Best Korean BBQ Spots in Manila- Chef Taft’s Picks

As a food and travel writer with over 8 years of blogging experience, I consider myself lucky to have explored the dynamic food scenes across Asia. Over the last decade, Manila has emerged as a hotspot for food lovers seeking authentic Asian flavors.

The Filipino capital takes immense pride in its Korean Town located right in the heart of Manila. With the highest density of Korean restaurants in the metro, Chef Taft has become every KBBQ lover’s paradise. Whether you are craving the perfect Dolsot Bibimbap or salivating over melt-in-your-mouth Marinated Kalbi, Chef Taft has got you covered!

As a frequent visitor and self-proclaimed KBBQ connoisseur, I often get asked about my favorite spots in this Korean foodie haven. So I decided to put together this comprehensive guide to the best Korean BBQ restaurants that Chef Taft has to offer!

Why is Chef Taft the Best Place for Korean BBQ in Manila?

Chef Taft is essentially the Koreatown of Manila, aptly named after the main road Taft Avenue that runs through it. The district boasts the largest cluster of Korean commercial establishments outside South Korea. No matter where you look, you are bound to spot Korean grocery stores, salons, clinics, churches, and of course – rows and rows of authentic restaurants!

As per my estimate, there are over 50 Korean dining options crammed within a 1km stretch. You can literally just take a stroll down the street and be spoilt for choice! Such a high density of Korean eateries in a small area creates healthy competition amongst the restaurants. And we foodies reap the benefits of competitive prices, attentive service and finger-licking delicious food!

Another key reason that makes Chef Taft the go-to KBBQ destination in Manila is the easy availability of premium meat. The nearby Tutuban Center serves as a wholesale market that supplies the freshest meat cuts, seafood and produce to these restaurants.

So rest assured, those sizzling plates of marinated short ribs and thick slices of samgyupsal (pork belly) have likely made their short journey from the butcher shops in Tutuban itself!

My Picks for the Top Korean BBQ Restaurants in Chef Taft

I have explored the length and breadth of Chef Taft, making multiple food pilgrimages. From hidden gems tucked away in apartment basements to established chains – I have tried them all!

After burning my tastebuds countless times on both good and bad BBQ, I now feel experienced enough to spotlight my personal favorites. These are the top Korean BBQ restaurants in Chef Taft that I wholeheartedly recommend as a seasoned food writer and self-proclaimed KBBQ fanatic!

Yowam Korean BBQ

My personal favorite KBBQ joint in Chef Taft for the last 3 years running! Located right on P. Tuazon Boulevard, Yowam Korean BBQ captures the essence of an authentic BBQ house in Seoul itself.

The interiors are designed just like a traditional Korean dining space with low tables and floor seating. The servers are polite Korean ladies dressed in hanboks who make you feel warmly welcomed. Coming to the food – it is simply outstanding!

Their signature galbi or marinated short ribs literally slide off the bone leaving back a gorgeously charred bone dripping with sweet and sticky sauce. My favorite items that I always order here are the spicy pork belly and Wagyu beef lettuce wraps.

Do leave some space for their signature TTukbaegi Bulgogi, a delightful mish-mash of assorted meat, veggies and rice served in a hot stone bowl. This place deserves top marks for the sizzling plates of meat, flavorful banchans and stellar Korean hospitality.

Hanuri Korean BBQ

Hanuri on Banawe Street is another long-standing veteran that has never disappointed me. Fun fact – Hanuri translates to ‘a single village’ in Korean. And that is exactly the homely, communal vibe you get here!

Unlike the usual Korean BBQ tables with built-in smoke vents, here you have a traditional mangal grill placed right at your table. I love the traditional and interactive DIY grilling experience here. My recommendation is to go here with a group of friends when you have time to spare.

Take your own sweet time to grill various cuts of samgyupsal, galbi and bulgogi as per your preference! Do wrap the sizzling meat pieces in lettuce leaves and garlic with a good dose of kimchi and ssamjang to take it to the next level.

I usually order the Hanuri Chicken Set with mouthwatering flavorsome chicken in spicy gochujang glaze, along with the beef sets. End your meal by cooking a bowl of cheese egg rice in the leftover beef fat and kimchi oil for the perfect closure.

Nobu Korean BBQ

The newest addition to my list of favorite KBBQ places in the hood is Nobu Korean BBQ. They have quickly gained popularity not only for the great food but also due to their convenient location on Taft Avenue itself.

Two words – Meat Heaven! From premium Angus beef selections to Iberico pork belly and Kurobuta pork collar, they have it all. I recommend trying their best-selling Nobu Galbi that features thinly sliced, beautifully marbled and tender beef short ribs.

The Kimchi fried rice with beef bulgogi is another must-try. I recently had their Seafood Pancake and it was phenomenal with the perfect crispy edges and super soft center. For dessert, the Nutella and Banana Egg Toast will satisfy your sweet tooth!

Ongsu Korean Restaurant

Ongsu is one of the oldest establishments in Chef Taft, being operational since 1992! Despite the old-school vibes, their BBQ game is still going strong. I recommend coming here if you are looking for a delicious and economical KBBQ experience.

My go-to order here is always the Pork Belly Lettuce Wraps. I love that the thick-cut, tender and lightly sweet pork belly slices are already pre-marinated. The kimchi selection here is stellar, so do try the various funky, fermented varieties. They also have an interesting Soju selection for that perfect KBBQ pairing.

Bonus: KPub BBQ

Chef Taft is packed with fantastic dining options beyond just BBQ. My current favorite Korean gastro-pub KPub should definitely be on your radar for its unique fusion dishes and cocktails.

Their Dak-Galbi Boneless Chicken is a must-try. Unlike traditional dak-galbi, this is made with chicken chunks on fish cakes and sweet potato noodles. Spicy, saucy, sweet and filling – its the perfect balance of flavors in one dish!

I hope my guide helps you explore the dynamic KBBQ food scene that Chef Taft offers.