Top Korean Barbecue Dishes to Try in Abu Dhabi
Food cravings can be frustrating. You know the feeling — standing in front of a menu, unsure what to order, worried you’ll miss out on the dish everyone raves about. For many in Abu Dhabi, the challenge becomes even greater when exploring a cuisine as rich and diverse as Korean barbecue. With its smoky grills, sizzling cuts of meat, and endless side dishes, Korean BBQ can seem overwhelming to first-timers. But the truth is, once you know which dishes to try, it becomes an experience worth repeating. If you’re looking for the right place to start, Madang, one of the popular Korean BBQ restaurants in Abu Dhabi, stands out for bringing authentic flavours straight from Korea to the UAE.
The Magic of Korean BBQ at Madang
Madang isn’t just a restaurant; it’s an experience. Known for creating a homely setting with traditional flavours, it has become a favourite among food lovers in Abu Dhabi. The moment you step inside, you’re welcomed by the aroma of marinated meats and freshly grilled dishes. Tables are equipped with built-in grills, letting you cook your meat to perfection while sharing the moment with friends or family.
The beauty of Korean barbecue lies in its variety. Every dish offers a unique texture, flavour, and way of eating. Some are marinated with rich sauces, while others are served fresh to let the natural taste of the meat shine. To help you enjoy the most out of your visit, here’s a guide to the top Korean BBQ dishes in Abu Dhabi you should not miss at Madang.
LA Galbi – The Star of Korean BBQ
If there’s one dish that captures the essence of Korean barbecue, it’s LA Galbi. These are beef short ribs cut across the bone, marinated in a sweet and savoury sauce made from soy, garlic, and a hint of fruit. At Madang, the ribs are grilled to perfection, locking in the smoky flavour while keeping the meat tender and juicy.
What makes LA Galbi special is its balance. The sweetness from the marinade pairs beautifully with the charred edges from the grill, creating a flavour that lingers with every bite. It’s a dish that’s both hearty and satisfying, making it a must-try for anyone new to Korean cuisine.
Sam-Kyup-Sal – Simple Yet Irresistible
Another favourite on the list is Sam-Kyup-Sal, also known as pork belly. This dish is loved for its simplicity. Unlike LA Galbi, it’s usually served without marinade, letting the natural taste of the meat shine. The slices of pork belly are grilled until golden and crispy on the outside but remain tender inside.
What makes Sam-Kyup-Sal exciting is the way you eat it. After grilling, you wrap the meat in fresh lettuce with garlic, chilli paste, and a slice of onion. Each bite is refreshing yet full of flavour. It’s interactive, fun, and one of the reasons why Korean BBQ is best enjoyed with friends.
Saeng Galbi – Fresh Short Ribs
If you prefer something less marinated and more focused on the pure flavour of beef, Saeng Galbi is for you. These are fresh beef short ribs that are seasoned lightly, often just with salt and pepper, before hitting the grill.
At Madang, the ribs are cut to highlight the quality of the meat itself. As they sizzle on the grill, you can appreciate the natural juiciness and tenderness. This dish is perfect for those who enjoy beef in its most authentic form.
Dae Pae Sam-Kyup-Sal – Thinly Sliced Perfection
For a lighter but equally delicious option, Dae Pae Sam-Kyup-Sal is an excellent choice. This dish features thin slices of pork belly, which cook quickly on the grill. The thin cuts make it easier to enjoy more without feeling overly full, making it ideal for those who love variety.
The crisp edges and soft centre of each slice create a texture that’s hard to beat. Pair it with dipping sauces or wrap it in fresh greens, and you have a dish that’s as fun to eat as it is flavourful.
Mok-Sal – Pork Neck with Character
Last but not least is Mok-Sal, a dish made from pork neck. This cut is slightly thicker than pork belly, offering a chewier bite but also richer flavour. Grilled carefully, it brings out a balance of tenderness and smokiness.
At Madang, Mok-Sal is often a hidden gem on the menu. While not as widely known as Sam-Kyup-Sal, it’s equally rewarding, especially for those who like bold flavours. Pairing it with the side dishes served at your table elevates the experience, making every bite more enjoyable.
Why These Dishes Matter
Each of these dishes represents a different side of Korean barbecue. From the sweet and savoury LA Galbi to the light and crispy Dae Pae Sam-Kyup-Sal, they highlight the variety and richness of this cuisine.
Madang ensures every cut of meat is served fresh, grilled right at your table, and paired with classic Korean side dishes like kimchi, pickled radish, and seasoned greens.
For anyone exploring the top Korean BBQ dishes in Abu Dhabi, these five choices are a perfect starting point. They give you a taste of both the traditional and modern sides of Korean cuisine, all in one sitting.
Final Bite
Exploring Korean barbecue doesn’t have to be intimidating. At Madang, it becomes an experience filled with flavour, fun, and authenticity. From the famous LA Galbi to the underrated Mok-Sal, these dishes are more than just meals; they’re a window into Korean food culture.
So the next time you’re looking to try something new in Abu Dhabi, remember these top picks. With the right dishes on your table, your Korean BBQ experience will be one you’ll want to revisit again and again.
Madang Korean Restaurant is one of the top-rated Korean restaurants in Abu Dhabi. Boasting of its traditional Korean interior design and style seating giving customers unique and realistic experience of Korea and its vast number of authentic Korean Cuisine.
Quick links
Find Us
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Main Branch (Now Open)
Ground Floor, Holiday Inn, 31st Dhafeer Street, Al Sa`Adah, Zone 1, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates - +971 2 585 5441, +971 56 327 5999
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Al Ghazal Branch:
Al Ghazal Golf Club, Near Old Abu Dhabi International Airport, Al Matar, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates - +971 50 137 5888
