Dustin L.
Yelp
IIRC TK92 is part of a group and is authentic KBBQ.
I came here when it first opened and like 3 more times after, one being very recent.
This place was one of the more pricey KBBQ places in the area and also gets crowded. The location isn't great as the plaza is tight and limited in parking.
I felt the quality was better when it first opened. A lot of restaurants will send in their flagship chefs/servers when they first open and then later on pass it to less experienced or new hires. The vibe here definitely feels a lot more American compared to their start and not as finely tuned. However, this is still one of the better kbbq spot in Alhambra.
The most important factor first: Meat quality
Pretty good. I remember it being amazing the first time I came but perhaps I'm just jaded now with so many places serving ungraded/graded wagyu, A5 wagyu, prime cuts, farm fresh/local sourced, etc.
If you like meat, the quality is good and will satisfy. Even if you're picky, I think there isn't a lot to complain for AYCE of this quality to price.
Next: Side dishes/Other Menu Items
They're solid. I think the quality may have changed a little. As I mentioned, some places start with flagship chefs and eventually they have others take over who follow recipe rather than know the taste and nuances. But at least the dishes are followed authentically.
Service: Mixed. We've had servers ignore our tables when we try to flag them or even ask "excuse me" as they pass by, but also some that were very helpful. It is a busy place, so I imagine some missed seeing us try to flag them and couldn't hear us from time to time due to the noise inside. Towards the latter half of our meal, they started frequenting us more to ask if we wanted additional orders or anything else, but the first half, we were passed by many times without checking in and some orders were forgotten or delayed quite a bit. Again, probably just because they're busy and tired, but I also didn't feel much enthusiasm or friendliness in some of their tone and body language. I am understanding in this and will never dock points off unless they're trying to fight me, but hearing something like a "be right there", "one moment", or "I'll get back to you" or a nod or some acknowledgment over being ignored; along with a more helpful tone/expression, will add to my experience and bump up the rating of my review. When it's busy, it's a hard job and some customers can suck and ruin your mood, but providing good service is something I consider when going between a 4 or 5 star rating.
Price: Higher side but not by a lot and definitely worth it for the quality
Interior: Interesting interior and decently spaced out tables. Seating felt standard and nothing particularly uncomfortable.
Overall Thoughts: This is a better spot for KBBQ in Alhambra/San Gabriel and other nearby SGV cities. It's a bit more pricey but worth it; though it gets crowded with lines and wait times, and the parking and plaza sucks. Not as good as I remembered my first few times coming here but still solid food and quality.