I don’t know about you, but K-dramas always make me crave BBQ, even through the screen. It’s pure torture not being able to visit Korea and savour the real thing. The sight of sizzling meat, with its slightly charred surface and hint of charcoal aroma, is irresistible. You also have the ssam where you wrap your grilled meats in fresh lettuce or perilla leaves, pop in some fresh garlic and gochujang, and you’re all set! Simply pop it in your mouth (if you can), and enjoy it like a local— it’s almost like being in Korea.
While you eagerly await your next trip to Korea, satisfy your cravings right here in JB. The city offers plenty of choices, and I have my personal favourites. So, let me share with you my 11 favourite Korean BBQ spots in JB.
1. Nam Moon Korean BBQ
jb korean bbq – front
Situated in Taman Pelangi, just a breezy 10-minute drive from KSL Mall, Nam Moon Korean BBQ has been serving up sizzling K-BBQ delights and authentic Korean dishes for 17 years. It’s helmed by a native Korean family from Seoul — the Lims.
jb korean bbq – overview
This eating spot is popular among Koreans living in JB and Singaporeans alike. It features over 40 à la carte dishes, cooked using treasured family recipes that make you feel like you’re enjoying a traditional Korean home-cooked meal. Even their banchan, kimchi, and makgulli rice wine are all crafted in-house — amazing!
If you’re dining in a group and are intimidated by the multiple items on the menu, stay calm! There’s also a variety of sets that cater to parties of 2 to 6 pax, ranging from RM115+ to RM270+.
jb korean bbq – different meats
Of course, what’s a K-BBQ feast without the plethora of fresh meats? They include US and Australian beef, Spanish pork, chicken, and even duck. Beef eaters must try the Kalbisal (RM89+), a beautifully-marbled boneless beef rib that melts in your mouth. You can’t go wrong with the Samgyupsal (RM30+), a delightful pork belly with the perfect ratio of meat to fat.
There’s also Dakbulgogi (marinated chicken sweet sauce) for RM38+, Hunjae Ori (roasted duck) for RM40+, Sengkalbi (fresh beef rib with bone) for RM89+, among others.
jb korean bbq – nam moon dishes
For those who enjoy some heat, give the Ojinguh Bokum (RM48+) a try. This is a spicy squid dish stir-fried with sweet, crunchy onion slices and gochujang, finished with a sprinkling of sesame seeds and spring onions.
A self-proclaimed cold noodle fan like myself can look forward to either the Mul Nangmyun (RM28+) or the spicy Bibim Nangmyun (RM28+). Both are paired with pickled radish, cucumber strips, radish and an entire hard boiled egg — perfect for the hot weather!
Get a taste of fresh seafood encased in a thin and crispy pancake with the Haemul Pajeon (RM35+), and DON’T forget to dunk it in the sauce for a multi-layered flavour experience. You can also enjoy steamboat sets like the Budae Jigae (RM90+/RM110+), an army stew packed with goodies like handcrafted mandu (dumplings), Spam, instant noodles, sausages, pork shoulder, and more!
jb korean bbq – banchan kimchi
Indulge in a spread of refillable house-made banchan, featuring 8 to 13 varieties such as marinated burdock, spinach, chive omelette, and pickled kelp.
Do savour the kimchi – it even outshines the ones I recently had in Seoul. It was the perfect balance of spicy, sour and savoury, dusted with sesame seeds for an extra oomph of nuttiness. Wash down your K-BBQ feast with their house-made Makgulli (RM30+), a smooth, sweet, and luscious rice wine blend that got me hooked — even though I don’t like alcohol!
31, Jalan Perang, Taman Pelangi, 80400 Johor Bahru, Johor
+60 7331 5573
Daily: 11am – 10pm
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2. MEETMEAT BBQ
Credit – MEETMEAT BBQ
Located just a short drive from Legoland, MEETMEAT BBQ at Sunway Iskandar is a premium Korean BBQ restaurant and butcher shop in one.
Born from MEETMEAT Korean Butcher in Johor Bahru, the brand began as a professional butcher shop before evolving into a full Korean BBQ dining experience. Built on a butcher-first philosophy, MEETMEAT BBQ stands for one belief above all — uncompromising meat quality.
JB Korean BBQ – restaurant areas
Choose your vibe — cosy private booths indoors, a semi-indoor space, or an outdoor dining area where your furry friends are always welcome.
JB Korean BBQ – butcher
MEETMEAT BBQ is also the only Korean BBQ restaurant in JB that has a Korean meat specialist. Chef Myounghwan Son, main chef and butcher, has 20 years of experience. He specialises in authentic Korean butchery techniques, precise cuts, and perfect texture.
Every cut reflects a craftsman’s pride. Carefully selected meats are aged using low-temperature and water-aging methods to maximise flavour and tenderness. Most importantly, MEETMEAT follows one core principle: meat is never pre-cut. Each order is hand-trimmed and sliced on the spot, ensuring peak freshness at the moment it reaches your grill.
From butcher shop to barbecue table, MEETMEAT BBQ stands by one promise — only the best meat is ever served.
Enjoy cuts from the beef à la carte menu like the Boneless Short Rib (RM110), Thick Skirt (RM70), and Oyster Blade (RM75). You can also indulge in the Beef U–Dae Galbi Set (RM240).
JB Korean BBQ – pork set
Your meats are grilled tableside over traditional cast iron pans that are specially imported from Korea. Hear the irresistible sizzling sounds, inhale the alluring fragrance, and treat your taste buds to succulent quality meats.
Savour the Bone Pork Belly Set (RM130) that throws in grilled kimchi at the centre — perfect for stuffing into delicious ssam wraps! The set also comes with complimentary Steamed Egg and your choice of either Kimchi Stew or Soybean Stew.
JB Korean BBQ – other offerings
To further enhance your BBQ session, add Grilled Fried Rice (+RM17) or Grilled Chapagetti (+RM17) and watch them prepare it over the pan right in front of you.
If you’re feeling adventurous, try the Raw Beef (RM75). Beat the egg yolk and drizzle over the fresh strips of beef. Pair them with the pear slices and fresh greens. I really enjoyed the Potato Pancake (RM28) that’s beautifully crispy on the outside, fluffy and moist on the inside.
To make a reservation, WhatsApp them at +6010 669 6934.
Lot 71-01, Sunway Emerald Boulevard, 88, Persiaran Medini 3, Sunway Iskandar, 79250 Iskandar Puteri, Johor Darul Ta’zim, Malaysia
+6010 669 6934
Daily: 4.30am – 11pm
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3. Sae Ma Eul BBQ
Sae Ma Eul BBQ is a sought-after eatery in KL, renowned for its affordable and delicious grilled meat; the establishment is frequently crowded with students. One of their most recent JB outlets located in Austin Crest, attracting an even larger crowd than at its previous location in Iskandar Puteri. They also have 2 more branches at Taman Sutera Utama and Taman Pelangi.
If you’re a big eater, why not get the most out of your money with their buffet offering? For RM45 nett per adult, you can tuck into a variety of meats, including spicy chicken ribs, pork belly, marinated pork ribs, spicy pork belly, and pork shoulder. Children 100cm to 129cm tall are affordably charged at RM30 nett, while those under 100cm can dine for free.
The buffet has a dining limit of 100 minutes, and a charge of RM20 per 100g applies for any food wastage— be sure not to over-serve yourself. Each diner is entitled to access to the self-service bar with banchan, vegetables, garlic, and condiments. A minimum of 2 pax is required to enjoy the buffet. So, invite your friends out and share the joy together!
For a list of locations, contact numbers and opening hours, click here.
4. Hanam BBQ
Hanam BBQ is another hotspot for Korean BBQ in JB, with 3 outlets across the city. Its location in JB’s R&F Mall has been a success and gained popularity among the local diners. The location is strategic, situated right close to the CIQ, a convenient spot to enjoy tantalising Korean fare for those seeking a break after enduring the causeway traffic.
The menu features various cuts of pork, ranging from fatty to lean. If you prefer an assorted variety, check out Assortment Set (RM175), consisting of 360g samgyeopsal (pork belly), 180g teukmoksal (collar butt), and 150g hangjungsal (jowl meat).
Dining in a party of 2? Go for Set 02 (RM137) with 360g samgyeopsal, one stew of your choice, and steamed egg with flying fish roe.
For less fat, consider the Collar Butt (RM45); it has moderate fat distribution among the lean meat, making it a perfect source of protein. Alternatively, there’s the Skirt Meat (RM47), which is fat-free, with a soft and chewy texture. Each pig yields only about 300g of this cut. That’s precious! They also offer Pork Intestines (RM60), which are high in calcium and have a springy texture, a rarity in Korean BBQ eateries.
R&F Mall, Lot 1-106~1-108 R&F Mall Mercu1, Jalan Tanjung Puteri, 1, R&F, Tanjung Puteri, 80300, Johor
+607 706 0094
Mon to Thu: 12pm – 3pm & 5pm – 10.30pm
Fri to Sun: 12pm – 3pm & 5pm – 11pm
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5. Jeju Korea BBQ Restaurant
Jeju Korea BBQ Restaurant was one of the pioneers when the Korean dining trend first gained popularity. In addition to Korean BBQ, it also serves other authentic Korean dishes like stews and hot pots. You can easily find them at Mount Austin.
It offers a comprehensive selection of meats, including pork, beef, and chicken; there’s even seafood, which is not commonly found in Korean BBQ establishments— great news for seafood lovers! Enjoy a variety of meats with their Pork, Beef, and Chicken Set. Priced at RM155, this set feeds 2-3 people with pork belly, marinated ribeye, marinated chicken chop, and your choice of kimchi stew or soybean stew.
The sets are available in different sizes based on the number of people. For larger groups, there’s a set that serves up to 5 people, priced at RM353. It includes a wide array of dishes such as pork belly, pork shoulder butt, pork ribs, tiger prawn, thin pork belly, pork belly with chilli paste, seafood pancake with green onion, and your choice of a large seafood casserole or kimchi casserole. Plus, you get a complimentary tteokbokki or soju with this set— what a deal!
18 & 20, Jalan Austin Heights 8/7, Taman Mount Austin, 81100 Johor Bahru, Johor
+6010 557 1457
Sun, Mon & Thu: 11.30am – 10.30pm
Tue: 11.30am – 12am
Fri & Sat: 11.30am – 11pm
Wed: 12am – 10.30am & 11.30am – 10.30pm
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6. Jang Won Korea Restaurant
I believe Jang Won Korea Restaurant holds school time memories for many locals, myself included. Founded at Stulang Laut, the restaurant attracted many students because of its strategic location. After the pandemic, it opened another outlet in Mid Valley, providing a more comfortable dining environment.
Similar to other Korean BBQ eateries, this restaurant also offers various set meals that cater to up to 8 pax. If you’re visiting with a group of 4 to 5 persons, consider Set E (RM248), which includes pork belly, pork shoulder, pork spare rib, steamed egg, kimchi hotpot, 12 kinds of side dishes, tea, and ice cream. With such a variety of dishes, you’re sure to have a satisfying meal.
K3-211, Block C, Perniagaan Stulang Laut, Jalan Ibrahim Sultan, 80300 Johor Bahru, Johor
+607 220 0772
Daily: 11am – 11pm
S011&011A, Level 2, The Mall, Mid Valley Southkey, Persiaran Southkey 1, Southkey, 80150 Johor Bahru, Johor
Daily: 10am – 10pm
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7. Itaewon BBQ Buffet
Opened in Apr 2024, Itaewon BBQ Buffet has become a popular choice for Korean BBQ among diners. It has brought a fresh touch to Taman Daya’s culinary scene, adding to the diversity of cuisine in the area.
The buffet price varies depending on the time of day, with dinner being generally more expensive than lunch. Adults can enjoy the unlimited refill Korean charcoal BBQ at RM35+ for lunch while children and senior citizens above the age of 65 pay RM28+. This pricing applies from 11am to 4pm. Dinner runs from 4pm to 11pm, with adults being charged RM38+, and children and senior citizens paying RM31+. Kids below 75cm in height can dine for free.
The buffet meat options include pork belly, pork shoulder, pork ribs marinated in soy sauce, spicy pork belly, spicy grilled chicken ribs, and soy sauce grilled chicken ribs. Guests can also help themselves to the self-service bar for the banchan of the day, vegetables, sauces, and iced water. Be mindful not to waste food!
5, Jalan Sagu 21, Taman Daya, 81100 Johor Bahru, Johor
+6016 403 9242
Mon to Thu: 12pm – 11pm
Fri to Sun: 12pm – 11.30pm
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8. Shik Gaek Korean Family Restaurant
Located in the vicinity of Jalan Sri Pelangi, Shik Gaek Korean Family Restaurant is a popular yet affordable Korean BBQ restaurant that’s frequented by young and old alike.
If you find it too much of a hassle to order à la carte, simply take your pick from the various sets available. Explore their BBQ Special sets like the Set A (RM88 for 2 pax), which features pork belly, marinated pork neck, spicy squid, spicy pork belly, spicy chicken thigh, spam, and sausage, along with kimchi soup.
Those dining in a party of 4 should go for the Set B (RM200), which has the same lineup of grilled items with additional grilled prawn, bibimbap, and kimchi soup thrown in.
Meat fans can also indulge and look forward to feasting on succulent Duck Rib Eye (RM35), Fresh Short Rib Beef (RM105), and Marinated L.A Kalbi (RM98).
185, Jalan Sri Pelangi, Taman Tebrau Jaya, 80400 Johor Bahru, Johor
+6011 6747 4276
Daily: 12 – 11pm
9. Doma Korean Cuisine
Dedicated to introducing the flavours of Korea, Doma Korean Cuisine has opened a shop in JB’s R&F Mall, offering a range of delicious Korean fare, with a primary focus on BBQ. Boasting multiple outlets in Korea, their popularity speaks for itself.
The eatery offers a variety of set menus suitable for groups. The 2-pax set menu is available for RM278 and includes types of meat like beef prime rib, pork belly slices, boneless chicken, and a choice between pork spare ribs or beef spare ribs. The meats are expertly cut, grilled over charcoal, and cooked to perfection. The set also includes a refreshing side of mushrooms to balance the meal.
Level 1-116, R&F MALL, Jalan Tanjung Puteri, Tanjung Puteri, 80300 Johor Bahru, Johor
+6012 687 4988
Daily: 12pm – 11pm
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10. Myeong Dong Korean BBQ Buffet
Myeong Dong Korean BBQ Buffet used to be a popular spot among students for its budget-friendly prices, and is situated in bustling Mount Austin (currently temporarily closed). Be prepared for a potentially long search for parking if you visit during peak hours. Alternatively, they also have an outlet in Permas Jaya.
Adults can dine for RM45 nett, while children are charged RM28 nett. There’s a dining time limit of 1 hour and 40 minutes. Remarkably, there is no surcharge even on weekends; the buffet remains the same price!
The buffet features over 6 types of meats with different cuts and flavours. Options include sweet marinated pork, pork belly slices, pork shoulder slices, spicy pork belly, wine pork, spicy pork bulgogi, pork shoulder, and pork bulgogi. They also offer kimchi soup and seaweed soup for those seeking something hot and comforting, which can be paired with instant noodles. The array of choices is sure to satisfy every palate.
For a list of locations, contact numbers and opening hours, click here.
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11. Palsaik Korean BBQ
For a slightly premium Korean BBQ experience, head over to Palsaik Korean BBQ. This popular chain, well-known to many diners, boasts several outlets across the country. In JB, you can find this restaurant at Mid Valley, AEON Tebrau, and Sutera Utama.
Palsaik essentially means “8 colours” in Korean, reflecting the 8 distinct flavours of their signature BBQ meat dish. The Palsaik Signature Pork Belly (RM188) includes varieties like ginseng, wine, pine leaves, garlic, herb, curry, miso paste, and red pepper paste. This set, best suited for 2 to 4 people, comes with a choice of Clear Clam Hot Pot, Doenjang (Soybean Paste) Seafood Hot Pot, Spicy Seafood Hot Pot, or Kimchi Pork Hot Pot. On a side note, this is an award-winning dish!
For a more elevated experience, try the Premium Pork Set (RM228 at Mid Valley), featuring quality ingredients like Iberico pork collar, squid, pork jowl, pork belly, and pork shoulder. It is also served with a hotpot in your choice of flavours, similar to the ones mentioned above. Treat yourself to a wonderful meal as a reward for all your hard work!
For a list of locations, contact numbers and opening hours, click here.
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