Daikon Korean BBQ — Restaurant in Vallejo

I wanted to like this more than I did. The food was delicious. The experience was complicated and exhausting.

We were very clear when we were seated that we were first timers and looking for guidance, tips and tricks. "I got ya", Marco said. I quickly learned that was his default answer to everything. It didn't mean "I'm here to help." It was a version of "no problem" even if it was.

He didn't explain the cooking process and how grill plates would be traded out. He cranked the grill as high as it would go, and didn't explain we could adjust temps ourselves for different foods. At some point the manager came by and turned it down. That was a great clue. I took note and was able to increase the heat again when needed.

ALL the food hit the table at one time. No coursing of apps and entrees or things that would have similar cooking times/temps. There wasn't a tour of the condiments, many of which were new to us. He pushed rice, that was cold and sticky and probably had a purpose in forming and holding food that wasn't explained. The cheap scissors provided were really not up to dividing the bone in short ribs... And crass Americans that we are, struggled with eating large sizzling pieces of delicious meat without a knife. Two of our party weren't familiar with chopsticks, so we requested forks. One didn't like to eat with her fingers, so meat was difficult to navigate, and Marco "guided" us almost exclusively to large cuts of meat. Flavors were good, but there was a lot of fat and gristle, even for the thin slices.

The wine list was pitiful for a location in wine country. The manager opened the wine and actually joked that he wasn't good at it. I'd say he has never tried to learn... I was worried he'd hurt himself on the jagged foil collar he created. All serving staff should know how to open and serve wine in wine country.

Bussers were pushy and borderline rude.

We didn't try cocktails. Non-alcoholic bevs were primarily highly sweetened products, so we didn't try those. Hot tea was available.

I'd go back now that I've done it once, but here are some tips. Get chopsticks and forks, perhaps bring your own knife. You'll need all the tools. More than were provided. If you are concerned with food cross contamination, this isn't your place.

Plan your own coursing. Order as you need it. Remember to order all the dipping sauces up front. Skip the rice unless you have a plan for using to form balls or something.

Ask how appetizers are presented. Some were one serving, some were four. Not all were suitable for sharing. Don't get pushed into ordering multiples unless you're sure, you can always order another.

I'm not sure about corkage, but if you care about wine you should plan to bring your own. They seem to have a full bar, but I wouldn't expect finely crafted cocktails.

5 stars for food flavors 2 stars for service. They failed to help, made things difficult when simple guidance could have made it so much better. 1 star for a manager who isn't trained himself and can't open a bottle of wine.

5 stars to me for having enough cooking experience to get us all fed. Next time I'll just invite our friends...

Daikon Vallejo Korean Buffet. We shared the soft opening moment on 15th Nov. The pandemic and tipping dilemma can dampen the eating out experience; but I can say we lifted our guard and ventured into the Korean grilling experience. There is a 2 hour all you can eat experience so great idea to plan your choices appetizers, protein, sides. My party was two; we did two rounds, ordering the food was enough with Korean healthy side dishes one requirement is YOU pay for the amount of waste not eaten.  The manager was a great fluence with customer service even our server Chris was great; checked in on our needs, refills, reordering as part of grilling all you can eat choices. The clock starts 2 hours after the order is placed with the server.  More splendid experience is knowing your Korean dishes for grilling; timing the cooking makes an enjoyable or burnt experience. Definitely share the grilling otherwise it will be a resentful eating, takers and no givers. This is to cook or be cooked on the grill and learn quality food with healthy eating. Put thicker foods in the center/ thinner away and the ready to devour on the edge of the grill. Eat grilled stuff with chopstick pinch of side dish (Banchi) Balance the greasy that may come off grilling. Also clean the rich full flavor by eating the sides and healthy for guts. yes, it may be pricey but for cost for Health, Fresh ingredients, cooking and clean atmosphere, customer service is pluses worthy for the end price. Our food order appetizer: seafood shrimp in kimchi soup perfect for cold weather, crispy calamari, crispy chicken. The former was not cooked all the way but putting it on the grill fixed that issue all well. Protein: chicken chili, pork jowl, garlic butter prawns, spicy Bulgogi marinaded prime steak, rib fingers Side dishes: fish cake, assorted vegs, mushroom, Fish cakes is thin and lite very tasty vegs and mushrooms tastes much better grilled than raw. Healthy gastronomy is enough that you can get your blood work done the next day and still get a good bill of health., We should hashtag how many patrons have the cleanest empties including licking your plate. Suggest a seasonal soup or dish (for cold / warm weather) to warm up our Eating hearts? Plus one said to add we were so thrilled with the experience we got home and fell asleep to dreams for future experience at...

If you're craving an exceptional Korean BBQ experience in Vallejo, Daikon Korean BBQ is a must-visit destination. From the moment you step into the restaurant, you're greeted with a warm, inviting ambiance that sets the tone for an unforgettable dining experience.

The Food Daikon's menu is a true celebration of Korean BBQ mastery. The variety and quality of the meats are impeccable, with every cut perfectly marinated and bursting with flavor. The beef bulgogi and galbi (short ribs) were melt-in-your-mouth tender, while the pork belly offered just the right balance of smoky and savory. The seafood options, like the marinated shrimp and squid, were equally fresh and perfectly seasoned.

What sets Daikon apart is their attention to detail: the banchan (side dishes) were plentiful and vibrant, ranging from crisp kimchi to creamy potato salad, all replenished generously. Their dipping sauces, particularly the ssamjang and sesame oil with salt, perfectly complemented the grilled meats.

The Service The staff at Daikon delivers top-tier service. Our server Stephanie L. was attentive without being intrusive, taking the time to explain the menu and grilling techniques for first-timers. The grills were swapped out frequently to ensure a clean, smoke-free experience, and every request was met with a smile. Stephanie L. strikes the perfect balance between efficiency and genuine hospitality, making you feel like a valued guest.

The Atmosphere Daikon offers a modern yet cozy setting, complete with sleek grills at every table and well-thought-out ventilation, ensuring a comfortable dining experience. The vibe is lively and social, making it an ideal spot for gatherings with friends or family. The tasteful decor, coupled with the gentle hum of sizzling meat, creates an inviting and dynamic atmosphere.

Overall Experience Daikon Korean BBQ in Vallejo is a gem that combines high-quality ingredients, exceptional service, and a welcoming atmosphere. Whether you're a KBBQ enthusiast or a first-timer, this restaurant delivers a top-tier dining experience that leaves you eagerly planning your next visit.

Rating: 5/5** If you're in Vallejo, don't miss the chance to savor the flavors and hospitality of Daikon. It's more than just a meal—it's a culinary journey worth every bite. Ask For...