Here is another great Korean BBQ restaurant located on the “non-busy” side of Hongdae. Although it was awhile ago when I visited here, I still remember it clearly because it was just that good. Their specialty items are the Modeum Bossam (Assorted BBQ Pork Belly) and Modeum Gui (Assorted Grilled BBQ) served with additional Ori Gui (Smoked Duck) and Soondae (Blood Sausage). In my honest opinion, there wasn’t anything eye-popping or extra special about their BBQ (little better than average), but when presented as a whole with their banchan side dishes, it becomes a whole new story. For example, they have the coolest ever Hwasan Gaeran Jjim (“Volcano” Steamed Eggs) that is truly a spectacle and worth seeing alone. It not only looks like a freaking volcano, but it has real steam flowing out from the center. The taste was spot on as well. The other banchan side dishes were the usual suspects, all were very tasty and fresh. Lastly, a unique-shaped cast-iron grill was another cool addition, having extra sides next to the base to hold some sauteed kimchi and some slices of onion. All in all, it was a very nice meal enjoyed with some great company.

I forgot to mention, this place gets pretty busy and crowded especially during peak hours. They’ve been showcased on several food programs and now have a regular fan base of customers and hardcore foodies . Sadly, that shaves off some points in the service department but still not bad compared to other BBQ joints. If you’re in the Hongdae area and in need of some quality BBQ, give this place a try.

Food: ★★★★ out of 5 stars

Service: ★★★ out of 5 stars

Ambiance: ★★★½ out of 5 stars

Value: ★★★★ out of 5 stars

Donko Bossam (돈코보쌈&생고기)

Address: 568-38 Yeonnam-dong, Seoul (서울 마포구 연남동 568-38)

Telephone: 02-333-9279

Directions: Come out Exit #2 at Hongik University Station (Green Line #2). There will be a Starbucks to your left, walk back until you reach the T-intersection. Take a right at the T-intersection and then another left at Hana Bank. Proceed about 2 blocks until you reach the larger, main street and take a left turn. Keep walking until you reach he restaurant, which will be on the right hand side with banners everywhere. Click here for an interactive map: https://goo.gl/maps/nlgtY