This might be the cheapest Korean BBQ in Singapore: We rate a $6 & a $79 KBBQ
If you live in the East (or not), this one's for you.
When’s the last time your friends asked you to have KBBQ at somewhere other than Tanjong Pagar?? This week, we explored a couple of the East side’s KBBQ offerings and compared a $6 budget-friendly hole-in-the-wall joint and a luxurious Wagyu barbecue house.
Seorae Korean Charcoal BBQ
We tried Seorae’s new $79 Wagyu Beef Jinkkotsal, a Tajima Wagyu Boneless short rib with a marbling score of 7 (MB7).
This was a beautiful cut with an abundant marbling that we got to experience cooking over the charcoal grill. Accompanying the Wagyu was also a fair selection of free-flow banchan (sides) . However, it's worth noting that while the quality is exceptional, the portion size (150g) may leave some diners wanting more, particularly given the price point.
If you’re looking for a more premium and authentic Korean barbecue experience, we love Seorae’s charcoal grill and prime cuts.
Eonni Korean BBQ
This MIGHT be Singapore’s cheapest KBBQ place.
At just $6 per portion (min. order of 2 servings), this got us 200-300g of what was frankly quite a decent, good-quality and JUICY cut of lean marinated beef. Because this was grilled on top of baking paper on a hot plate instead of over charcoal, it lacked the signature smoky characteristic of authentic Korean barbecue. However, the beef was of decent and palatable quality considering its low price point. We also loved that there was a HUGE variety of homemade free-flow banchan to choose from.
Also, if location and ambience are a dealbreaker for you, Eonni is set in an open-air coffeeshop. This really didn't bother us since the dining area was well ventilated anyways.
The Winner
No prizes for guessing our winner. While Seorae offers premium and indulgent cuts, we can’t deny how much we love getting a good deal. Eonni Korean BBQ is great if you’re looking for a highly affordable meal that doesn’t break the bank, and yet still satisfies all your Korean barbecue cravings. What really tipped the scales for us was the generous selection of made-from-scratch banchan, that felt like it was made for us by the Korean mother we’ve never had.
Find them here:
Seorae Korean Charcoal BBQ (Tampines Mall)
4 Tampines Central 5, Tampines Mall #B1-02
Singapore 529510
(6 locations islandwide)
Eonni Korean BBQ Bedok
418 Bedok North Ave 2, #01-97
Singapore 460418