This is the second post from the Korean food category on this blog.

I still do not like the whole Korean atmosphere (posters of Kpop stars on the wall and all) but for the food I shall tolerate.

I have been on the lookout for charcoal grill BBQ and even in Japanese Yakiniku restaurants, you may not find that. Upon hearing that Wang Dae Bak uses charcoal grill, I decided it was worth to tolerate the K-pop propaganda during dinner and just go for it.

Reservations are a must. I tried to book for the Amoy Street outlet but it was fully booked when I called a day earlier. The China Square Central outlet was much bigger and had more vacancies. I confirmed with them that charcoal grill was used and what offered was are the same.

On the day itself, I witnessed walk in customers being rejected because reservations were full for the night. Therefore, always make a reservation.

This is the menu for BBQ. Honestly, the selection was quite disappointing in the sense that it is catered for bigger groups. They do not have half portions or mixed platters which would be ideal if your party size is small and they have a rule that you must order at least 2 full portions.

Here’s proof of it being 100% charcoal. They will place this pot of charcoal on your table after you have ordered. There’s no electrical link to it so it isn’t one of those places which uses charcoal only for the smell but runs on gas in actual fact.

There was supposed to be suction hoods at every indoor table, but when I told them to turn mine on, they told me mine wasn’t working. I was quite appalled at that. Most other tables had theirs working fine. They didn’t have the decency to inform me before hand or ask if I would prefer an outdoor table instead (which I would, if I knew it wasn’t working). No apologies or compensation was offered on their own accord which shows that they do not value customer service.

The side dishes are pretty unappealing in my opinion. I’m glad they didn’t provide too many.

The side of the grill is made to cook omelette which I found to be normal as well.

Cold Noodle Soup – $10.00++

I’m not sure what this is supposed to be because it wasn’t my order but it’s quite edible.

Beef Tongue – $28.00++

This is a staple when having Japanese BBQ. I’m not sure if it applies to Korean BBQ but I just had to have it anyway. As mentioned they do not allow half portions or mixed platters so it’s kind of hard to finish everything by myself.

And no, it is not disgusting. The ingredients at this restaurant is pretty fresh and is of good quality.

Those who have not tried it before seriously should. That’s what yakiniku/BBQ is all about.

Beef Shortribs – $28.00++

This cut is also known as Karubi and is probably the most suitable cut for Yakiniku/ BBQ. Again, the quality here is good and the beef was fresh and well marbled.

Pork Belly – $18.00++

The pork belly here was served in thick slices. I was actually expecting it to be thinly sliced so this was quite a disappointment.

The charcoal ensures gentle looking and nothing got burnt. The juices were sealed in as well.

The enoki mushrooms cooks well in the residual oil from the meats and was very tasty.

*****

Ambiance: 6.5/10

Food: 8.5/10

Value: 7/10

Overall: minus the Kpop propaganda, the lack of options for small groups and less than satisfactory service, this is one of the better BBQ places around.

*****

Wang Dae Bak Korean BBQ Restaurant