If you’ve wanted to experience the best in Asian cuisine, but have never tasted yakiniku, you’re missing out! This Korean BBQ favorite is great fun both to prepare and eat. If you’re not sure about what it is, how to order it, or how to eat it, don’t worry. New Shilawon Korean Restaurant of Honolulu, HI, shares some helpful information for your first trip to a yakiniku restaurant.

What Is Yakiniku?

‘Yakiniku’ refers specifically to the different types of thinly sliced meat, but it can also include vegetables. At yakiniku restaurants, tables are equipped with grills in them so customers can cook their own food. These grills are serviced by the wait staff, so you don’t have to worry about them. While many enjoy the process of conveniently grilling their own food, eating a fresh, hot meat right off the grill is its own delight.

Yakiniku restaurants offer a wide variety of meats, including different cuts of beef, pork, and chicken. If you want to try something outside of the box, go with the beef tongue or pork offal. You can also order from a selection of veggies including onions, mushrooms, squash and more. Finish it off with a steaming bowl of miso soup or rice.

How Do You Order It?

Most Yakiniku restaurants, like New Shilawon Korean Restaurant, are all-you-can-eat, so over-ordering is frowned on. Select from their special combinations of meat, veggies, and rice or soup. The meat and vegetables are usually brought out first and then, once you’ve filled up on that, the rice or soup is presented as a “shime,” or a finishing dish. This cleans the palate of all the strong flavors of the meat and sauces.

How Do You Grill It?

Since yakiniku meat comes very thinly sliced, it doesn’t take long to cook, especially over a hot fire. Grill just a few slices at a time so you can eat it fresh, and you won’t risk accidentally overcooking anything. Be careful not to flip the meat too early. If it isn’t cooked thoroughly on one side, you’ll have to flip it several times and that could dry the meat out and make it tough.

If you’re looking for some authentic Korean food, experience some of the best in international cuisine at New Shilawon Korean Restaurant. Their food exceeds expectations in both taste and quality. You can email them to make a reservation or call them at (808) 944-8700. Learn more and see their menu at their website.