Presentation on Map Reviews Nearby

Steves Korean Bar-B-Que in Berkeley

4.1 (91) 2521 Durant Ave g, Berkeley, CA 94704, United States

Categories

Korean restaurant
Barbecue restaurant
Korean barbecue restaurant

Location on the map

Berkeley, Alameda County, California, US

Phone: +1 510-848-6166

Opening hours

Monday:11 AM–11 PM
Tuesday:11 AM–11 PM
Wednesday:11 AM–11 PM
Thursday:11 AM–11 PM
Friday:11 AM–11 PM
Saturday:11 AM–11 PM
Sunday:9 AM–11 PM

Edit info

Total reviews rating 4.1

91 Reviews for Steves Korean Bar-B-Que 2024:

Review №1

2023-11-06 19:19:08

It is my go-to spot for quick and tasty KBBQ. I love their Barbecue Short Rib, and heres why its great – its seasoned just right and super tender. The sides, like kimchi and bean sprout salad, add extra zing and freshness to the meal. These sides not only complement the short rib beautifully but also refresh your palate. Plus, you get a generous portion of rice to enjoy with everything.

Review №2

2023-04-25 04:11:22

This place has been around for a long time. Used to come here for a treat back in the late 80’s. Came back a few days ago and it looks the same. Tastes the same too I guess, but not as flavorful as I remember.The reason for the low rating is that my wife and I both got an upset stomach and didn’t feel better until we got it out of our system if you know what I mean. Normally that kind of reaction would merit a zero star, but probably just a bad batch. But I won’t be coming back.

Review №3

2023-08-04 10:40:42

Its 3am and Steve dont play. I had to wreck the vibe by being over 25. No one in here even knows theyre abcs. The best you can do is stare at the floor until they call your number. Hyper salivating. I prefer to have meals while sitting as opposed to standing though I am thankful to be still standing after all these years of painful review descriptions. Namaste.

Review №4

2019-11-19 15:42:58

This place is practically a Berkeley staple.This restaurant has been here longer than Ive been alive. Eating here, youll understand why theyve survived all the turnover, while many places havent.The staff is friendly.The food (proteins) is made to order and always fresh. The Kim chi obviously has to be made beforehand.Theres great flavor and the spice for the spicy chicken is enough for you to be satisfied, but not enough for you to breath fire.Ive never been unsatisfied coming here over 20 years.

Review №5

2017-05-27 02:01:36

Consistently good and reasonably priced, as most Asian Ghetto places go. The spicy pork keeps calling me back, because its spicy, fatty, and comforting. Not the best Korean food Ive had, but its pretty tasty. Each dish comes with a side of rice, pickled bean sprouts, and kimchi.You can get tea for free, and theyre very quick about getting your food orders out. The staff is friendly, and they look like theyre always having a good time working together and cooking. Definitely a great place to grab a quick bite!

Review №6

2023-11-06 23:24:41

This place gave me food poisoning not once, but TWICE. Their meat is old and bad, they dont care and still serve it. STAY AWAY

Review №7

2018-09-12 21:48:41

Always good spot but no gluten free options unless you ask for seafood over rice with no soy sauce, Then your safe.

Review №8

2021-08-08 06:11:28

This place never fails to fulfill a student’s (or alumni’s) hunger. This place has been here for so long, but it shouldn’t be a surprise. The barbecue plates are yummy and the portions are great especially for the reasonable price. There are a variety of barbecue and other food plates to choose from.

Review №9

2023-06-17 22:02:26

The price went up again! I was here about 6 months ago, and it was $5 less. The quality and quantity, however, is still the same.

Review №10

2022-10-10 06:56:41

They give you a lot of food for 15 dollars, but the flavor isn’t good.

Review №11

2022-10-30 02:06:12

I am the old customer for more than 4 y. I ordered a BBQ Short rib dine in, after I finished half of the dish, I picked up my friends meal and left for 2-3min. They throw away my dish, even there were not so many customers at that time. In this situation a simple apology can make thing better, but they didnt. They blamed me for leaving. Although I had many meals for this place in the past 4y, I will NEVER come again for the bad service they provide

Review №12

2022-11-26 04:10:35

Victor is the best. We’ve come here for decades and it’s always consistent. Glass noodle spicy beef plate with short ribs on top is simply a culinary masterpiece.

Review №13

2021-06-14 20:43:09

Very good college student meal. The plates are super affordable and they give a pretty healthy serving. However, if youre looking for taste, the first few bites are pretty good but after a bit, the food starts tasting bland and boring. If you need a quick cheap meal, this is a pretty good choice. But on a college budget, it was mega worth

Review №14

2022-04-19 01:45:18

The food is alright! However, they always seem to forget very simple side requests. I’ve gone around 7-8 times now, and only twice did they remember to not put kimchi even though I explicitly asked for none. It’s a very easy thing to do.

Review №15

2021-08-15 20:11:37

This place is great. VERY positive experience, DELICIOUS food. I even called to ask for a veggie side to my short rib and bbq beef plates. He was super polite, patiently let me explain what I wanted, and in 5 minutes added a huge perfectly cooked mixed veggie plate to my order. Honestly, everything was cooked and seasoned to perfection. This is now MY GUY for Korean bbq in the East Bay. Have to add that this all took place on a very busy a Saturday night. 🤙👊💪🙏

Review №16

2021-11-12 07:15:16

Im generally forgiving with my reviews, but my God that beef bibimbap was not seasoned at all. The food was just so bland, I had to force myself to finish it because I was hungry. Sure there was a decent amount of food, which is good if all you want to do is fill your stomach, but you can already do that at the multitude of other restaurants in Berkeley for the same, or cheaper price.

Review №17

2020-11-08 20:05:32

Was my favorite during undergrad, 20 years ago, and theyre still going strong. Their $12 plate is enough for two large meals of chicken, rice, and veggies, and the most excellent sauce. Love yall 💖

Review №18

2021-04-11 02:46:31

This place will be here as long as it wants. I ate here frequently when I lived in Berkeley. Great no-frills Korean BBQ at student prices. The kimchi is always really crunchy and not too fishy. The other places in this food court are quite good too, so theres probably something for everyone. Alas, they dont serve alcohol, but Im strangely ok with it.

Review №19

2022-12-04 02:24:23

Solid fast korean restaurant. Hearty and tasty meat/rice dishes for hungry college students. Next to multiple smiliar restaurants. 2 blocks from campus. Recommend.

Review №20

2021-01-19 05:59:42

My son is absolutely in love with the Teriyaki chicken which is the reason for the 5 stars. We moved here from Washington stater and the Teriyaki everything there was just so good.He found this place, and its his go to. Weve since moved from Berkeley but we make the trip for their Chicken.Small place, you wouldnt know its there, unless you stumble on it, but in my opinion those are usually the best food place... The low-key Mom n Pops.

Review №21

2019-11-26 06:00:48

If you want to be full to the brim, his this spot. It may not look nice, but the short ribs are a must have. The portion is large and the meat is tender which makes it hard not to finish. Its very difficult to find a place where you get a better bang for your buck on short ribs of all things. The spicy pork is also worth a try.

Review №22

2021-02-19 01:36:28

Fast Korean food and a good bang for your buck. My personal favorite is the #2 on the menu. Spicy Pork over rice...but as a diabetic I can also get the meat over salad. A great balanced meal option is the #31 Bi Bim Bap as it comes with 6 different veggies (carrots, spinach, daikon, bean sprout, cabbage, and zuchini) and as an added bonus over medium pan fried egg. I have been eatting here since 2003 and that says a lot if I am still coming here to eat after 17 years.

Review №23

2019-01-29 04:56:43

Only been here for lunch about a dozen times. Not sure they even speak English, but they are friendly and get my low-carb chicken dish right all the time. Very tastey and good value. The meat seems to be precooked and they throw it on the grill to heat up. Free water and free hot tea is usually available as self serve.

Review №24

2022-02-24 00:18:09

The best Korean barbecue I’ve had in Berkeley so far. The spicy pork is a must get and the portions are enormous.

Review №25

2020-11-02 22:20:28

It doesn’t get any better than Steve’s. Their portions are large and their prices are quite affordable. I’ve spent $50 on Korean BBQ that is nowhere nearly as good. Kudos to the cooks.

Review №26

2013-08-11 22:53:42

A staple in the diet of a Cal student, Steves is a true Berkeley institution. Located in the so-called Asian Ghetto (a small courtyard sporting a collection of Asian eateries), Steves has outlasted many of the other stores with its superior value and good, solid grilled meats. The bar-b-que is all quite tasty, from the chicken to the spicy pork to the short ribs, and portion sizes are generous. Much like the other restaurants in the vicinity, the decor is nothing to write home about and theres not much service to speak of, but thats to be expected for the location and is honestly part of the charm. I have and always will look upon Steves with fondness, and will continue to look to it for a satisfying meal when Im in the area.

Review №27

2014-02-02 23:02:44

People like to say that this place isnt authentic or lacks in taste, but I guess thats okay with me. For around $10, the amount of short ribs and rice you can get is pretty good. At the end, Im usually left feeling satisfied.

Review №28

2013-08-09 17:35:44

If you want to eat high-class in the Asian Ghetto, this is the most expensive place there. A rice plate will run you around $9, but the portions they give you are enormous. The meat is okay, pretty dry, and the rice and kimchi are also just decent. If youre really craving Korean food, I think Kimchi Garden is a little more authentic, but if youre just craving Korean Barbeque, might as well go here.

Review №29

2015-11-17 02:36:38

I come here when I want a large amount of meat with a large amount of rice. I typically get the chicken with noodles, then douse it generously with their hot sauce.The sides of kimchi and beansprouts are pretty terrible, but thats not what I came here for.

Review №30

2019-12-21 16:11:17

Not super authentic but taste is still ok. Comes with free sides and tea. Portions are on th larger sides but if you want korean food I suggest going to t- toust or kimchi garden

Review №31

2017-03-23 14:25:51

Large portions of Korean BBQ, hot off the grill, for a good price. Friends and I like the BBQ chicken (juicy) more than the ribs (a little tough). Be careful walking; that linoleum floor is greasy!

Review №32

2017-01-30 01:21:38

Perfect place for a date. One dish with extra meat is more than enough for a solid dinner for two. Quick service, great food, and a lovely atmosphere. Steves is the way to go!

Review №33

2018-03-27 00:10:21

Had the lunch combo with spicy pork and chicken. The spicy pork had delicious flavor but the chicken lacked flavor. Next time, I’ll try their short ribs!

Review №34

2016-07-29 23:06:13

I always get the beef and rice (#1) and it is usually great. Sometimes it is not as flavorful. Theyre fairly quick to make it and staff is friendly. The prices are a bit high.

Review №35

2016-10-31 21:12:10

Food tastes ok but the meat sometimes has too much soup/sauce making it soggy. Still worth a quick bite if youre craving Korean food.

Review №36

2017-10-13 07:51:22

Affectionately named Estabans. I avoided this place for years but came back because of their large portions. You really get your moneys worth here, and while there are much better Korean options, this is okay.

Review №37

2015-07-22 19:43:19

Got to try out this place, small little restaurant surrounded by other small shops. Perfect for all the college kids . The price was pretty good for the amount of food you get . Its good if your local, but nothing really stands out that it would be a must go to place .

Review №38

2020-02-06 01:03:08

Always yummy, delicious traditional Korean food!!! I have been eating here regularly since the mid 1980s, & have loved it ever since!!! Definitely highly recommended!!!

Review №39

2021-08-10 05:15:33

Our all time favorite ❤ decent Korean spot in Berkeley. My favorite is Spicy Pork Bibimbap, the staffs are friendly and fast 😋 🙌 👌 😍 😀

Review №40

2018-08-31 23:43:57

Good deal for the money. Great flavors and variety. At around 8-12 dollars for lunch, and you wont go away hungry.

Review №41

2017-03-10 22:46:07

Great short ribs at cheap price

Review №42

2023-05-02 00:33:44

Place needs a good cleaning. Call out the health inspector.

Review №43

2017-05-24 22:55:45

Big portions of food that is proportionate to its prices. The kimchi and pickled vegetables are refreshing and goes well with the barbecue meat or poultry.

Review №44

2016-12-10 09:29:14

The food come in big servings and taste good. A lot of fat in their Kalbi tho. I would suggest Spicy Pork for meat dish and Spicy Beef Soup for soup dish

Review №45

2018-09-27 20:39:13

Large portions for a reasonable price. Good deal on the lunch special. Really good flavor, made to order.

Review №46

2017-01-19 17:25:16

Its poor mans Korean BBQ. Tastes great for the price. Large portions and made to order.

Review №47

2019-10-13 22:00:35

Best Korean BBQ around! I have been coming since 1994 and the quality of the food has always been great!

Review №48

2021-11-28 03:21:10

Been going here forever. Great food. Great sauce. Healthy.

Review №49

2023-01-21 21:38:28

My parents and I have been going since my dad was a student at call. Family staple

Review №50

2016-07-02 16:13:00

Good Korean barbeque but nothing special. Definitely get too much rice with your order.

Review №51

2021-09-07 22:33:26

Its a classic. Cant miss it. Especially if you like high protein healthy eating

Review №52

2022-02-08 06:44:10

Abolutely delicious BBQ chicken!

Review №53

2016-01-25 19:42:16

Delicious food for pretty cheap! Came with a lot of rice which is a nice bonus

Review №54

2019-11-23 20:56:54

I love this place. Im hooked on the bbq chicken. So tender and dry.

Review №55

2022-04-23 20:40:38

Avoid any soup & stew menu. Korean soup done badly.

Review №56

2019-01-11 09:10:54

OK for lunch. The taste differs a little from genuine Korean cuisine.

Review №57

2016-07-17 19:44:36

Delicious food for the price. The red sauce is fantastic.

Review №58

2017-05-29 21:41:12

Good amount of food for the price you pay. Very fast service.

Review №59

2021-11-25 02:45:40

Love this food ❤️very nice people working there thanks,☺️

Review №60

2019-09-21 02:34:18

The lunch special was cheap, and the meat was perfectly crispy.

Review №61

2017-03-18 01:34:47

Higher prices but big portions and nice people

Review №62

2016-08-24 00:59:17

Its sooo good but they give you more than you can eat

Review №63

2012-05-31 02:00:04

Cheap. But Berkel Berkel and Toast are a lot better and way more authentic

Review №64

2016-07-18 05:06:33

I love this place. Been coming for about 4 years now, and it never fails me!

Review №65

2017-03-04 03:45:18

Relative cheap for the amount they give you. great for a growing boy.

Review №66

2022-11-04 00:23:16

Massive amount of bbq for your dollar.

Review №67

2017-07-19 08:29:35

Quality BBQ and lots of meat. The condiments are not the best.

Review №68

2022-10-15 20:43:47

Always good and very friendly service

Review №69

2016-04-18 21:50:57

Foods okay. Dirt cheap and huge portions.

Review №70

2019-12-23 02:35:22

Inexpensive, large portions, fast, and satisfying.

Review №71

2020-12-11 22:19:59

Love this place I only wish they would serve more

Review №72

2019-10-01 03:55:13

The chicken bbq was bland and wasnt marinated enough.

Review №73

2022-09-20 01:16:17

Everything here taste delicious

Review №74

2016-08-15 18:52:34

Good meat, absolutely disgusting rice and vegetables.

Review №75

2020-07-03 21:59:17

Great quick and affordable meals.

Review №76

2017-01-21 22:04:29

You get big servings here.

Review №77

2013-07-01 04:47:24

Mmmm yum. Big portions

Review №78

2017-09-04 19:10:40

Itll fill your stomach and your toilet

Review №79

2021-09-28 04:59:29

Food was delicious.

Review №80

2021-01-21 06:37:06

The. Best.

Review №81

2021-11-13 06:24:07

The chicken is delicious!

Review №82

2019-11-24 07:07:39

Great affordable spot

Review №83

2016-10-03 13:18:05

Awesome Cal classic

Review №84

2019-12-22 19:44:16

Good stuff

Review №85

2016-10-31 20:23:24

Amazing Korean BBQ.

Review №86

2019-11-03 04:55:33

Pretty bland...

Review №87

2011-02-07 04:20:20

Hella food.

Review №88

2023-08-15 22:37:24

Good meat, cooked to order, at fairly fair prices for the area ($10-15 per dish). The atmosphere is very good, no frills. Generous portions.

Review №89

2018-01-13 02:39:08

This store will use change fraud. I paid 24 dollars for 9 dollars and gave only 10 dollars in change of 15 dollars. Even though I made a face of Eh, he said that I gave him $10. When I hung up even more, I finally put out 5 dollars with no expression. Im a believer. There is a possibility that he is a repeat offender because of his attitude. This is a shop to watch out for

Review №90

2019-10-26 02:30:35

This house recommends barbecue. ^^

Review №91

2017-09-29 05:43:41

Come to help and eat. Sorry if its fake.