SSAM K-BBQ &BAR — Restaurant in Pleasanton

My recent visit to SSAm was a mixed bag. It had its moments of promise, but several key aspects held it back from being a truly enjoyable Korean BBQ experience. Meat Variety and Freshness: The menu featured a good selection of meats, from well-marbled brisket to tender pork belly. The marinated short ribs were especially good, with a rich, savory flavor that stood out. However, we ordered two premium meals and only one serving each served. Banchan Selection: The variety of side dishes were disappointing and the portion was the smallest I have ever had, but the kimchi was perfectly fermented, The steamed egg and tofu soup were comforting touch. Grill Maintenance: The staff was quick to replace the grills when they became too smoky, ensuring a clean cooking surface. This is always a big plus at Korean BBQ..Service: While the staff was new they seemed overwhelmed. My husband ordered a beer and they served the beer without removing the cap and we had to wait for a bit. I ordered hot tea and it never came. and there were extended waits to get more meat or refill side. Ambiance: The dining room was open and the chandeliers were a very pleasant touch. Portion Sizes: For the price, the portions of meat felt small, especially for premium cuts. We ordered two premium portions and only one portion was served each time. Marinades and Flavor Balance: typical Korean BBQ marinades. Nothing special! SSAM isn’t a bad spot for Korean BBQ, but it doesn’t quite rise above the competition. While the meat quality and banchan were satisfactory, the prices didn’t make it feel like a good value for the money. I might return if I’m in the area and craving BBQ, but it wouldn’t be my first choice. With so many options for Korean BBQ, I’d suggest exploring other spots that provide a better balance of service,...

We went here yesterday to try it for the first time. The atmosphere was good. There were a couple of birthday celebrations where the staff turned down the lights and brought out the cake with sparklers. Cakes seem to be brought in by the customers. The female staff who took us to the table and brought the food/drinks could use a bit more training. They weren't friendly at all. Their service wasn't as professional, either. In a few instances, they brought the wrong drink or food items. Also, the way they placed the food on our table seemed a bit rough. Our server, however, was completely nice and attentive. So, kudos to him. Overall, the food was okay. The meats were fresh. The side dishes were a hit and miss. For example, the cucumber dish was soggy. I did mention to our server staff if there a cake or something I can buy for our anniversary (15th) on that day and he said no. It was sad they don't have anything available. A nice restaurant somewhere else would have been able to do something like a small cake with a anniversary writing. We make sure not to come here on our next...

Fun place. Great food. Reasonable price for AYCE KBBQ place. Galbi flavor is legit. Banchan is limited. Fish cake banchan is a little bit too salty for my taste.

They offer multiple options. The most expensive option comes with Waygu but I usually go with the regular with the reasons below

Too fattening especially when I already tend to overeat at an AYCE place.

We ate at one Michelin star steak restaurant in Singapore a couple of years ago, the owner told us there are only 15 restaurants in the world serving authentic Japanese Waygu beef and they have the certification framed at the restaurant to prove that they are one of the 15. The rest are just not J Waygu. But it doesn’t bother me. I was more concerned about the fat contents. It is ok if you are young and growing.

Our party also ordered the plain ramen and tofu stews. I mixed the two together and it was delish.

As for dessert, we ordered the Chinese sesame balls to end our meal. Not a Korean thing but who doesn’t like fresh sesame balls :)

They do not take reservation, you just have to show up, sign...