No ceiling, just down to earth Korean Garden Korean barbecue
🍖 Korean Garden BBQ: Allston's Down-to-Earth Spot for No-Fuss Korean Grilling While Allston’s packed with Korean eateries, this spot stands out for approachable, no-frills Korean BBQ—less "celebrity chef" and more "family-style feast." With tender marinated ribs and a lively, unpretentious vibe, it’s the go-to for casual meat-fests with friends. Here’s what to prioritize: 🌟 BBQ Must-Orders (Meat Lovers, Rejoice) Korean Garden Special Kalbi (B1) 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 $35.95 • The crown jewel: ultra-tender short rib tips, marinated in sweet-savory Korean sauce ・Fat renders perfectly on the grill, no chewy bits— (daikou chi rou) at its finest • Pro grilling tip: Cook until edges caramelize, then wrap in lettuce with garlic + ssamjang Kalbi Gui (B2) 🌟🌟🌟🌟 $32.95 • Boneless marinated short ribs (no messy bone picking!) • Thin enough to cook fast, thick enough to stay juicy • Caveat: Portion’s smaller than B1—order B1 if you’re ravenous Mushroom Mix (B14) 🌟🌟🌟 $23.95 • King oyster mushrooms + button mushrooms marinated with onions ・Sweet marinade overpowers mushroom (umami) a bit, but texture stays satisfying • Opt for "no salt" to taste the mushrooms more 💡 Sides & Extras to Round Out the Meal Samgyetang (Ginseng Chicken Soup, Market Price) 🌟🌟🌟🌟 • Whole chicken stuffed with rice, ginseng, and herbs—light, nourishing broth • Perfect for balancing heavy BBQ (or for someone avoiding meat overload) Haemul Pajeon (Seafood Pancake) 🌟🌟🌟 $16.49 • Standard mix of shrimp, green onions, and batter—crispy edges, slightly oily center • Needs the accompanying soy-vinegar dip to shine Steamed Eggs 🌟🌟🌟🌟 $8.49 • Fluffy, savory egg custard with a hint of sesame oil • Pro move: Order early—takes 10+ minutes to steam Complimentary Perks: • Banchan (side dishes): kimchi, pickled radish, bean sprouts (refills on request) • Dipping sauces: sesame oil + salt (for pure meat flavor) and salty-sweet gochujang paste 📍 Vibe & Practical Tips Ambiance: • Spacious, utilitarian decor—think plastic tablecloths and BBQ vents above every table • Korean-speaking patrons laughing over soju = authentic, lively energy • Perfect for: Large groups (no awkward squeezing), late-night drinking (open until 10 PM) Parking: • Street spots on Harvard Ave (tough after 6 PM) • Paid lot across the street ($10 for 3 hours) Cost Breakdown: • ~$40/person (2 meats + 1 soup + pancake for 4 people) • Bring cash for faster service (card is accepted, but lines at the register get long) 🌟 Final Verdict: 4.2/5 (Allston’s Most Approachable BBQ) Skip the fancy spots—this is where locals go for straightforward, delicious Korean BBQ. The Special Kalbi alone justifies the trip, and the casual vibe means you can linger over soju without feeling rushed. Just come hungry. 🥩 #BostonKoreanBBQ #AllstonEats #KoreanGrill #MeatFest #BostonFoodie