London’s Korean scene has matured far beyond BBQ alone.
From mom-and-pop institutions to sleek, modern dining rooms, these places show the breadth of hansik in the capital plus the people and stories behind the grills, pots and jars of kimchi.
1. KOBA - Fitzrovia’s Table-BBQ Pioneer (since 2005)
Who/History: Opened by restaurateur Linda Lee back in 2005, KOBA helped set the modern template for London Korean BBQ: premium cuts, built-in grill tables, and slick service. A two-decade revamp refreshed the space while keeping its soul intact.
What to order: Beef galbi (marinated short rib) or bulgogi cooked at the table; bibimbap and seafood pancake for sharing.
Vibe: Low-hanging extractors, polished wood, and a constant sizzle from the grills grown-up, date-night friendly.
Address: 11 Rathbone St, London W1T 1NA
2. YORI (Piccadilly) - Crowd-Pleaser With Serious Range
Who/History: The YORI group has rapidly expanded across London, with Piccadilly one of its busiest hubs. The concept keeps things traditional but approachable, think tableside BBQ, homestyle stews and plenty of banchan.
What to order: Samgyeopsal (pork belly BBQ), LA galbi, soondubu (soft tofu stew); banchan refills to taste.
Vibe: Buzzing rooms, fast-moving service, ideal for groups before/after the theatre.
Address: 6 Panton St, London SW1Y 4DL
3. Jin Go Gae - New Malden Institution
Who/History: A cornerstone of London’s “K-Town” in New Malden; family-run and beloved for generous BBQ sets and stews.
What to order: Beef tongue and pork belly on the grill; kimchi jjigae on colder days.
Vibe: Zero-pretence dining room, brisk service, big flavours.
Address: 270–272 Burlington Rd, New Malden KT3 4NL
4. DOTORI - Finsbury Park’s Cult Classic
Who/History: Family-run and tiny, DOTORI mixes Korean and Japanese favourites and has been a neighbourhood favourite for years (cash-friendly, walk-ins welcome).
What to order: Bulgogi, kimchi jjigae, japchae; set menus are great value.
Vibe: Cosy, unfussy, constantly busy with locals.
Address: 3 Stroud Green Rd, London N4 2DQ
5. GOGI - Little Venice Canal-Side BBQ
Who/History: A Maida Vale favourite whose name literally means “meat”, GOGI specialises in marinated cuts cooked over table grills, with canal views.
What to order: Beef galbi, pork collar, and a soju bucket for the table.
Vibe: Polished yet relaxed; good for celebrations.
Address: 451 Edgware Rd, London W2 1TH
6. ARANG - Soho Stalwart Near Golden Square
Who/History: Long-running Soho restaurant with a loyal Korean clientele; classic grills and hearty stews.
What to order: Spicy pork, soft tofu stew, seafood pancake.
Vibe: Lively, central, late-evening energy.
Address: 9 Golden Square, London W1F 9HZ
7. ASSA - Late-Night Favourite in Soho
Who/History: A laid-back, always-open-late classic that’s been fuelling Soho nights for years.
What to order: Kimchi jjigae, cheese tteok-bokki, army stew for groups.
Vibe: Compact, buzzy, great post-theatre or after drinks.
Address: 23 Romilly St, London W1D 5AG/5AQ (venue signage shows both; Maps resolves either)
8. Korean Dinner Party - Kingly Court’s K-Town Glam
Who/History: Opened summer 2021, this LA-Koreatown-inspired spot from the TĀTĀ Eatery duo brings fusion plates, cocktails and a party playlist to Carnaby.
What to order: Corn dog, gochujang cheeseburger bao, kimchi stone-pot rice; playful, bold flavours.
Vibe: Neon signage, hip-hop soundtrack, prime date-and-mates energy.
Address: Top Floor, Kingly Court, Carnaby, London W1B 5PW
9. KOI or BIBIMBAP SOHO (tie) - Quick Comfort, Central
KOI Ramen Bar (Brixton)
Who/History: Launched by Kanji Furukawa to deliver affordable ramen and Korean-adjacent comfort sides in markets and kiosks.
Order: Spicy stews, fried chicken, kimchi sides with a beer.
Website: (N/A Japanese-leaning brand; included here for central, casual eats)
BIBIMBAP SOHO
Who/History: Colourful, fast-casual spot built around its namesake dish.
Order: Dolsot (stone-pot) bibimbap, japchae, spicy pork.
Address: 11 Greek St, London W1D 4DJ
