Korean BBQ in San Diego (2025)

A Clairemont Mesa mainstay since 2001, mixing AYCE and a la carte barbecue with homestyle stews and attentive service. Highlighted by Eater San Diego and loved for proper galbi, naengmyeon, and even makgeolli on draft.

Old-school Korean barbecue where charcoal grills deliver deep flavor; reserve a charcoal table. Cited by Eater San Diego and named Best Korean Restaurant by San Diego Magazine in 2025.

A modern showpiece using cone-shaped cast-iron lids called sot to sear wagyu, pork jowl, and seafood. Featured prominently by Eater San Diego’s Convoy and Korean lists; staff finishes with fried rice on the griddle.

South Bay’s ambitious AYCE hybrid from the Common Theory team: buffet meats and banchan meet table-delivered prime cuts. Covered by Eater San Diego and praised by local news for family-friendly value and generous hours.

DIY KBBQ pioneer where you choose meats and vegetables from the line and grill at your table. Respected by the San Diego Reader and beloved by groups for a relaxed, old-school experience.

Mission Valley’s destination for AYCE tiers, sports-bar energy, and crowd-pleasing cuts like brisket and LA galbi. Noted by Eater San Diego at opening and still drawing big groups and late-night diners.

A Convoy stalwart with broad AYCE tiers, familiar cuts, and reliable banchan. Appreciated by locals for value and consistency; the team keeps the focus on classic KBBQ comforts.

Lively AYCE late into the night with abundant sides, steamed egg, and corn cheese. Praised by local diners for quick grill changes and a wide meat selection at fair prices.

Rancho Bernardo’s family-friendly AYCE with lunch specials and quick refills; reviewers note tidy dining rooms and good marinated pork and brisket.

Compact, charcoal-driven Chinese–Korean grill where smoke-kissed steaks and marinated short rib stand out. Regulars praise the real coals, seasoned sides, and earnest service; waits are common but worthwhile.