KBBQ: Yum, yum gimme some

Choeng Wun KBBQ (5/5) I need to preface this review with an apology to all vegetarians and vegans because the following will be an ode to KBBQ…

Why, oh why, must you tempt me with your meaty, marinated goodness? Why must your perfectly marbled galbi caramelize to a savory nirvana? You know it’s good when even the lowly, near fat-free bulgogi is excellent, and perhaps, the star of the show.

Solid chap chae and other banchan goodies at the buffet

I grew up on LA’s Koreatown and everyone knows this neighborhood is the second coming of Seoul. I’ve been to KBBQ joints in the Bay and LA and this is the best I’ve had thus far considering quality, flavor, portions (unlimited!) and price. It’s been almost 5 years since my first taste of Choeng Wun and 6 birthdays, one anniversary and countless date nights later, it’s still as good as it gets with zero chance of diminishing returns.

Short ribs, boneless ribs, spicy chicken, spicy pork, bulgogi, galbi et al.

Yes, there are other more luxurious places with marquee names and a following that swears by them. I’m not one of them. I’ve been to them and I haven’t been impressed. Mostly depressed because I passed up a guaranteed great meal and greater time by not going to Choeng Wun to “try something new — maybe it will be better.” No, it’s not and it wasn’t. This is a hole in the wall joint that doesn’t need to floss to bring in the customers.

The strip mall where gluttonous dreams happen

Come hungry, ready to grill and throw down a couple bottles of Jinro Soju (a pricy $10/bottle). To take your meat to an alternate dimension, request the following: garlic, jalapeno slivers, peppered/salted sesame oil. Now dip that sizzling morsel just a bit and pop it in your mouth. Enjoy. AYCE lunch runs about $15 and AYCE dinner will set you back $25/pp.

Tip for the girls: schedule your visit on nights you’re schedule to wash and blow straight your hair because it’s gonna get smokey. Tips for KBBQ junkies, Choeng Wun has a frequent diner card for loyal patrons. Ten stamps and the 11th visit is free — AND, that includes the extra two pant sizes you’ll go up.

Choeng Wun Korean BBQ, 944 N Western Ave., Los Angeles, 90029, 323-465-7590