Jose A.
Yelp
Ambiance and Decor:
HK BBQ Masters is not a place you visit for its ambiance. Tucked away beneath a Superstore, this small restaurant prioritizes function over form, catering to a high volume of customers with quick turnover. The decor is minimalistic, with a clear focus on efficiency and longevity rather than aesthetic appeal. Half the space is designated for dine-in customers, while the other half serves the take-out crowd. The lingering presence of COVID-era plexiglass partitions raises questions--are they for customer hygiene, or to protect the staff handling the food? This detail adds an element of uncertainty about the overall cleanliness of the establishment.
Service Quality:
Service at HK BBQ Masters is brisk and to the point. The staff waste no time with pleasantries, swiftly taking orders from the large TV menus. I ordered a whole roasted duck, 2 lbs of roasted pork, and a side of steamed vegetables. A critical detail to note: this is a CASH ONLY establishment, so come prepared with cash. The staff's efficiency is evident, but the lack of warmth in their interactions can be off-putting.
Menu Variety:
The menu offers a solid selection of Chinese BBQ staples--pork, duck, and chicken. You can buy the meats individually or as part of a meal served over a bed of freshly cooked white rice. An essential addition to any order is the green onion-ginger oil, which enhances the meat's flavor with a touch of saltiness. The variety is sufficient to satisfy both regulars and first-time visitors.
Food Presentation:
The presentation of the food is straightforward and unpretentious. The chef/butcher skillfully slices the meat into manageable pieces, showcasing their expertise. However, when I asked for my roasted duck to be cut, I was rudely informed that it couldn't be done because it was too hot from the oven. The brusque manner in which this was communicated left a sour taste, making me feel unwelcome and questioning their customer service approach.
Food Taste and Quality:
Despite the service hiccups, the food quality at HK BBQ Masters is undeniably impressive. After taking my meal home and cutting the duck myself, I found the meat to be exceptionally juicy, tender, and well-seasoned. The flavours were robust and satisfying, living up to the restaurant's reputation and justifying the 20 to 30-minute wait time. The roasted pork was equally delicious, with a perfect balance of crispy skin and succulent meat.
Price and Value:
HK BBQ Masters is on the pricier side compared to other Chinese BBQ spots in Metro Vancouver. However, the taste and quality of the food align with their pricing strategy, making it a worthwhile indulgence for those craving authentic Chinese BBQ.
Overall Experience and Recommendation:
Would I return? Yes, but only for take-out. The dine-in experience is marred by the pervasive plexiglass partitions, which give the impression that the seating area and utensils might not be thoroughly cleaned. Additionally, the staff's unwelcoming demeanour, particularly in refusing to cut the duck, suggests a lack of preparedness and consideration for customer convenience. While the flavors and quality of the food are exceptional, these shortcomings detract from the overall experience, making it less likely that I'd choose to dine in. HK BBQ Masters has room for improvement in its customer service and dining environment to match the standard of its cuisine.