Where to Find Tennessee’s Best Korean BBQ, According to Locals

You asked locals where the sizzle is strongest, and they did not hold back. From polished steakhouses to cozy mom and pop legends, Tennessee’s Korean BBQ scene blends authenticity with modern flair. Whether you crave marinated galbi that melts or a lively grill-your-own feast with friends, these spots deliver flavor, value, and serious vibes. Keep scrolling to find your next table, plus insider details that make each place worth a special trip.

1. Koré (Nashville)

Locals praise Koré for stylish plates that balance tradition with bold, modern twists. Expect char-kissed cuts, seasonal banchan, and sauces that pop with heat and umami. You get polished service and a playlist that sets an upscale but not stuffy vibe.

Share small plates like crispy mandu and kimchi pancakes, then move to marinated short ribs or wagyu cooked perfectly. Cocktails lean clean and bright, pairing citrus and sesame notes. Ask about chef specials for limited meats and off-menu bites.

Reservations help on weekends, and parking is straightforward in nearby garages. Prices reflect quality, yet portions satisfy. Go hungry, split a few sides, and finish with soft serve or a sesame dessert to seal the night.

2. Mi Kitchen (Franklin)

Mi Kitchen is where Franklin locals take date night when they want refined Korean flavors without pretense. Think pristine banchan, delicate japchae, and bulgogi seared to a gentle char. The room is calm, the lighting soft, and the pacing thoughtfully relaxed.

Start with scallion pancake or crisp mandu, then move to galbi or a chef seasonal entree. Sauces are balanced, never overpowering, highlighting the meat and vegetables. Wine and soju selections are curated to complement clean, layered flavors.

Service is warm and knowledgeable, happy to guide newcomers. Portions are satisfying, presentation meticulous, and prices fair for the polish. If you love subtlety over smoke, this is your spot for a polished Korean dining experience.

3. Zaya 1943 Korean Steakhouse (Chattanooga)

Zaya 1943 is a Chattanooga showstopper, blending high quality meats with tableside theater. The marbling on ribeye and galbi is gorgeous, and the staff grills to your preferred doneness. You feel taken care of from the first banchan to the last lettuce wrap.

Expect premium cuts, sizzling aromas, and sauces that let the beef sing. The room feels luxe yet welcoming, ideal for celebrations or business dinners. Pair with a crisp beer or soju flight to cut through richness.

Reservations are smart on weekends. Prices reflect the steakhouse pedigree, but portions and quality justify the splurge. Come hungry, pace the courses, and save room for a sweet finish to cool the grill-side heat.

4. KPOT Korean BBQ & Hot Pot (Knoxville)

KPOT in Knoxville delivers a choose your adventure feast with both Korean BBQ and hot pot. You can sear marinated pork belly while simmering mushrooms, noodles, and beef in spicy broth. It is interactive, messy in a good way, and perfect for groups.

All you can enjoy means pace yourself and rotate proteins. Grab seafood, thin sliced beef, and tofu to keep the table buzzing. Switch broths mid meal for variety, from silky bone broth to tongue tingling spice.

Service is efficient, and the vibe stays upbeat. Come with friends, divide tasks, and keep tongs moving. It is value packed, especially weekdays, and a great intro to Korean BBQ for first timers.

5. Arisu Korean BBQ & Tofu (Murfreesboro)

Arisu is a Murfreesboro favorite for comforting, authentic flavors and generous plates. Think sizzling pork belly, hearty tofu stews, and classic banchan that tastes homemade. The room hums with families, students, and regulars who know the staff by name.

Start with kimchi jjigae or sundubu for that deep, peppery warmth. Then grill marinated beef short ribs or spicy pork and wrap with rice and lettuce. Portions are generous, so sharing is easy and budget friendly.

Service is quick, refills arrive fast, and the grill stays hot. Expect reliable flavors, fair prices, and a cozy vibe. When you want classic Korean comfort with no fuss, Arisu delivers every single time.

6. Korea House Restaurant (Nashville)

Korea House is a Nashville staple for traditional recipes at wallet friendly prices. Expect familiar hits like bulgogi, bibimbap, kimchi pancakes, and soothing soups that taste like home. The dining room is simple, the food consistent, and the portions generous.

Regulars recommend dolsot bibimbap for that satisfying sizzle and crispy rice crust. Mandu arrives crisp, with a juicy interior that pairs well with vinegar soy. Spice levels are manageable, and staff will guide you to your comfort zone.

It is a go to for lunch, takeout, and weeknight dinners. You get dependable quality without the scene. For newcomers to Korean food, this is an easy, affordable place to start and return.

7. Mad for Galbi (Nolensville)

Mad for Galbi is true to its name, specializing in marinated short ribs that win loyal fans. The galbi arrives lacquered, tender, and deeply savory. You can taste the careful marinade and patient grilling in every bite.

Alongside, expect homestyle sides, steaming rice, and a few rotating specials. If you love that sweet savory char on beef, this place hits the craving. Portions are hearty, so bring a friend or plan leftovers.

The vibe is relaxed, family friendly, and welcoming to first timers. Ask for recommendations on sauces and banchan pairings. Prices are fair, quality is steady, and the short ribs alone justify the drive to Nolensville.

8. GALBIYA Korean Cuisine (Springfield)

GALBIYA in Springfield is a hidden gem locals rave about for value and authenticity. Dishes arrive fast, fresh, and packed with flavor, from sizzling bulgogi to crisp kimchi pancakes. You get plentiful banchan and portions that stretch into tomorrow.

The menu is approachable, with clear descriptions for newcomers. Bibimbap pops with color, and stews provide cozy comfort on chilly nights. It is the kind of place where regulars wave to each other.

Prices are excellent considering the quality and quantity. Service is kind and efficient, making dine in or takeout easy. If you are chasing that neighborhood Korean spot with real heart, GALBIYA fits the bill beautifully.

9. 901 Hotpot & Korean BBQ (Memphis)

901 Hotpot & Korean BBQ brings a lively social energy to Memphis dining. Grab a crew, pick broths, then hit the ingredient bar for seafood, thin sliced beef, and greens. Meanwhile, the grill keeps sizzling with marinated favorites.

The fun is in the flow, alternating bites from bubbling pot to smoky grill. Sauces range from garlicky to fiery, letting you build your own flavor path. Staff resets plates quickly and keeps the pace smooth.

Weekends get busy, so arrive early or book ahead. Value is strong, especially for groups. If you want dinner to double as an activity, this spot delivers fresh ingredients and big energy.

10. Hai Woon Dai (Nashville)

Hai Woon Dai is Nashville icon status, beloved for deep tradition and consistent flavor. Expect generous banchan, sizzling beef platters, and comforting soups that satisfy year round. The room feels timeless in the best way, welcoming families and long time regulars.

Favorites include galbi, seafood pancakes, and dolsot bibimbap with crackling rice. Spice levels can climb, but staff helps you tailor heat. Portions are big, making it easy to share a spread across the table.

Prices are reasonable and service is brisk. You come for reliability and leave with leftovers. For a classic Korean meal that feels like a warm hug, this Nashville institution never disappoints.