Last Updated: January 1, 2026
From sizzling tabletop grills on Somerset Street to late-night KBBQ sessions on Rideau, Ottawa’s Korean barbecue scene offers everything from authentic family-run spots to modern fusion experiences.
Korean barbecue has exploded in popularity across Ottawa, driven by K-drama culture and the irresistible appeal of grilling your own meat at the table. Whether you’re craving marinated galbi ribs, crispy pork belly, or spicy cheese chicken galbi, the capital’s Koreatown corridor along Somerset Street West delivers authentic experiences alongside newer venues in the ByWard Market area.
Key Highlights
TL;DR: Somerset Street West is Ottawa’s KBBQ hub, with Korean House, Koreana, and Daldongnae offering tabletop grilling. Mu Goong Hwa Garden on Rideau Street provides the best value all-you-can-eat experience. Expect $25-45 per person for AYCE, or $20-35 for a la carte. Most restaurants require minimum two servings per table.
| Quick Facts | Details |
|---|---|
| 🍖 Best AYCE Value | Mu Goong Hwa Garden (376 Rideau St) |
| 📍 KBBQ Hub | Somerset Street West (Chinatown) |
| 💰 Price Range | $25-45 per person (AYCE) |
| ⏰ Late Night Option | Gogiya (open until 2 AM) |
| 🍗 Unique Find | Cheese Chicken Galbi at Alirang |
| 🥩 Premium Cuts | Daldongnae Korean BBQ |
Mu Goong Hwa Garden - Best Value AYCE
Mu Goong Hwa Garden offers generous portions at reasonable prices
Address: 376 Rideau Street, Ottawa, ON K1N 5Y6 Phone: 613-860-8300 Hours: Mon & Wed 3:30-9 PM, Thu 3:30-8 PM, Fri-Sun 12-3 PM & 5-9 PM (Closed Tuesdays)
Mu Goong Hwa Garden consistently ranks among Ottawa’s favourite Korean BBQ destinations, combining quality meats with genuinely affordable pricing. The unassuming exterior hides a welcoming dining room where staff actively help newcomers navigate the tabletop grilling experience.
What Makes It Special
The restaurant offers both all-you-can-eat Korean BBQ and a la carte options, making it versatile for different appetites and budgets. First-timers appreciate the hands-on assistance—staff will turn on your gas stove and even demonstrate proper grilling technique if you’re unsure.
What to Order
The combination plate provides excellent value, arriving with a generous spread of marinated meats alongside traditional banchan (side dishes). For AYCE diners, pace yourself by ordering small portions at a time to avoid waste. Finish with Melona ice cream if you have room.
Pro Tip: The a la carte combination plate often provides better value than AYCE unless you’re genuinely hungry. Side dishes are constantly replenished regardless of which option you choose.
For more dining options in the Rideau area, explore our ByWard Market food guide.
Daldongnae Korean BBQ - Premium Experience
Daldongnae offers a more upscale KBBQ atmosphere with premium cuts
Address: 610 Somerset Street West, 1st Floor, Ottawa, ON Phone: 613-232-8880 Website: daldongnaebbq.com Hours: Sun-Thu 12-11 PM, Fri-Sat 12 PM-12 AM
Daldongnae brings a more refined Korean BBQ experience to Somerset Street. The spacious restaurant easily accommodates larger groups—a rarity among Ottawa’s typically compact KBBQ spots.
Why Choose Daldongnae
The focus on quality distinguishes Daldongnae from competitors. Premium cuts include beautifully marinated short ribs, thick-cut pork belly, and specialty items not easily found elsewhere in Ottawa. The restaurant also operates a second location in the ByWard Market.
The Experience
Each table features built-in grills with proper ventilation, and banchan selections are replenished throughout your meal. The modern atmosphere suits both casual dinners and celebrations, though weekend evenings fill quickly.
Pro Tip: Arrive before 6 PM on weekends to avoid waiting. The later hours (until midnight on weekends) make this ideal for post-event dining.
Korean House - Authentic Somerset Street
Korean House offers intimate tabletop grilling in Ottawa’s Koreatown
Address: 785 Somerset Street West, Ottawa, ON K1R 6R3 Phone: 613-237-0808 Website: koreanhouse.ca Hours: Sun-Mon & Wed 11:30 AM-9 PM, Tue 4-9 PM
Korean House epitomizes the authentic, no-frills Korean BBQ experience that K-drama fans dream about. This family-run establishment on Somerset Street has earned loyal regulars through consistent quality and welcoming service.
The All-You-Can-Eat Experience
The compact space creates an intimate atmosphere perfect for dates or small groups of friends. Separate seating areas for AYCE and a la carte diners mean you’ll want to decide what you’re ordering before arriving with friends.
What to Order
The lunch set offers exceptional variety for a reasonable price, including marinated pork, chicken, and beef alongside jeon (savoury vegetable pancakes), dumplings, and miso soup. Galbi ribs are limited to two servings per table due to their premium nature.
Those with lower spice tolerance will find plenty of options, including bibimbap, deep-fried appetizers, and mild hotpot dishes that complement the barbecue experience.
Pro Tip: Call ahead for weekend dinner reservations—the limited seating fills quickly. Online reservations aren’t currently available.
Koreana Restaurant - Fusion Friendly
Koreana combines Korean BBQ with sushi and fusion options
Address: 711 Somerset Street West, Ottawa, ON K1R 6P5 Phone: 613-230-7111 Website: koreana-ottawa.com Hours: Mon & Wed-Thu 4-9 PM, Fri-Sun 12-9 PM (Closed Tuesdays)
Koreana offers more breathing room than Somerset Street’s smaller establishments, making it ideal for larger groups seeking Korean BBQ in Ottawa. The fusion menu extends beyond traditional KBBQ to include sushi and hot pot options.
Versatility on the Menu
Not everyone in your group wants barbecue? Koreana solves this common dining dilemma with its extensive menu spanning noodles, spicy stews, deep-fried treats, and Japanese-influenced dishes. They also offer soju, sake, and Korean beers.
Barbecue Options
Beyond standard pork and beef, Koreana offers seafood and chicken for tabletop grilling. The set combinations allow groups to sample multiple meats, and the spacious tables prevent the elbow-bumping common at smaller venues.
Note: Each table must order a minimum of two servings for barbecue. For AYCE, everyone at the table must participate.
Alirang - The Hidden Gem
Alirang in Nepean offers authentic KBBQ away from the Somerset crowds
Address: 1485 Merivale Road, Nepean, ON Phone: 613-695-5188 Website: alirangkorean.com Hours: Tue-Fri 3:30-9 PM, Sat-Sun 12-9:30 PM (Closed Mondays)
For those willing to venture beyond downtown, Alirang on Merivale Road delivers authentic Korean BBQ with a unique signature dish you won’t find elsewhere in Ottawa.
The Cheese Chicken Galbi
Alirang’s standout offering is the cheese chicken galbi—tender chicken pieces cooked in a spicy sauce with melted cheese. This fusion creation has developed a dedicated following and distinguishes Alirang from the downtown competition.
Classic Barbecue
The traditional offerings include pork belly, jowl meat, and marinated beef ribs. While the barbecue selection is more focused than larger restaurants, portions are generous and arrive with banchan spreads, salads, and dipping sauces.
Pricing Note: Minimum two servings required per table. The pricing is reasonable considering the quantity of accompaniments included with each meat order.
Gogiya - Late Night KBBQ
Gogiya stays open until 2 AM for late-night Korean food cravings
Address: 470 Rideau Street, Ottawa, ON K1N 8C1 Phone: 613-562-3883 Hours: Open until 2 AM
When Korean BBQ cravings strike late at night, Gogiya answers the call. This Rideau Street spot caters to the after-hours crowd, making it perfect for post-event dining or late weekend meals.
Beyond the Grill
While the tabletop BBQ is solid, Gogiya has earned particular fame for its Korean fried chicken. The crispy, spicy coating rivals any fried chicken in the city. Consider combining barbecue with a side of their signature chicken for the complete experience.
The Atmosphere
The dark interior creates a slightly more refined ambiance while maintaining the casual comfort essential to Korean dining. The cozy space fills with a younger crowd as the night progresses, especially on weekends.
Best For: Post-bar food, late dinners, or anyone whose KBBQ cravings don’t conform to normal restaurant hours.
For more late-night dining options, check our restaurants open late Ottawa guide.
Gyubee - Japanese-Korean Fusion
Gyubee in the ByWard Market blends Japanese and Korean BBQ traditions
Address: 95 York Street, Ottawa, ON K1N 5T2 (ByWard Market) Phone: 613-695-1777 Website: gyubee.ca
Gyubee bills itself as Japanese BBQ, but the tabletop grilling experience closely mirrors Korean BBQ traditions. Located in the ByWard Market, this popular spot frequently requires reservations—a testament to its reputation.
Premium All-You-Can-Eat
The AYCE menu at Gyubee features high-quality meats with particularly noteworthy seafood options. The shrimp earns consistent praise, and the overall variety exceeds many dedicated KBBQ restaurants.
Service Excellence
Staff attentiveness sets Gyubee apart. Despite constant busyness, servers remain responsive and helpful, ensuring your dining experience runs smoothly from seating to final bill.
Reservation Tip: Book in advance, especially for Friday and Saturday evenings. Walk-ins face unpredictable wait times.
In’s Kitchen - No-Grill Alternative
In’s Kitchen offers Korean BBQ flavours without the tabletop grilling
Address: 1-65 Templeton Street, Ottawa, ON Phone: 613-233-1001 Website: inskitchen.ca Hours: Mon-Fri 11 AM-8 PM, Sat 12-7 PM (Closed Sundays)
Not everyone wants the full tabletop grilling experience. In’s Kitchen offers thoughtfully curated set menus featuring pre-grilled Korean BBQ flavours alongside fresh vegetables, stews, and banchan.
Perfect For
Students and young professionals near the University of Ottawa appreciate the affordable pricing and efficient service. The set menus remove decision paralysis while ensuring a balanced meal.
Halal Options
Notably, In’s Kitchen offers halal beef and chicken options—a rarity in Ottawa’s Korean dining scene. Inform staff when ordering to ensure proper preparation.
Best For: Solo diners, quick lunches, or anyone wanting Korean BBQ flavours without the full production of tabletop grilling.
How Korean BBQ Works
Banchan side dishes are constantly replenished during your meal
The Tabletop Experience
Korean BBQ centres on cooking raw meats at your table using a built-in gas or charcoal grill. Most Ottawa restaurants use gas for safety and ventilation purposes. Here’s what to expect:
- Order your meats - Choose from pork belly, beef, chicken, seafood, or marinated options
- Receive banchan - Small side dishes arrive first (kimchi, pickled radish, bean sprouts, etc.)
- Grill at your pace - Staff may assist with the first round; afterwards, you control the cooking
- Wrap and enjoy - Use lettuce leaves to wrap meat with rice, garlic, and sauces
- Reorder freely - AYCE allows unlimited meat orders; a la carte lets you add dishes as desired
Pricing Structures
| Type | Price Range | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| All-You-Can-Eat | $30-45/person | Groups, big appetites |
| A La Carte | $15-25/dish | Couples, lighter eaters |
| Lunch Sets | $15-25/person | Solo diners, quick meals |
Most restaurants require minimum two servings for tabletop BBQ orders, ensuring the grill gets proper use.
Tips for First-Time Diners
Proper grilling technique ensures the best KBBQ experience
What to Wear
Korean BBQ involves smoke and splattering oil. Avoid wearing your finest clothes—casual, machine-washable attire works best. Some restaurants provide aprons, but don’t count on it.
Ordering Strategy
For AYCE: Order small portions frequently rather than loading the table. Most restaurants charge penalties for excessive waste, and cold meat loses its appeal.
For A La Carte: The combination plates typically offer better value than ordering individual items. Share several different meats across the table.
Must-Try Items
- Samgyeopsal - Thick-cut pork belly, the quintessential KBBQ meat
- Bulgogi - Thinly sliced marinated beef, sweet and savoury
- Galbi - Marinated short ribs, often limited in AYCE
- Daeji Bulgogi - Spicy marinated pork
- Chadolbaegi - Thinly sliced beef brisket
Wrapping Technique
The traditional method involves placing grilled meat on a lettuce or perilla leaf, adding rice, a slice of garlic, ssamjang (fermented bean paste), and perhaps a piece of kimchi. Fold and eat in one bite.
Korean BBQ Comparison
| Restaurant | Location | AYCE Price | Unique Feature |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mu Goong Hwa | Rideau St | ~$35 | Best value, helpful staff |
| Daldongnae | Somerset St | ~$40 | Premium cuts, spacious |
| Korean House | Somerset St | ~$30 | Authentic atmosphere |
| Koreana | Somerset St | ~$35 | Fusion menu, sushi options |
| Alirang | Merivale Rd | ~$35 | Cheese chicken galbi |
| Gogiya | Rideau St | ~$35 | Open until 2 AM |
| Gyubee | ByWard Market | ~$45 | Japanese fusion, seafood |
| In’s Kitchen | Templeton St | ~$20 set | Pre-grilled, halal options |
Prices approximate; verify with restaurants for current rates
FAQ
What is the best Korean BBQ restaurant in Ottawa?
Mu Goong Hwa Garden on Rideau Street offers the best combination of value, quality, and service for first-time KBBQ diners. For premium cuts and a modern atmosphere, Daldongnae on Somerset Street is the top choice.
How much does Korean BBQ cost in Ottawa?
All-you-can-eat Korean BBQ typically costs $30-45 per person. A la carte options range from $15-25 per dish, while lunch sets offer the best value at $15-25 per person.
Where is Ottawa’s Koreatown?
Somerset Street West between Bronson Avenue and Preston Street serves as Ottawa’s Korean dining hub, with Korean House, Koreana, and Daldongnae all within walking distance.
Do I need reservations for Korean BBQ in Ottawa?
Reservations are recommended for Gyubee and weekend dinners at popular spots. Korean House and Mu Goong Hwa Garden accept walk-ins but can have waits during peak hours. Call ahead when possible.
Is there late-night Korean BBQ in Ottawa?
Gogiya on Rideau Street stays open until 2 AM, making it the go-to destination for late-night Korean food cravings.
What should I order at Korean BBQ?
Start with samgyeopsal (pork belly) and bulgogi (marinated beef)—the quintessential KBBQ meats. Add galbi (short ribs) if available, and don’t skip the banchan side dishes.
Are there halal Korean BBQ options in Ottawa?
In’s Kitchen on Templeton Street offers halal beef and chicken options. Inform staff when ordering to ensure proper preparation.
What’s the difference between AYCE and a la carte?
All-you-can-eat (AYCE) allows unlimited meat orders for a fixed price. A la carte lets you order individual dishes, often better for couples or lighter eaters. AYCE usually requires everyone at the table to participate.
Do Korean BBQ restaurants accommodate vegetarians?
Most Korean BBQ focuses on meat, but banchan side dishes, vegetable pancakes (jeon), and bibimbap provide vegetarian-friendly options. Ask staff for guidance.
What should I wear to Korean BBQ?
Wear casual, machine-washable clothes. Smoke and oil splatters are inevitable during tabletop grilling. Avoid expensive fabrics or dry-clean-only items.
Final Thoughts
Ottawa’s Korean BBQ scene offers genuine quality across both the Somerset Street corridor and Rideau Street options. For first-timers, Mu Goong Hwa Garden provides the most welcoming introduction with helpful staff and reasonable prices. Serious KBBQ enthusiasts should explore Daldongnae’s premium offerings, while late-night crowds will appreciate Gogiya’s extended hours.
The communal nature of Korean BBQ—gathering around a grill, sharing meats and banchan, controlling your own cooking pace—creates dining experiences unlike typical restaurant visits. Whether you’re celebrating with a large group or enjoying an intimate date night, Ottawa’s Korean BBQ restaurants deliver on both food quality and atmosphere.
Book ahead for weekends, come hungry, and don’t wear your best clothes.
Sources: Best in Ottawa, Cozymeal, restaurant websites and social media.
