K-Team BBQ (Los Angeles)

Overview

K-Team BBQ in Los Angeles offers a fresh take on Korean BBQ, with a focus on pork and an energetic atmosphere. This pork-centric spot is the casual sibling to Park’s BBQ, offering high-quality meats, unique dishes, and a fun vibe - all at a more affordable price.

• Address: 936 S Vermont Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90006

• Website: https://kteambbq.com

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kteambbq

• Hours:

  • Mon–Thu: 5:00 PM – 11:00 PM

  • Fri: 3:00 PM – 11:00 PM

  • Sat–Sun: 1:00 PM – 11:00 PM
    

• Average Cost per Person: Approximately $60–$75, depending on meat selections and sides.

• Parking: Valet parking is available for $3.

• Reservations: May accept reservations over phone; expect wait times during peak hours.

• Atmosphere: Lively, retro-inspired interior with checkered-tile tables and upbeat K-pop music.

• Perfect For: Casual dinners, group gatherings, and KBBQ enthusiasts.

Menu Highlights

The menu at K-Team is straightforward, with just a few meat options: thin-cut frozen pork belly (Naengsam), marbled pork jowl (Hangjungsal), and classic thick-cut pork belly and collar (samgyeopsal and moksal), plus a few prime beef cuts like ribeye and brisket.

• Thin Frozen Pork Belly (Naengsam) – A standout. These paper-thin slices cook quickly on the grill, releasing flavorful fat that crisps up the kimchi and veggies. It’s a fun, interactive meal, and the melt-in-your-mouth pork belly keeps you coming back for more.

• Pork Jowl (Hangjungsal) – Rich, fatty, and tender, this cut is perfect for ssam (wraps). Grill attendants often recommend pairing it with perilla leaves and ssamjang (spicy bean paste).

• Thick-Cut Pork Belly & Collar – For a heartier, chewy option, these cuts deliver a satisfying bite and are perfect for building classic ssam with rice, chili, and garlic.

• Prime Beef (Ribeye, Brisket, Tongue) – While pork is the star, the beef is top-notch. The thin-sliced ribeye grills quickly, and the beef tongue offers a tender bite, adding variety to your meal.

Banchan (side dishes) are served in generous portions and include crispy lettuce, kimchi, perilla leaves, and pickled daikon, enhancing the BBQ experience. Special sauces - like fermented shrimp dip and a unique pollack roe ssamjang - add flavor to every bite.

K-Team also serves included sides with every order of meat: a hearty steamed egg casserole, a rich bean paste stew, and spicy rice cakes (tteokbokki). These sides balance out the richness of the grilled meats and keep your taste buds engaged throughout the meal.

Pricing and Value

K-Team BBQ is a la carte (not AYCE) and offers great value for the quality of meat. Meats range from $30 to $39 per order. For example, the thin frozen pork belly costs about $30, and prime ribeye is around $36. While this may seem pricier than AYCE spots, it's a great deal compared to high-end places like Park’s BBQ, where similar cuts can cost double.

You get your money’s worth with generous portions, banchan, and free side dishes. A typical meal for two (with 3 orders of meat, a drink, and a side) totals $120–$140, or about $60–$75 per person, which is a fair price for the quality and variety. The high-end meat and interactive dining make K-Team a great choice for a fun group dinner without breaking the bank.

Service

The service at K-Team BBQ is a big highlight. Staff actively assist with grilling your meats, making sure everything is cooked perfectly. They’re friendly and knowledgeable, often offering recommendations for sauces or grilling techniques. Visitors praise the attentiveness and warm hospitality, with many noting that the staff enhances the dining experience. However, as with any popular spot, service can be hit-or-miss on busy nights, but this is a rare complaint.

The atmosphere is lively, and you’ll hear K-pop tunes playing as your food sizzles on the grill. It’s a fun, upbeat place that’s perfect for a casual hangout or group celebration. The vibe is energetic but not overwhelming, making it great for both a night out with friends or a family meal.

Atmosphere

K-Team BBQ’s interior is retro-cool, with orange-and-white checkered tile tables, vintage Korean signage, and a bright, open layout. The space feels modern yet nostalgic, evoking the look of classic Korean BBQ restaurants from the 70s and 80s.

The crowd tends to be young and energetic, but you’ll also see families and locals enjoying a laid-back meal. It’s a place where everyone can feel comfortable and have a good time. The restaurant also uses modern ventilation, keeping the dining room free of smoke so you won’t leave smelling like BBQ.

Wait Times and Reservations

K-Team BBQ is a popular spot, so expect a wait, especially on weekends. They don’t take reservations online, but you can call ahead for larger parties. For walk-ins, plan to arrive early to avoid a long wait (peak times are Friday and Saturday evenings). The restaurant is open until midnight, so it’s a great late-night option.

For larger groups, call ahead to secure a table. K-Team also offers valet parking for a small fee, which is a lifesaver in Koreatown, where street parking can be limited. Public transit options, like the Wilshire/Vermont Metro station, are nearby if you prefer not to drive.

Comparison to Other KBBQ Spots in LA

K-Team BBQ stands out among Koreatown’s KBBQ scene by focusing on pork rather than beef. While other spots like Park’s BBQ and Baekjeong excel at beef, K-Team’s thin frozen pork belly and pork jowl steal the show. The value is unmatched, offering premium cuts at a fraction of the price compared to high-end places.

In comparison to AYCE spots, like Hae Jang Chon or Road To Seoul, K-Team provides a better quality experience. Instead of endless refills of basic cuts, you get expertly grilled meats with more attention to detail and a broader range of banchan and sides.

Conclusion

K-Team BBQ is worth the hype. Whether you’re a KBBQ enthusiast or a newcomer, the pork-forward menu, lively atmosphere, and exceptional value make it a must-try in Koreatown. It’s a great spot for a fun night out with friends or a casual celebration, offering top-tier meat and a truly interactive dining experience.