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KFire Korean BBQ
Master Critic Reviews (2 Lists)
KFire Korean BBQ
8.0
KFire Korean BBQ’s Old Town location brings build-your-own Korean BBQ plates, wings, and gluten-free options to a fast-casual strip along Clybourn. Locals use it for satisfying kalbi bowls, spicy chicken, and catered platters that travel well for office lunches and group dinners.
Must-Try Dishes:
KFIRE Spicy Chicken Plate, Kalbi Bowl with Kimchi, Bokki Fries
Scores:
Value: 8.2
Service: 8
Consistency: 8
Food Quality: 8.6
Atmosphere: 6.6
Cultural Relevance: 7.8
What makes it special: Fast-casual Korean BBQ plates, wings, and gluten-free options in a convenient Old Town location.
Who should go: Lunch crowds and groups craving customizable Korean BBQ plates.
When to visit: Weekday lunches or early dinners before peak takeout and delivery rush.
What to order: KFIRE Spicy Chicken, kalbi bowl with kimchi, Bokki Fries.
Insider tip: Order ahead online for faster pickup and to lock in popular wing flavors before they sell out.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking along Clybourn and nearby side streets; availability varies by time of day
Dress code: Casual — comfortable everyday wear is completely appropriate
Noise level: Moderate — conversation is generally easy, though peak hours can feel busier
Weekend wait: Usually minimal, though short waits can happen during peak hours
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: A few options depending on customization
Vegan options: Limited — best for flexible eaters who are okay with modification
Gluten-free options: Stronger support here, with clearly identified options
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Better for casual or low-pressure dates than formal ones. The fast-casual setup works well if you want something relaxed and budget-friendly.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes — the format is fast-casual and walk-in friendly, so reservations aren’t needed.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes — the menu is approachable, service is informal, and families are common. Great for school-age kids and up.
Best For
Better for: Quick, customizable Korean BBQ-style plates and wings without the sit-down grill commitment or higher price tag
Skip if: You want a full service Korean BBQ grill experience or a longer, special-occasion meal
KFire Korean BBQ
7.6
A fast-casual Korean BBQ counter in Old Town built for quick, grilled-to-order protein plates with punchy sauces and sides. It’s at its best as a streamlined lunch move—pick one signature protein, keep the add-ons tight, and get in and out.
Must-Try Dishes:
Spicy chicken BBQ plate, Kalbi, Bokki fries
Scores:
Value: 8.3
Service: 7.4
Consistency: 7.8
Food Quality: 8.1
Atmosphere: 6.1
Cultural Relevance: 7.5
What makes it special: Fast-casual Korean BBQ plates grilled to order with strong sauces.
Who should go: Lunch people who want protein-forward BBQ
When to visit: Weekday lunch for fastest flow
What to order: Spicy chicken, kalbi, bokki fries
Insider tip: Choose one protein and two sides—don’t over-order; portions add up.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Metered street parking in Old Town; availability varies and can be tight during peak hours. Garages are available a few blocks away if street spots are full.
Dress code: Casual — jeans, sneakers, and workday attire all fit right in.
Noise level: Moderate — counter-service buzz but easy to hold a conversation.
Weekend wait: 10–20 minutes during peak dinner hours, shorter off-peak
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait or just a few minutes in line
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Limited — rice bowls, sides, and sauces can be combined into a meat-free plate.
Vegan options: Very limited — possible with sides only; sauces may vary by day.
Gluten-free options: Some protein-and-rice combinations work, but sauces may contain gluten; ask staff to confirm.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Not ideal for a traditional sit-down date, but solid for a casual, daytime meetup where speed and simplicity matter more than atmosphere.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes — it’s counter service with open seating, so you order first and sit when ready.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes for older kids who like grilled meats and rice bowls; no special kids’ menu, but portions are approachable.
Best For
Better for: Fast, affordable Korean BBQ flavors when you want a quick, protein-forward meal without committing to a full tabletop BBQ experience.
Skip if: You’re looking for traditional Korean BBQ grills, long sit-down meals, or a social group dining atmosphere.