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Daebak Korean BBQ
Master Critic Reviews (2 Lists)
Daebak Korean BBQ
8.4
Vibes:
Group Dining Gatherings
Birthday & Celebration Central
Trendy Table Hotspots
Date Night Magic
Daebak Korean BBQ in Wicker Park is a full-service, grill-at-the-table spot where charcoal-fired bulgogi, pork belly, and marinated short ribs anchor long, shared meals. It draws both neighborhood regulars and destination diners who want a lively, smoke-scented Korean BBQ experience without leaving the city core.
Must-Try Dishes:
Wicker Park Combo BBQ platter, LA galbi marinated short ribs, Spicy short rib soup
Scores:
Value: 6.8
Service: 8.1
Consistency: 8.7
Food Quality: 8.8
Atmosphere: 8.5
Cultural Relevance: 8.2
What makes it special: Charcoal-fired Korean BBQ built for big tables and sizzling platters.
Who should go: Groups wanting interactive grill-at-table Korean BBQ.
When to visit: Prime weekend evenings or early weeknights to avoid waits.
What to order: Wicker Park Combo, LA galbi, spicy short rib soup.
Insider tip: Book a later reservation and plan for lingering over an extra round of grilled pork belly.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking in Wicker Park is limited — expect metered spots and residential side streets; allow extra time on weekends.
Dress code: Smart casual — jeans are fine, but many diners lean slightly dressy for night-out meals.
Noise level: Lively — conversation is possible, but expect background music and table chatter.
Weekend wait: 30–90 minutes without a reservation depending on peak hours.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait (though most traffic is concentrated at dinner).
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: A few options like vegetable sides and tofu dishes, but it is primarily meat-focused.
Vegan options: Very limited — sides may contain fish sauce or egg, so ask staff for guidance.
Gluten-free options: Some naturally gluten-free options exist, but marinades and sauces may contain soy sauce — ask for clarification before ordering.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes — it’s fun and interactive, especially if you both enjoy cooking at the table. Just know it’s lively and a bit smoky rather than quiet or intimate.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Often yes, but waits can be long during peak weekend dinner hours. Arriving early or later in the evening helps.
Is it kid-friendly? Older kids and teens usually do well thanks to the interactive grilling. Very young children may find the heat and smoke overwhelming.
Best For
Better for: Celebratory nights with friends, interactive dining, and charcoal-grilled Korean BBQ in a lively setting.
Skip if: You want a quiet meal, strictly vegetarian or vegan options, or don’t want to leave smelling like grilled meat.
Daebak Korean BBQ
8.2
Daebak brings all-you-can-eat Korean barbecue to Milwaukee Avenue with tabletop grills, marinated short rib, and thick-cut pork belly cooked over high heat. It’s a high-energy spot where Wicker Park groups linger over rounds of meat, banchan, and soju late into the night.
Must-Try Dishes:
Marinated short rib (galbi), Thick-cut pork belly, Seafood pancake and banchan spread
Scores:
Value: 8.9
Service: 6.5
Consistency: 8.2
Food Quality: 8.4
Atmosphere: 7
Cultural Relevance: 8.3
What makes it special: Lively, grill-at-the-table Korean BBQ with generous all-you-can-eat sets.
Who should go: Groups craving interactive, smoky Korean barbecue feasts.
When to visit: Prime weekend nights or late evenings for full buzz.
What to order: Galbi, pork belly rounds, seafood pancake and banchan spread.
Insider tip: Pace your orders and mix marinades to keep the grill from overcrowding.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking in Wicker Park can be limited, especially evenings; expect metered spots and allow extra time.
Dress code: Casual to smart-casual — most guests are dressed for a night out, but jeans and sneakers are common.
Noise level: Loud — lively music, sizzling grills, and big groups make conversation energetic rather than intimate.
Weekend wait: 60–90 minutes without a reservation during peak hours.
Weekday lunch: Typically little to no wait when open early.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Limited — there are sides and a few non-meat dishes, but the experience is centered on grilled meats.
Vegan options: Very limited — vegans may find options mainly in banchan and sides.
Gluten-free options: Some proteins and sides can be gluten-free, but marinades and sauces may contain soy/wheat — ask staff for guidance.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes if you like high-energy, interactive dining — grilling together can be fun. If you prefer quiet conversation, choose something calmer.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Usually, but waits can be long on weekends. Arrive early or late, or expect to queue with your group.
Is it kid-friendly? Older kids and teens will likely enjoy it, but the hot grills and late-night crowd make it less ideal for very young children.
Best For
Better for: Lively, social, all-you-can-eat Korean BBQ with late-night energy and big-group vibes.
Skip if: You want a quiet dinner, lighter portions, or a menu built around vegetarian or vegan options.