Ssam Korean BBQ Carnegie — Restaurant in Melbourne

My partner and I had a fantastic experience at SSAM BBQ the first time, so we were really excited to try their Carnegie branch. We visited on a Saturday night at around 8:35 PM for a 1.5-hour dining session.

The variety of meats and options on offer was great, and the cuts were delicious. However, the experience fell short of our expectations. When we were seated, we grabbed some raw meat, only to then realize that our grill hadn’t been working/turned on. Fortunately, the servers weren’t too busy, and after a few minutes, they managed to fix it. Still, we had to wait an additional five minutes for the grill to heat up, which wasn’t ideal given our limited dining time.

While the meat itself was good quality and tasty, we did encountered another issue, our grill started burning as we cooked more meat. Unfortunately, the staff didn’t offer to change it, despite the fact that our food was cooking too quickly and charring. We had to lower the heat ourselves to avoid burning everything.

Another disappointment was that before our 1 hour mark, the staff had already started packing up and tidying away the food. We still had time to eat. I was looking forward to trying their dumplings for the first time, but when I went to get some, the steam basket was empty. The remaining food felt like leftovers, no longer fresh and not being replenished, despite the fact that the restaurant was open until 10:30 PM. I wished this was communicated to use earlier on, so we can expect what we’d be paying for.

The dessert selection was also lacking compared to the CBD branch, which offered delicious Korean ice cream. Here, they only had Bulla Australian ice popsicles, which you can easily buy at Woolworths.

Considering the price and weekend surcharge, I personally didn’t feel the experience...

-Arrived at 5:40pm and there was a line outside for about 5 groups already. At 5:55pm was advised the wait time would be about an hour. There are no seats so be prepared to stand. I’m heavily pregnant and luckily there was 4 of us to hold the spot so I could sit further down at a park bench. We drove from the west side so we were going to wait. It was exactly an hour of waiting we got a table. 6:50pm. -The tables are a little close so there isn’t much moving moving around or spreading out on the table but it’s enough. Again it was a little hard for me to squeeze with my pregnant belly. I think the tables were a bit small to fit what we needed but obviously you make it work. They serve paper plates and bowls which is easier for them as no washing. -Though we did have to wait an hour, it was a good time (Saturday) as there wasn’t long lines to collect the food. It started to get really busy around 7:30pm & there was a long line for all the food stations. When it’s really busy it kinda sucks because everyone’s in line for meat but I just wanted to grab fruit so I had to wait a while for that. -The food is regularly replenished. There is a wide selection of cooked foods, sushi and meats/sides for the bbq. The fruit was all so fresh and delicious. It does get quite warm so don’t wear too many layers. I wouldn’t say it’s family friendly eg. If you had a pram as there would be no space. -Defs a place I’d go again and recommend but I suggest you go with a minimum of 6 people so you can book ahead and avoid waiting in line. If you do have to wait, bring water & maybe a snack! -As per usual, no split bills & there’s a surcharge. Total for the 4 of us came...

If you’re a fan of authentic Korean BBQ, Ssam Korean BBQ in Carnegie is an absolute must-visit! From the moment you step in, the warm and inviting ambience sets the perfect mood for an unforgettable dining experience. The stylish yet cozy setting, combined with the sizzling sounds of the grill, creates an atmosphere that speaks for itself.

The service here is exceptional! The staff is incredibly attentive, friendly, and always ready to help, ensuring that every part of your meal is seamless and enjoyable. Whether you’re a seasoned Korean BBQ lover or trying it for the first time, they make sure you have everything you need for the perfect experience.

Now, let’s talk about the food—absolutely phenomenal! The variety of meats, seafood, and side dishes is impressive, catering to every palate. Each cut of meat is fresh, beautifully marinated, and packed with flavor, while the banchan (side dishes) add the perfect balance to the meal. The quality of ingredients truly stands out, making every bite a delight.

What makes Ssam even more special is the overall experience. It’s not just about the food—it’s about gathering around the grill, sharing laughs, and indulging in a feast that leaves you craving more. Whether you’re dining with friends, family, or even solo, this place guarantees a memorable meal.

If you’re in Carnegie and looking for top-tier Korean BBQ, look no further than Ssam. Highly...