Indianapolis’ Charcoal Korean BBQ: Mama‘s – Solid Grills with Caveats

Mama‘s in east Indy is a rare find for charcoal Korean BBQ in “the village”—a nostalgic nod to the authentic grills I had in Atlanta’s Koreatown years ago. ✨ What Works Authentic Charcoal Flavor: Hard to come by locally, the charcoal adds a unique smoky taste that elevates the meats. Great Side Dishes (Banchan): Abundant variety and delicious—one of the highlights of the meal. Quality Beef: Mama‘s Special Beef is a winner—well-marinated, tender, and pairs perfectly with the charcoal grill. Decent Pork: Pork options are solid, offering a good alternative to beef. 🍴 Order Wisely (Pro Tips) Must-Have: Start with Mama‘s Special Beef first—portion sizes are generous, so add more only if needed. Skip These: Chicken is underwhelming; spicy rice cakes are overly firm (not chewy enough); bibimbap is passable but unremarkable (sauce and rice served separately for self-mixing). Grilling Hack: The griddle’s cross mesh sticks easily when too hot (chicken was a mess!). Move meats to the cooler edges if the center gets too intense. 📌 Practical Info 🏠 Name: Mama‘s Korean BBQ📍 Location: East Indianapolis (low-key storefront, outdated decor) Pricing: ~$200 for 3 people (including 18% mandatory BBQ service fee + tip) – portions are large, so leftovers are likely. Key Note: 18% mandatory tip for BBQ is non-negotiable. Many reviews complain it doesn’t match the service, so factor that into your decision. Google Rating: 4.2/5 – most criticism centers on the mandatory tip, not the food itself. #Indianapolis #KoreanBBQ #CharcoalGrill #LocalEats #FoodieTips