Halmae Bossam — Restaurant in Niles Township

If you’re craving an unforgettable bossam experience, look no further than Halmae Bossam. From the moment I walked in, the warm and inviting atmosphere set the tone for what would be an exceptional meal. As someone who has been seriously craving bossam lately, I was beyond excited to finally satisfy my hunger, and this place absolutely hit the spot.

We ordered the dinner set that serves 3-4 people. We chose the bossam with fish and beef soup. The bossam was a masterpiece. The pork belly was cooked to perfection—tender, juicy, and bursting with flavor. I love that the fat to meat ratio was perfect. Each bite was a delightful combination of savory, slightly sweet, and wonderfully seasoned meat. The kimchi and side dishes that came with the bossam complemented it perfectly, adding the right balance of tang and spice.

What truly stood out, however, was the service. The staff were friendly, attentive, and genuinely welcoming, making me feel right at home. They were happy to offer recommendations, and they made sure that I had everything I needed throughout the meal.

It’s rare to find a place that hits all the right notes, but Halmae Bossam does it effortlessly. If you’re in the mood for bossam, this is the place to go. You’ll leave feeling full, satisfied, and already planning your next visit. I...

Halmae Bossam is a standout spot for Korean barbecue, blending hearty flavors with heartfelt hospitality. The owners greet every guest warmly—whether you’re dining solo or with friends—and their generosity shines through occasional complimentary dishes that make the experience feel extra special.

Don’t miss the banchan (traditional Korean side dishes), which are the soul of the meal here. Made in-house using the owner’s grandmother’s time-honored recipes, these small plates—like kimchi, marinated veggies, and savory pancakes—are bursting with fresh, authentic flavor. They’re the perfect accompaniment to the smoky grilled meats.

The updated menu offers a mix of classic BBQ staples and creative new additions, ensuring there’s something for everyone. What truly sets this place apart, though, is its cozy, unpretentious vibe. Dining alone? No problem! The welcoming atmosphere makes it easy to enjoy a satisfying meal without feeling out of place.

For homemade banchan crafted with care, generous portions, and a family-like vibe, Halmae Bossam is a must-visit. Guaranteed to leave you planning your next meal before...

It's winter in Chicago and what better way to warm up than with a savory stew? The father-in-law had a taste for gamjatang so our little group of 4 headed over to Hal Mae. The gamjatang was as good as advertised. It overflowed with meaty pork bones, was spicy enough and had a wonderful smoky flavor (from paprika, perhaps). We also ordered bibimbop and a fish stew which were also quite good. We didn't have room for bossam but, based on this experience, I'm coming back to try their namesake dish.

Service was brisk and pretty average for a Korean restaurant. Oddly, we were directed to a table that wasn't cleared away yet even though there were other open and ready tables. My mother-in-law didn't react so I'm guessing there was a practical reason but my mediocre Korean didn't catch it. Our teas were refilled a few times without asking so that's a plus.

And last but not least, the parking lot is narrow. The opening on Waukegan is exit only. The entrance is on the south side...