We are super loyal to another KBBQ but decided to try this place and I think it's my new favorite! The meat is decent, it's not a HUGE selection but it's all the main favorites! What really impressed me was the sides and extras! You're not just eating meat all night, they have every side you could ever want! Even noodles and broth to make soup! All types of veggies and pineapple to grill, dumplings calamari rice all kinds of appetizers.. multiple sauces. I was in awe and can't wait to go back! Plus so friendly!!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
JOnas
Hi,
We wanted to go dine there but when we got there we saw your notice in the door. I hope everything is well.
Because i was very desperate for Korean bbq we ended up going to another place on Central, am sure i dont need to give you their name.
Any how, it seem like a good chance to broaden my bbq experience but boy was i wrong.
For starters if i wanted to eat delicious short ribs (because really why else you want to eat anything else) we had to pay the so called king price of $30 per person.
I dont mind paying for food as long as its worth it.... so am not cheap, but as soon as saw the servings and the quality of the food i knew i was in for a rude awakening.
I ordered my usual sides, lettuce (none available) pickled cucumbers (none available) for the kimchee i was brought the serving of what seem to be a single bite, so i asked for more. I also asked for onions and jalapeño pepers to grill, just to be served aged items that were more likely from the day before.
I was trying to stay calm but when i saw the rice, it was literally the bottom of the pot, it even had that bottom film.
I noticed that my burner was not really doing the job, and the meat was not cooking fast enough ( after eating at your place and living in Korean town most of my childhood you could say i know how to cook the meats) it turned out the gas tank was empty so they had to change it.
The kid that brought the meats spilled raw meat juice all over my arm and hand, the kid that was fixing my grill flipped over my
Kimchee all over the menu, and another kid drop the meat so hard that almost spilled raw juice all over my food.
The meat, well, spicy chicken and beef, not really spicy, short ribs were not seasoned enough and out of two of the portion one was not eatable because it was mostly fat with no meat.
The so called cali meat was plain and so the spicy beef.
Over all, i had a mediocre experience that cost me a lot more than what i pay at your place.
The cherry on top was that there was no fruits or any desert as part of the buffet, and at the end, the tip was already charged.
Why am i telling you all this? Because it reminded me of why i am super loyal to you guys, even more than LAs.
I have been going to KG for the last ten years, my daughter has grown up in your tables, with James (i think) carrying her around the restaurant and making her special chopsticks when she was three yrs old.
So thank you, thank you for your quality of food, your quality of service, and your quality of everything.
Knowing the sad state of service at these commercial overpriced cold bbq places i want to ask you to keep providing us with such good food and culture.
I hope everything is ok and hope to see you guys very very soon.
Thanks a million,
Jonas Chavez
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Alonzo Ortiz
It is a very nice and hospitable space all the employees are kind and sweet to us as well. Definitely would rate higher.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Bianca Moreno
I loved dining here! I've come here quite a few times aside from today.
Yuming is a great server. She was attentive, helpful, and very friendly. She is the the type of person to jump in when you need assistance. I hope she gets the recognition she deserves.
I also like how you press a button now for a grill change. I was always used to the staff coming around and changing it periodically.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Ed Serna
Plenty of excellent meat choices. Reasonable price. Good service.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Racine Ocean
My first time here and first time trying K bbq.
The servers were nice and explained everything well.
Would like to see more seafood options as a pescatarian.
Would improve the appearance of the restaurant.
Would go back and already told a friend.
Atmosphere: 4
Food: 4
Service: 5
Jay
Koreana Grill has been a longtime staple in Riverside, and I’ve been coming here for years — even back when James used to run it! While the neighborhood around it has changed and you’ll notice some homeless activity nearby, don’t let that stop you. The Korean food here is still some of the best around.
The parking can get pretty rough, especially on busy weekends, but once you’re inside, it’s worth it. The interior got a bit of a modern refresh several years ago, and while some areas look a little cluttered, the overall vibe is still warm and welcoming. I wish they cleaned the clutter behind the payment counter a bit- as it would give it a more cleaner vibe. Also, they did block off a section behind one of the buffet counters where a staff member now preps and cuts meat, but the layout is mostly the same as it’s always been.
Customer service is solid — nothing overly fancy, but the staff is attentive and helpful. On busy days, you’ll need to sign in and wait to be called. The wait just depends on how packed it is, but once your table is ready, a server will take you to your seat and get your drink order. After that, you’re free to grab a plate and start picking your food.
The grill at your table is the real experience. As you cook the meat, the staff will replace the grill when it gets too burned, either when you ask or if they notice. It’s a nice touch that keeps the experience pleasant. The bulgogi is my go-to — it’s delicious every time. I also love their kimchi, which always hits the spot.
This place is a fantastic intro to Korean BBQ for first-timers. If you’re bringing family or friends who’ve never been, especially if they’re not familiar with this style of dining, just explain the process and the meat— you grill your food at the table and the bulgogi is kind of like carne asada in style but different flavor, and once people understand, they tend to love it. There are other meats like spicy chicken which is equally as delicious in flavor. There are many options to choose from at the buffet counters. They also have brown rice and white rice. And when you are finished, they have soft serve ice cream too.
Overall, I highly recommend Koreana Grill. It’s been here for years, and it’s still going strong. Definitely a Riverside classic.
Atmosphere: 4
Food: 5
Service: 5
Laura Montano
First time going to a korean bbq buffet They offer set pricing with top meats that you request from your server but your buffet bar carries more variety of meats for you to add to your grill and cook All the side dishes you expect in a buffet were there Price under $40 for dinner
Atmosphere: 3
Food: 5
Service: 3
Agus Perdana Kristian
Everything is good, but the options of the meat is not a lot
Atmosphere: 4
Food: 4
Service: 4
Edgar Diaz
I love this place. I've been eating here for over 6 years now and is by far my go-to Korean BBQ spot.
It's easy to brush off saying that the food is good since it's food you cook yourself. But I've had bad and unsatisfying K-BBQ before. But ive never felt this way with Koreana Grill. I've always left quite satisfied.
Another thing i love that has absolutely spoiled me is the buffet style. I literally can't go to other places without being annoyed about the service times and portion sizes. So buffet style is a big thumbs up for me.
The only thing i have to worry about is the cut meat being replenished, drink refills and grill changes which the staff do a very good job at servicing.
Otherwise, staff is friendly.
Washrooms are generally clean. But i can't comment on the upkeep through the day since i only ever go at noon times when they open.
I don't really partake in the vegetable options so i can't really comment on the options. But i will say i enjoy the spicy tofu soup.
Anyway, I've been enjoying going to this place for the past 6 years and will continue to do so. Its easily my most frequent spot and i recommend it.
First time at a Korean restaurant. The food was good.
Atmosphere: 4
Food: 4
Service: 4
Silvia Hernandez
😋 delicious first time here I had a great experience
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Jr Gutierrez
Great tasting food. One of my favorite KBBQ spots around.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Gina H
This place is perfect. They make tasty sidedishes and the meat is good, it's consistent and authentic. Well worth the price and the people who work there are warm and friendly.
We are super loyal to another KBBQ but decided to try this place and I think it's my new favorite! The meat is decent, it's not a HUGE selection but it's all the main favorites! What really impressed me was the sides and extras! You're not just eating meat all night, they have every side you could ever want! Even noodles and broth to make soup! All types of veggies and pineapple to grill, dumplings calamari rice all kinds of appetizers.. multiple sauces. I was in awe and can't wait to go back! Plus so friendly!!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Hi,
We wanted to go dine there but when we got there we saw your notice in the door. I hope everything is well.
Because i was very desperate for Korean bbq we ended up going to another place on Central, am sure i dont need to give you their name.
Any how, it seem like a good chance to broaden my bbq experience but boy was i wrong.
For starters if i wanted to eat delicious short ribs (because really why else you want to eat anything else) we had to pay the so called king price of $30 per person.
I dont mind paying for food as long as its worth it.... so am not cheap, but as soon as saw the servings and the quality of the food i knew i was in for a rude awakening.
I ordered my usual sides, lettuce (none available) pickled cucumbers (none available) for the kimchee i was brought the serving of what seem to be a single bite, so i asked for more. I also asked for onions and jalapeño pepers to grill, just to be served aged items that were more likely from the day before.
I was trying to stay calm but when i saw the rice, it was literally the bottom of the pot, it even had that bottom film.
I noticed that my burner was not really doing the job, and the meat was not cooking fast enough ( after eating at your place and living in Korean town most of my childhood you could say i know how to cook the meats) it turned out the gas tank was empty so they had to change it.
The kid that brought the meats spilled raw meat juice all over my arm and hand, the kid that was fixing my grill flipped over my
Kimchee all over the menu, and another kid drop the meat so hard that almost spilled raw juice all over my food.
The meat, well, spicy chicken and beef, not really spicy, short ribs were not seasoned enough and out of two of the portion one was not eatable because it was mostly fat with no meat.
The so called cali meat was plain and so the spicy beef.
Over all, i had a mediocre experience that cost me a lot more than what i pay at your place.
The cherry on top was that there was no fruits or any desert as part of the buffet, and at the end, the tip was already charged.
Why am i telling you all this? Because it reminded me of why i am super loyal to you guys, even more than LAs.
I have been going to KG for the last ten years, my daughter has grown up in your tables, with James (i think) carrying her around the restaurant and making her special chopsticks when she was three yrs old.
So thank you, thank you for your quality of food, your quality of service, and your quality of everything.
Knowing the sad state of service at these commercial overpriced cold bbq places i want to ask you to keep providing us with such good food and culture.
I hope everything is ok and hope to see you guys very very soon.
Thanks a million,
Jonas Chavez
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
It is a very nice and hospitable space all the employees are kind and sweet to us as well. Definitely would rate higher.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
I loved dining here! I've come here quite a few times aside from today.
Yuming is a great server. She was attentive, helpful, and very friendly. She is the the type of person to jump in when you need assistance. I hope she gets the recognition she deserves.
I also like how you press a button now for a grill change. I was always used to the staff coming around and changing it periodically.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Plenty of excellent meat choices. Reasonable price. Good service.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
My first time here and first time trying K bbq.
The servers were nice and explained everything well.
Would like to see more seafood options as a pescatarian.
Would improve the appearance of the restaurant.
Would go back and already told a friend.
Atmosphere: 4
Food: 4
Service: 5
Koreana Grill has been a longtime staple in Riverside, and I’ve been coming here for years — even back when James used to run it! While the neighborhood around it has changed and you’ll notice some homeless activity nearby, don’t let that stop you. The Korean food here is still some of the best around.
The parking can get pretty rough, especially on busy weekends, but once you’re inside, it’s worth it. The interior got a bit of a modern refresh several years ago, and while some areas look a little cluttered, the overall vibe is still warm and welcoming. I wish they cleaned the clutter behind the payment counter a bit- as it would give it a more cleaner vibe. Also, they did block off a section behind one of the buffet counters where a staff member now preps and cuts meat, but the layout is mostly the same as it’s always been.
Customer service is solid — nothing overly fancy, but the staff is attentive and helpful. On busy days, you’ll need to sign in and wait to be called. The wait just depends on how packed it is, but once your table is ready, a server will take you to your seat and get your drink order. After that, you’re free to grab a plate and start picking your food.
The grill at your table is the real experience. As you cook the meat, the staff will replace the grill when it gets too burned, either when you ask or if they notice. It’s a nice touch that keeps the experience pleasant. The bulgogi is my go-to — it’s delicious every time. I also love their kimchi, which always hits the spot.
This place is a fantastic intro to Korean BBQ for first-timers. If you’re bringing family or friends who’ve never been, especially if they’re not familiar with this style of dining, just explain the process and the meat— you grill your food at the table and the bulgogi is kind of like carne asada in style but different flavor, and once people understand, they tend to love it. There are other meats like spicy chicken which is equally as delicious in flavor. There are many options to choose from at the buffet counters. They also have brown rice and white rice. And when you are finished, they have soft serve ice cream too.
Overall, I highly recommend Koreana Grill. It’s been here for years, and it’s still going strong. Definitely a Riverside classic.
Atmosphere: 4
Food: 5
Service: 5
First time going to a korean bbq buffet
They offer set pricing with top meats that you request from your server but your buffet bar carries more variety of meats for you to add to your grill and cook
All the side dishes you expect in a buffet were there
Price under $40 for dinner
Atmosphere: 3
Food: 5
Service: 3
Everything is good, but the options of the meat is not a lot
Atmosphere: 4
Food: 4
Service: 4
I love this place. I've been eating here for over 6 years now and is by far my go-to Korean BBQ spot.
It's easy to brush off saying that the food is good since it's food you cook yourself. But I've had bad and unsatisfying K-BBQ before. But ive never felt this way with Koreana Grill. I've always left quite satisfied.
Another thing i love that has absolutely spoiled me is the buffet style. I literally can't go to other places without being annoyed about the service times and portion sizes. So buffet style is a big thumbs up for me.
The only thing i have to worry about is the cut meat being replenished, drink refills and grill changes which the staff do a very good job at servicing.
Otherwise, staff is friendly.
Washrooms are generally clean. But i can't comment on the upkeep through the day since i only ever go at noon times when they open.
I don't really partake in the vegetable options so i can't really comment on the options. But i will say i enjoy the spicy tofu soup.
Anyway, I've been enjoying going to this place for the past 6 years and will continue to do so. Its easily my most frequent spot and i recommend it.
Atmosphere: 4
Food: 4
Service: 4
Restaurantji Recommends
First time at a Korean restaurant. The food was good.
Atmosphere: 4
Food: 4
Service: 4
😋 delicious first time here I had a great experience
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Great tasting food. One of my favorite KBBQ spots around.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
This place is perfect. They make tasty sidedishes and the meat is good, it's consistent and authentic. Well worth the price and the people who work there are warm and friendly.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
The food is great love the service
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
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