, banchan and one rice or soup dish.
- Ask first: minimum order, grill service, refill rules and food allergens.
Where should you eat?
Choose a restaurant in Wangjing or near your Beijing sightseeing route rather than crossing the city only for a famous name. Check the current address and recent menu photos.
A staffed grill is helpful for first timers. Pair the meal with a route from Beijing attractions if you have a full day in town.
How do you read the menu and price?
Check whether beef or pork is sold by plate, set or weight. A picture of a large platter may represent a multi person order, not one portion.
Ask whether charcoal, lettuce, sauces or side dishes cost extra. Some banchan are refillable, but that is a restaurant policy, not a guarantee.
What is good to order first?
For two diners, one barbecue set plus rice or kimchi jjigae is a clear starting point. Add a second meat only after you see the first serving size.
Wrap cooked meat in lettuce with a small amount of sauce. Keep raw meat tongs separate from ready to eat food; a server may manage the grill for you.
When should you go, and how long?
Allow 60 to 90 minutes for a relaxed grill meal. Dinner on Friday or Saturday often needs a reservation or a wait.
If your party dislikes smoke, choose a kitchen cooked dish such as bibimbap or soup. For another Beijing evening, see Houhai's lake neighborhood.
Which ordering mistakes are common?
Do not assume kimchi or sauces are free of seafood, sesame, soy or wheat. Show the kitchen a written allergy note before ordering.
Do not fill the grill with every cut at once. Cook each plate properly, and ask staff for help with unfamiliar equipment.
FAQ: What else should you know?
Is Korean barbecue always beef?
No. Menus may include pork, chicken, seafood and vegetarian cooked dishes. Check the exact item and cooking surface.
Are side dishes free?
Often some banchan come with a meal, but refill and service rules vary. Ask before requesting more.
Can I eat alone?
Yes, although some grill sets have a minimum order. Soups, rice dishes and noodles are easier solo options.
Plan this route with Vipbest: Explore the related itineraries.
