New Seoul Korean charcoal bbq

Name: New Seoul Korean charcoal bbq
Address: 638 W Algonquin Rd, Des Plaines, IL 60016, Des Plaines, IL, 60016.0, US
Telephone: +1 847-439-3720
Price range: $$
Rating: 4.5

Essential

Korean·American

Is this your business?

Claim this profile to update your info and track analytics.

Claim Profile

About

New Seoul Korean charcoal bbq — trusted korean in Des Plaines. Order the Galbi. The kind of place your parents probably knew about too, and family-run. "Every bite was tender, juicy, and perfectly caramelized" — Todor Krecu

Experience Breakdown

🍴Food

5.0

👥Service

5.0

✨Ambiance

4.9

💬Sentiment

4.8

Marina B.

249 reviews

Highlights

CozyOld SchoolFamily FriendlyQuick BiteNeighborhood InstitutionFamily Run

Must Try

Galbi

What Diners Are Saying

Diners loved

Authentic flavorsOwner on siteCozy, intimate spaceWarm, welcoming staff

Some noted

Very dissatisfied and disappointed on their food. Ordered a bunch of soups and 2 order of BBQ.
— PJ BJV

Read all 635+ reviews on Google

Specialties

Galbi

Location

638 W Algonquin Rd, Des Plaines, IL 60016

What 635+ diners say about New Seoul Korean charcoal bbq

New Seoul Korean Charcoal BBQ is hands down one of the BEST dining experiences in the Chicago suburbs. The oak wood charcoal makes a huge difference — you can actually taste the authentic smoky flavor that you just can’t get from gas grills. The meats are incredibly fresh and high quality. Every bite was tender, juicy, and perfectly caramelized. If you want real Korean BBQ done right, this is the place!

“It’s like you’re being served by your relatives—they were so kind and accommodating, checking on us constantly.”

It’s like you’re being served by your relatives—they were so kind and accommodating, checking on us constantly. We had Galbi and the beef tongue. The banchans, especially the fish cake, were amazing. The portions were perfect as I didn’t feel overly full/overwhelmed compared to other places. We hope to come back to try their lunch entrees :)

Ren B.

Oct 2025

“Me and my friend ordered the japchae as an appetizer, and for kbbq we ordered the marinated galbi.”

Me and my friend ordered the japchae as an appetizer, and for kbbq we ordered the marinated galbi. For the amount of food we received including side dishes, we got a good amount for the price we paid. (Bill total was $77 without tip) the galbi was really good not too rich, and the japchae was perfect. The service was really good and they explained the dishes, and constantly checked on us during kbbq to see if we were cooking the meat right. They also gave us free yakult. Would definitely recommend

Nina Unabia

Aug 2025

“Our first time here was amazing.”

Our first time here was amazing! Not many restaurants have charcoal bbq. The bulgogi was seasoned perfectly. The seafood pancake was one of best dishes. Generous portions and the meats were very tender and flavorful. Truly a great experience!

Celia Ho

Jun 2025

“Great little place.”

Great little place. It's not fancy, but the food and service were excellent.

Scott Fogel

Apr 2025

“Best Korean charcoal BBQ in Chicagoland.”

Best Korean charcoal BBQ in Chicagoland. It’s been in the business for 24 years, and unfortunately it’s our first visit. As a start, Side dishes are delicious, especially the salad is so good. Beef and eels are tender and tasty. Rich, aromatic wood smoke. Very friendly service. Memorable dining, and we will return.

Culturetravel

Mar 2025

“I have never had kbbq brisket that was this tender and flavourful.”

I have never had kbbq brisket that was this tender and flavourful! The flavour from the charcoal infused in the meats just made it even better. Galbi was well seasoned. We also had the seafood pancake, generous portion of seafood and so delicious. Friendly service although they can get a little busy. Will make your clothes smell a little smokey so make sure you're not going anywhere important after :)

Adibah S

Dec 2024

“I've been to New Seoul a few times over the years and always had a great time but we moved out of...”

I've been to New Seoul a few times over the years and always had a great time but we moved out of the area so haven't been back since the pandemic started. I recently went back with a large group of friends and I'm happy to report it was exactly how I remembered it. The food is incredible and plentiful and they truly have the best service around. People never believe me when I say the best Korean BBQ place in the Chicagoland area is in an unassuming strip mall in Des Plaines but it's absolutely true. Don't sleep on this gem, you won't regret it!

Jeff Widlacki

Dec 2024

“I had the pleasure of dining at NEW SEOUL Korean Charcoal B.B.Q., and I must say, it was an...”

I had the pleasure of dining at NEW SEOUL Korean Charcoal B.B.Q., and I must say, it was an exceptional experience from start to finish. The ambiance of the restaurant is warm and inviting, creating a perfect setting for both casual dining and special occasions. The decor beautifully reflects Korean culture, adding to the overall dining experience. The menu offers a wide variety of authentic Korean dishes, with an impressive selection of meats for the BBQ. Each option is fresh and of high quality, and the marinated choices are particularly delicious. The attentive staff provided excellent recommendations, ensuring that we got the most out of our meal. One of the highlights was the charcoal grilling, which enhanced the flavor of the meats, creating a delightful smoky aroma that filled the air. The banchan (side dishes) were equally impressive, offering a delightful array of flavors that complemented our main dishes perfectly. Service was prompt and friendly, with our server checking in regularly to ensure we had everything we needed. Their knowledge of the menu and willingness to answer questions added to the overall positive experience. Overall, NEW SEOUL Korean Charcoal B.B.Q. is a fantastic spot for anyone looking to enjoy authentic Korean cuisine in a comfortable setting. I highly recommend it to both newcomers and seasoned fans of Korean BBQ alike. I look forward to my next visit!

Lei Lenny

Oct 2024

“One of the few Korean charcoal barbecue restaurants serving it up like in Seoul.”

One of the few Korean charcoal barbecue restaurants serving it up like in Seoul! They had delicious side dishes and ssamjang sauce. I really liked their potato and seaweed side dishes. Their galbi were well-marinated. We also really enjoyed the pork belly. The charcoal brought out the savoriness of the meat. The staff were very friendly, and we enjoyed washing the meat down with makgeolli. Their prices were also very reasonable for Chicago.

Dragana Spasevska

Sep 2024

“Their Yook Gae Jang (spicy beef soup - 1st item on the menu) is arguably the best in America.”

Their Yook Gae Jang (spicy beef soup - 1st item on the menu) is arguably the best in America. I’ve had it everywhere, and I’ve not had it any better anywhere else. That’s why my bowl is empty.