Korean BBQ & Pocha - Yuk Gam — Restaurant in Melbourne

I would absolutely not recommend this restaurant to anyone. Let me start by saying that I’m just an average Korean guy. The reason I mention this is because, as many Koreans would understand, we usually don’t bother writing reviews — even if the food or service is bad. We just don’t go back. But I felt compelled to write this review because the experience was that terrible.

After a day of travel and having only eaten lunch, I came to this restaurant looking forward to a great meal based on positive Google reviews. I ordered the Premium Angus Set ($115) and a beer.

Here’s a quick summary of why I was so disappointed: The price was not reflected in the quality or presentation of the food. The set was modest at best, and the grill was in poor sanitary condition. The service was appalling. One of the female servers (tall, with long hair) accidentally spilled soup on me. But instead of addressing the situation, she walked away as if nothing had happened. I reported the incident to the floor manager (blonde hair, wearing a leather jacket), and after a long delay, all I got was a half-hearted “sorry” — completely emotionless.

My jumper, pants, and shoes were stained and smelled from the soup, and when I asked for tissues to clean myself, the manager only wiped the floor and gave me nothing. I wasn’t expecting compensation — just a sincere apology and a prompt response would have been enough. But that never happened.

Though I hadn’t eaten anything since lunch, I couldn’t continue the meal. I left in less than 30 minutes because I didn’t want to ruin a trip I had been looking forward to for 10 years. I ended up eating elsewhere. Total cost? $134 — completely wasted.

This was one of the worst dining experiences I’ve ever had, and I hope no one else goes through the same. I wouldn’t go back here — or anywhere...

My experience at YUKGAM was profoundly disappointing. It is disheartening to see a restaurant fail in fundamental aspects such as the quality of the meat, service, BBQ equipment, ambiance, and pricing, prompting me to write this review. My partner and I are avid fans of Korean BBQ, and when he suggested a BBQ dinner, I was thrilled and even invited my close friend to join us. Initially, we intended to dine at Paik’s, but due to a 45-minute wait for walk-ins, we opted to explore the surrounding 'Korean' lane and eventually chose Yukgam.

Upon arrival, we were seated in a booth at the very back, surrounded by numerous Korean posters and advertisements. Unfortunately, the service began on a sour note, with the server displaying a poor attitude that slightly improved as it became apparent that several of our orders were mishandled.

We were seated at 7:25 PM, but the first portion of meat did not arrive until 8:05 PM—an unacceptable 40-minute wait at a BBQ establishment. Due to our location at the back of the restaurant, we were largely neglected by the staff. I had to leave my seat 4-5 times during the meal to get the attention of the staff, and even basic items such as tissues and water had to be fetched by us.

While the side dishes were satisfactory, many had run out for the night when we requested refills. The BBQ unit was not coal-based, and this was evident in the quality of the cooking. The meat lacked the usual flavor and precision we expect from a coal-based BBQ unit.

To add to the disappointment, the bill was more expensive than at Paik’s. Overall, this was our first and last visit to Yukgam. I cannot recommend this restaurant, and I regret that we were unable to provide my friend with a better first experience...

An Unforgettable Korean BBQ Experience – Yak Gum is a Must-Visit!

I rarely leave reviews, but Yak Gum deserves every bit of this glowing 5 stars. From the moment we walked in, the entire experience was exceptional—this is hands down one of the best Korean BBQ spots I’ve ever been to.

First off, the service is phenomenal. The staff are incredibly attentive, friendly, and knowledgeable. They helped guide us through the menu and made sure our grill was always just right. You can really tell they care about quality and creating a great dining atmosphere.

The food? Absolutely outstanding. The quality of the meats is next level—fresh, tender, and full of flavor. Each cut was beautifully marbled and perfectly seasoned. The marinated short rib (galbi) was a standout, and the pork belly melted in your mouth. Every bite felt like it was crafted with care.

What really impressed me was the variety and quality of the side dishes (banchan). You’re not just getting filler items—these were fresh, well-balanced, and kept coming throughout the meal. The kimchi had just the right kick, the pickled radishes were crisp and refreshing, and the japchae was so good we asked for seconds.

Yak Gum also nails the ambiance—it’s stylish yet cozy, with just the right balance of energy and intimacy. Whether you’re out for a casual dinner, a date, or celebrating with friends, it fits every occasion.

This place is a gem. Everything—from the high-quality food to the top-tier service—makes Yak Gum a standout in the KBBQ scene. I’ll definitely be coming back (probably sooner than later), and I’ll be recommending it to everyone I know.

Do yourself a favor and book a table. You...