Gen Korean BBQ

When Gen Korean BBQ House opened in Tukwila in 2024, it had already gained a reputation for popularizing Korean food in cities across the United States. The California-based restaurant, founded by two Korean immigrants, is known for its all-you-can-eat options, fun, social atmosphere and delicious fare. Specializing in generous portions of fresh meat and seafood, as well as Korean ban-chan (side dishes), it’s perfect for groups and celebratory get-togethers where sharing is part of the fun.

NEED TO KNOW:

• Do-It-Yourself Dining: Preparing your own food is part of the experience! Order fresh meat, seafood and veggies, then cook it up on a piping hot grill right on your table, exactly as you like it. (Servers will periodically replace your grill with a fresh one).
  
• Popular Dishes: Check out the Gen Signature Galbi, a marinated bone-in short-rib, and Korean Fried Chicken, fried and marinated with the restaurant’s signature sweet and sour sauce. People also rave about the bulgogi (thin, marinated slices of meat).
  
• Drinks Aplenty: The drink menu is as extensive as the food, with many options for beer, cocktails and, of course, soju (a popular Korean spirit). Soju is very popular in Korean culture and sharing it with others has significance beyond getting tipsy – the youngest person at the table traditionally pours and repours everyone’s glasses. It’s commonly enjoyed neat and chilled, though many also mix a few shots of it into a light beer (referred to as Somaek).

GOOD TO KNOW:

• Full Lunch Service: This restaurant can get busy on weekend evenings (and for good reason!) but if you want a quieter vibe, visit at lunchtime.
  
• Great for Groups: The Tukwila location is spacious, with plenty of tables that can accommodate a group. Keep it in mind for the next birthday or celebratory occasion.