photos by Joey Stewart
JOA Korean BBQ offers an immersive dining experience that marries traditional Korean cuisine with modern flair. Upon entering, diners are immediately struck by the restaurant’s sleek, contemporary design. The interior features a harmonious blend of minimalist aesthetics and warm, inviting elements. Polished wooden tables and chairs are complemented by ambient lighting, creating an intimate atmosphere perfect for both casual gatherings and special occasions.
Accents of Korean culture, such as traditional hanbok fabric patterns and subtle calligraphy art, adorn the walls, giving patrons a glimpse into the rich heritage behind the dishes they are about to enjoy. But the atmosphere, as beautiful as it is, offers comfort to those seeking a bit of relaxation and a more casual evening.
Female Chef Minji Kim owned a renowned restaurant in Seoul, Korea that was a prominent force within the dining landscape in the area from its inception in 2007 to when it was closed in 2020 due to Kim and husband/Executive Chef Ben Lee moving to Dallas to work on Nuri Grill. Lee was Kim’s Executive Chef at her restaurant, aptly named Min’s Kitchen, where he oversaw and developed the Korean cuisine. He is most well-known for the creation of the menus and recipes that are famous in Modern Korean Fusion. Min’s Kitchen was listed in the Michelin guide for many years and was also recognized as the Michelin Plate in 2017, 2018 and 2019.
Since the opening of the first location, Kim and Lee have opened four more locations which are now run by Kim’s sister. Both Lee and Kim moved to the United States in February 2020 to work for their mentor and friend (as well as past dining guest) Wan Kim, Creator of Nuri Grill and bring their 30+ years of experience to Dallas’ culinary scene.
At the heart of JOA’s Korean BBQ menu are the prime cuts of meat, each prepared with care and precision. The Galbi (marinated short ribs) is a standout offering, featuring beef short ribs marinated in a harmonious blend of soy sauce, garlic, sesame oil, and sugar. The marinade infuses the meat with a deep, sweet-savory flavor, which caramelizes beautifully on the grill, resulting in tender, juicy ribs that are full of flavor.
Another must-try is the Samgyeopsal (pork belly). Thick slices of pork belly are served unmarinated, allowing the natural flavors of the meat to shine through when grilled. The crispy, golden exterior and the succulent, juicy interior create a perfect contrast in textures. Samgyeopsal is traditionally enjoyed with a variety of dipping sauces and condiments, such as sesame oil with salt, ssamjang (a thick, spicy paste), and fresh garlic, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
For those who prefer beef, the Chadolbaegi (thinly sliced brisket) offers a delicate, melt-in-your-mouth experience. The brisket is sliced paper-thin and cooks quickly on the grill, making it an ideal choice for those who appreciate the pure taste of high-quality beef. It pairs wonderfully with fresh vegetables and a dash of sesame oil, creating a balanced and satisfying bite.
JOA Korean also offers a selection of marinated options, including the Bulgogi (marinated beef) and Dak Galbi (spicy marinated chicken). The Bulgogi is prepared with thin slices of beef marinated in a savory-sweet mixture of soy sauce, sugar, sesame oil, garlic, and scallions. When grilled, the beef becomes incredibly tender and flavorful, with a slightly caramelized exterior. The Dak Galbi, on the other hand, features chicken marinated in a spicy gochujang-based sauce, delivering a bold and fiery kick that is sure to please spice enthusiasts.
A quintessential part of the Korean BBQ experience at JOA Korean is the array of banchan (side dishes) that accompany the meal. These small plates offer a variety of flavors and textures, from the refreshing crunch of kimchi to the savory richness of japchae (stir-fried glass noodles). The banchan not only complement the grilled meats but also provide a delightful exploration of Korean culinary traditions.
The BBQ experience is further enhanced by the interactive nature of the meal, with diners grilling their selections at the table. This communal aspect of Korean BBQ fosters a lively and engaging atmosphere, making it an ideal choice for gatherings with friends and family.
JOA Korean’s BBQ menu is a testament to the rich culinary heritage of Korea, offering a variety of premium meats, expertly marinated and grilled to perfection. The combination of high-quality ingredients, meticulous preparation, and interactive dining creates a memorable and satisfying experience that celebrates the essence of Korean BBQ. Whether you are a seasoned enthusiast or a newcomer to Korean cuisine, JOA Korean promises a delectable journey through the flavors and traditions of Korea.
JOA Grill, is located at 2254 Royal Lane, Suite 100, Dallas, Texas 75229 in Koreatown. The menu focuses around PRIME CUTS OF meats and the highest quality ingredients including chef-inspired seasonal and staple cocktails. The 4,000 square foot space seats 110 people and is designed to bring its guests together as they enjoy Korean BBQ. In Korean, “JOA” means “I like it”, so the restaurant has an inviting, playful and casual atmosphere providing guests a full-service dining experience with exceptional food from two Michelin chefs at a fair price.
JOA is open for dinner only 7 days/week.
