Yakiniku refers to grilled meat, which you’ll usually cook yourself. It’s particularly popular in Korean restaurants, which add unique spices and flavoring and even offer all-you-can-eat options. If you haven’t had yakiniku before, here are a few tips to ensure the best-tasting experience.

3 Tips for Enjoying Yakiniku

1. Choose Banchan to Complete Your Meal

Korean meals come with banchan, or side dishes, that complement the entrees. Many banchan are comprised of seasoned vegetables, such as  braised lotus roots, spicy radish salad, or stir-fried zucchini, offering a crunchy, refreshing contrast to the grilled meats. Kimchi is a must to add heat and pungent flavor; it pairs particularly well with pork belly.

2. Know the Meats

Yakiniku offers many types of meat, including beef, pork, and chicken. Some of the most popular kinds of beef include brisket, ribeye, and bulgogi, which is marinated and thinly sliced. First-timers may also enjoy pork belly and barbecue chicken as more familiar options. If you’re willing to be a bit more adventurous, beef tongue is delightfully chewy and quick to cook.

3. Grill in the Right Order

Your server will likely recommend the order in which to grill your selections. However, you should still have a basic knowledge of this process to ensure you cook the meats properly. For example, if you choose lean cuts or meats that haven’t been marinated, those should be grilled first. Doing so will prevent the marinades and fats of other selections from staining the grill and affecting the taste of plain, lean meats.

If you’re craving yakiniku, head to New Shilawon Korean Restaurant in Honolulu, HI. Since 1994, the family-owned and -operated restaurant has served lunch and dinner. They’re especially well-known for yakiniku and shabu shabu. Check out photos of their dishes by visiting their Facebook, Yelp, and Instagram pages, or review their menu online. To make a reservation, call (808) 944-8700.