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Kansas City Isn't Just About American BBQ. This Korean BBQ Spot Is Taking KC by Storm

Kansas City Food + Drink
by Matador Creators Dec 14, 2023

Kansas City is known for its BBQ. But with so many options, where do you even start? Well, Kobi-Q might not be what you think of when you imagine traditional Kansas City BBQ, but we promise it’s even better (it’s one of the most popular BBQ spots in the city for a reason). Located in the Crossroads district, the restaurant specializes in Korean BBQ and Asian-American street foods, offering a creative fusion of flavors that has made it a local favorite.

The restaurant’s menu offers a variety of options, including the classic KOBI-Q BBQ Beef in a soy garlic marinade and the Tonkatsu Friet Cutlet, a Japanese Panko Fried Chicken or pork cutlet. One of the standout dishes is the Korean fried chicken, which is served with a sweet garlic glaze and spicy Sichuan sauce. In addition to its BBQ offerings, Kobi-Q also features a sushi bar, adding another layer of culinary diversity to its menu. Indeed, from classic Korean BBQ dishes to innovative sushi creations, there’s something for everyone here.

Where else to try Korean BBQ in Kansas City

Kobi-Q isn’t the only restaurant for Korean BBQ in Kansas City, either. For those looking for an all-you-can-eat BBQ experience (and why wouldn’t you?), Choga Korean Restaurant is the place to go. It holds the distinction of being the only Korean restaurant in the KC area offering this service. And if you’re interested in trying popular Korean street foods and elements of Korean BBQ, Chingu is worth a visit.

Indeed, the tradition of Korean BBQ in the United States has seen a surge in popularity in recent years, becoming a beloved dining experience across the country. Unlike American BBQ, which often uses large cuts of meat like brisket, whole chickens, or pork ribs, Korean BBQ commonly utilizes small, tender cuts like beef tongue, beef short ribs, pork belly, and chicken. The communal aspect of cooking and sharing food at the table is an essential part of the Korean BBQ culture, making it not just a meal, but a social event. From the rituals, such as the eldest or most senior person leading the start of the meal, to the pairing of BBQ with soju, many Korean BBQ restaurants in the US continue to honor its cultural roots while adapting to the American palate.

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