The delicious Korean BBQ is bringing life to Washington just as it does to the rest of the world. The banchan (side dishes), the grill, and the mouthwatering aromas alone are an experience to savor. But in all honesty, there are ways to enjoy BBQ in Washington State without feeling like there is a pocket gun held against you.
You do not have to worry about spending all of your savings when eating out. Spending less and indulging in the Korean BBQ is doable with creativity and planning. Here is the complete guide to enjoying Korean BBQ on a budget.
Why Korean BBQ Is So Popular
Every meal is an experience, and Korean BBQ lifts it to the next level. There is so much joy in marinating and grilling their delicious meat alongside flavorful banchan side dishes with your friends and family. Add the fun of sharing with friends and family, the burst of flavors, and hearing the meat sizzling, and it makes for an experience that is hard to forget.
It gets even more appealing; it’s a shared experience. The idea of sharing a table of food and wholesale soft drinks laughter gets so much more than just a dinner. Whether it’s to celebrate someone’s birthday or friends just catching up, Korean BBQ is delightful at any time. Now, how do we make it cheaper?
Savoring Korean BBQ Without Breaking the Bank
Washington presents quite a lot of options for Korean BBQ in which some won’t cost you an arm and a leg. Begin looking for these gems in populated areas. A lot of restaurants provide all-you-can-eat (AYCE) deals which are easier on the pocket.
Look for places in Bellevue or Tacoma for some reasonable rates. For instance, some places serve cooked food for lunch which is everything you enjoy, but at a lower price compared to dinner. Don’t forget to look for reviews on Yelp or Google because they tell you about good offers.
Saving Costs Dining Out
Intelligent approaches are one of the best ways to save money in Korean dining places.
- Off-Peak Hours are Your Best Friend
A lot of Korean BBQ restaurants tend to charge less during lunchtime or early evening. This way you will still enjoy the food, but it will be lighter in your pocket.
- Wisely Share Plates
If the AYCE style doesn’t suit you try selecting a few dishes to share that include proteins such as pork belly, short ribs, and chicken and pair them with the complimentary banchan provided in each meal.
- Search for BYOB Restaurants
There are certain places that allow you to bring your own drinks, and this is the best way to sip your desired soju or beer without paying overpriced restaurant prices.
- Pass Over the Extras
When eating out, add owns like kimchi pancakes and steamed egg seem appealing but they can become pricey. Focus on the important items to aid in cutting costs.
Host Your Own Korean BBQ at Home
Whether you are hosting or celebrating an occasion, Korean BBQ is always a great option. The best part is you can now make it at home, which is cost effective as well.
Purchase a small tabletop grill which is available online or in local stores and a few other things from a Korean grocery store such as marinated meats, siamang (Korean BBQ sauce), and fresh veggies. It not only helps to save a lot of money but is a great way to spend time with loved ones.
Tip: A number of Korean groceries in Washington stock affordable, ready-to-grill meat. Furthermore, you can easily find online guides for endless banchan preparation: kimchi, pickled radish, and bean sprout.
Add Drinks to Your BBQ for The Better Value
Korean barbeque must be enjoyed with a drink, and you do not have to overspend on proper pairing. Soju and beer are some of the most popular options, both of which can be conveniently purchased from the local stores without breaking the bank. If you are slim on cash but hosting, feel free to experiment with some homemade Korean-style cocktails. Koreans have barley tea, and for something more refreshing, sparkling water with lime will do the trick.
Use Dining Apps and Earn Reward
Do not forget to take benefit of discounts on dining apps like Groupon recommend when going on your Korean barbeque quest. Many places have rewards loyal programs where you get points for visiting and automatically translated to dishes, or discount on the meals that follow.
Trying Out the Private Chef Service has Its Benefits
Are you trying to make your dining experience even better? Consider having a private chef in Hollywood. This may sound posh, but you can get a private chef who specializes in Korean dishes. With one, you can enjoy the delicious BBQ right from the comfort of your home. Perfect for special events or when you want to avoid the hustle and bustle of the city.
In Conclusion
You don’t need to break the bank while trying out Korean barbecue in Washington. Whether you are trying out new, cheaper spots, wanting a BBQ night at home with friends, or using the dining applications, there are a million ways to enjoy this treat without going over the budget. Now, you can hang out with friends, start the grill, and build those bonds without splashing out the cash.
Share with us down in the comments, which Korean BBQ spot is your favorite while on a budget in Washington. We would love to hear some names.
