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YakiniQ

Korean · San Jose

4.3 · 628 reviews Google

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www.yakiniq-sanjose.com
Yelp 4.0 (1,381)

About YakiniQ

En YakiniQ, te invitamos a disfrutar de una experiencia culinaria coreana única y divertida. Sumérgete en nuestro ambiente vibrante y degusta una increíble selección de carnes para tu propia barbacoa coreana de mesa, ¡todo lo que puedas comer! Acompáñalo con nuestras cervezas y cócteles de soju para...

En YakiniQ, te invitamos a disfrutar de una experiencia culinaria coreana única y divertida. Sumérgete en nuestro ambiente vibrante y degusta una increíble selección de carnes para tu propia barbacoa coreana de mesa, ¡todo lo que puedas comer! Acompáñalo con nuestras cervezas y cócteles de soju para una velada inolvidable.

What Customers Say About YakiniQ

YakiniQ is a popular AYCE Korean BBQ known for its great value, variety of meat options (especially marinated beef bulgogi), and fast service via QR code ordering. Be prepared for long wait times, and the space can feel cramped. Some found the temperature uncomfortably cold.

Popular Dishes

beef bul beefs shrimps chicken Shrimp Brisket Short rib Premium boneless short rib

Best For

Groups Families Tourists

Tip: Join the online waitlist in advance, aiming for 4 PM to be seated around 6 PM.

Features

📶 WiFi 🅿️ Parking Accessible 🌙 Dinner
🎯 Casual 🛋️ Cozy Trendy 👨‍👩‍👧 Family 👥 Groups

What to see nearby

Hester Park
A 869m

Hester Park

parque

View details
Rosaleda Municipal de San José
A 954m

Rosaleda Municipal de San José

parque

View details

Data from Wikidata

Explore the area around YakiniQ

YakiniQ is located in San Jose, surrounded by cultural and historical points of interest. Here are some of the most notable places nearby.

Parks & Gardens

  • Hester Park (A 869m) — park in Santa Clara County, California, United States of America
  • Rosaleda Municipal de San José (A 954m) — jardín histórico en San José, California

Data from Wikidata

Frequently asked questions about YakiniQ

YakiniQ is located at 1783 W San Carlos St, San Jose, CA 95128, San Jose.
Near YakiniQ you can find points of interest such as Hester Park, Rosaleda Municipal de San José.
YakiniQ offers korean cuisine.
YakiniQ has regular opening hours. Check their profile for updated schedules.
YakiniQ offers the following services: dine-in, takeaway.
The most recommended dishes at YakiniQ based on customer reviews are: beef bul, beefs, shrimps, chicken, Shrimp.
YakiniQ is ideal for groups, families, tourists.
YakiniQ is a popular AYCE Korean BBQ known for its great value, variety of meat options (especially marinated beef bulgogi), and fast service via QR code ordering. Be prepared for long wait times, and the space can feel cramped. Some found the temperature uncomfortably cold.
Join the online waitlist in advance, aiming for 4 PM to be seated around 6 PM.
628
Reviews

YakiniQ San Jose Reviews

4.3
628
5★
64%
4★
19%
3★
6%
2★
2%
1★
9%
Reviews (40)
R
Rocky Quat

Went here on a Friday, the wait was about 2 hours but if you get on the waitlist about 2 hours prior then you can gauge a better time to come, however you need to be in range to join the list. Surprisingly this Friday wasn’t as packed but still a full house. The food came out fast and was good quality as we got the premium selection so you know we had to get the wagyu option. I’d stay clear of all the marinated meets until you get everything else first. The reason why is because the marinated meat will crust of that cook top like no other and it will start to burn; then you’ll have to get a grill change and start over. No hard but just a hassle. Plenty of seating and roomy as long as you sit down and don’t move. The tables are shorter which gives you the closeness vibe to those you eat it. Will come again and again.

J
Jacob Stahleker

Very yummy all-you-can-eat Korean BBQ! They were consistent with changing the grill tops to ensure you always had a clean one. You order whatever you want on your phone, and they bring it out quickly to the table. The only reason I gave it 4 stars is because short ribs are extra after your first order and we waited 1 hour for a table. Went with 4 people, and our total was $170 after beer and all-you-can-eat. Would definitely come back!

D
Dan Kim

Came on a Friday since they open early Fri-Sun but otherwise 5 PM. So off the bat they are pretty solid, sides aren't that great but it's fine but the meats are all above average. Going with premium is the way to go if you've never visited. Overall price and quality it's solid so would recommend if their hours are workable with you.

t
t diamond

Our first time here, really busy and very accommodating. And the food is so delicious! We had chicken Shrimp Brisket Short rib Premium boneless short rib The marinades were all so tasty The employees are amazing, hard working and all in sync. I would recommend highly

O
Oleksandr M.

My new favorite KBBQ in the Bay Area. The meat quality and selection are exceptional. I wish it was warmer inside, I have to keep my jacket on while eating.

G
George Chang

Best value per cost Korean BBQ in Bay Area. We never stepped in Gen Korean BBQ after our first visit here. They serve you way faster than Gen. We usually go for 31.99 / person for 90 minutes. The meat quality is petty good. Side dishes are also delicious.

J
Jonathan Joo

My favorite ayce kbbq in the area!! Most similar to KBBQs I've been to in Korea in terms of vibe, and the price to quality ratio is very good!

V
Vicky T

Pro: this place has variety of meat options and gopchang. The quality of the meat is very good. They have a lot of delicious side dishes to choose and soup options. Order through QR code. Order came out quick. Servers constantly change the grill. We came early at 5pm and were seated right away. There was a long line waited outside when we left at 7pm on Monday night Cons: the grill get burned so quick

J
Judy Margaret Chen

It’s a great AYCE Korean BBQ in the bay. We have had a terrific experience with our friends. Amazing food, wonderful BBQ atmosphere where you can be as loud as tourists can and nobody cares and great service from the staff. My personal favorite of the meat selection would be their marinated beef bulgogi. Very well seasoned! At the end the meal, we got complimentary ice cream cup free for everyone. I didn’t expect that. Just a small ice cream cup but it sure blissed my night.

M
M M

I used the yelp waitlist. It originally said it would take an average of 75 mins. But it really only took 20 mins. This was on a Saturday afternoon (~4:30pm) Used a qr code to order food. Food came pretty promptly, and our grill was routinely changed. The staff were very proactive, nice and quick. The table was set up with several Banchan (side dishes) upon sitting down at the table.

t diamond
t diamond

Our first time here, really busy and very accommodating. And the food is so delicious! We had chicken Shrimp Brisket Short rib Premium boneless short rib The marinades were all so tasty The employees are amazing, hard working and all in sync. I would recommend highly

Oleksandr M.
Oleksandr M.

My new favorite KBBQ in the Bay Area. The meat quality and selection are exceptional. I wish it was warmer inside, I have to keep my jacket on while eating.

George Chang
George Chang

Best value per cost Korean BBQ in Bay Area. We never stepped in Gen Korean BBQ after our first visit here. They serve you way faster than Gen. We usually go for 31.99 / person for 90 minutes. The meat quality is petty good. Side dishes are also delicious.

Jonathan Joo
Jonathan Joo

My favorite ayce kbbq in the area!! Most similar to KBBQs I've been to in Korea in terms of vibe, and the price to quality ratio is very good!

J
J

Great food, I like the beefs and shrimps. Make sure you make online waitlist reservations before you go though. Aim for 4PM to seat at 6PM

Vicky T
Vicky T

Pro: this place has variety of meat options and gopchang. The quality of the meat is very good. They have a lot of delicious side dishes to choose and soup options. Order through QR code. Order came out quick. Servers constantly change the grill. We came early at 5pm and were seated right away. There was a long line waited outside when we left at 7pm on Monday night Cons: the grill get burned so quick

Judy Margaret Chen
Judy Margaret Chen

It’s a great AYCE Korean BBQ in the bay. We have had a terrific experience with our friends. Amazing food, wonderful BBQ atmosphere where you can be as loud as tourists can and nobody cares and great service from the staff. My personal favorite of the meat selection would be their marinated beef bulgogi. Very well seasoned! At the end the meal, we got complimentary ice cream cup free for everyone. I didn’t expect that. Just a small ice cream cup but it sure blissed my night.

Rocky Quat
Rocky Quat

Went here on a Friday, the wait was about 2 hours but if you get on the waitlist about 2 hours prior then you can gauge a better time to come, however you need to be in range to join the list. Surprisingly this Friday wasn’t as packed but still a full house. The food came out fast and was good quality as we got the premium selection so you know we had to get the wagyu option. I’d stay clear of all the marinated meets until you get everything else first. The reason why is because the marinated meat will crust of that cook top like no other and it will start to burn; then you’ll have to get a grill change and start over. No hard but just a hassle. Plenty of seating and roomy as long as you sit down and don’t move. The tables are shorter which gives you the closeness vibe to those you eat it. Will come again and again.

Jacob Stahleker
Jacob Stahleker

Very yummy all-you-can-eat Korean BBQ! They were consistent with changing the grill tops to ensure you always had a clean one. You order whatever you want on your phone, and they bring it out quickly to the table. The only reason I gave it 4 stars is because short ribs are extra after your first order and we waited 1 hour for a table. Went with 4 people, and our total was $170 after beer and all-you-can-eat. Would definitely come back!

Dan Kim
Dan Kim

Came on a Friday since they open early Fri-Sun but otherwise 5 PM. So off the bat they are pretty solid, sides aren't that great but it's fine but the meats are all above average. Going with premium is the way to go if you've never visited. Overall price and quality it's solid so would recommend if their hours are workable with you.

L
LUCKY CLOVERS

Took my co-workers here for his birthday, first time here. The waitress wasn’t clear at explaining the menu to us. She sat us down on the small little round table for (4). Round table so small, hardly any space to put the Sapporo. Waitress doesn’t tell us to scanned QR code menu to start. We just sat there for 10’ minutes wondering why no menu. Then 45’ into our bad experiences, something exploded at the counter. Smokes overwhelmed the air , everyone had to dashed for the door. Overall services can be much better( tell new customers to scanned QR CODE MENU to start). Cleared the sauce bottles on the table, for bid more space. Will not recommend anyone I know to come here. A lot better Korean barbecue restaurants, I have been.

A
Ash

This is probably one of the best Kbbq in the bay area that is reasonably priced. They have a good variety of meat offerings. The sides are nothing to be impressed about but it's good enough. The space itself is kind of small and felt pretty cramped. I was told last night that there were lots of cold breeze at some tables because they usually leave their back door open for air flow. Previously, we've always been offered ice cream when they dropped off the check but not last night; we had to ask about it as we weren't sure if they stopped including ice cream.

LUCKY CLOVERS
LUCKY CLOVERS

Took my co-workers here for his birthday, first time here. The waitress wasn’t clear at explaining the menu to us. She sat us down on the small little round table for (4). Round table so small, hardly any space to put the Sapporo. Waitress doesn’t tell us to scanned QR code menu to start. We just sat there for 10’ minutes wondering why no menu. Then 45’ into our bad experiences, something exploded at the counter. Smokes overwhelmed the air , everyone had to dashed for the door. Overall services can be much better( tell new customers to scanned QR CODE MENU to start). Cleared the sauce bottles on the table, for bid more space. Will not recommend anyone I know to come here. A lot better Korean barbecue restaurants, I have been.

Ash
Ash

This is probably one of the best Kbbq in the bay area that is reasonably priced. They have a good variety of meat offerings. The sides are nothing to be impressed about but it's good enough. The space itself is kind of small and felt pretty cramped. I was told last night that there were lots of cold breeze at some tables because they usually leave their back door open for air flow. Previously, we've always been offered ice cream when they dropped off the check but not last night; we had to ask about it as we weren't sure if they stopped including ice cream.

Andre Nguyen
Andre Nguyen

Great value. Long long long wait time. But once your seated the qr and phone interface love it fast and easy to use. Super reasonable prices. Great food. Great selection on meats. Small table for feeling cozy.

T. H.
T. H.

5 STARS all the way! My family and I have been here many times throughout the last 7 years and it never disappointing. The environment (like the crowdedness and service) is very close to what you would get in South Korea and it feels quite authentic. The meat just melts in my mouth and feels like heaven. It is quite popular, so I would recommend getting there before they open or during non-peak hours.

d
deez nuts

Overall Very good, meats were ok better than Gen but -1 star because why was the front receptionist was answering the phone and talking for so long while there was a line of people waiting. I feel like customers there should be prioritized and the caller should be left on hold first. Didnt really like this kind of grill because it was ‘sticky’ if you know what i mean didnt really give the best charr compare to other type of kbbq grill Table was quite small but its ok not a big deal to me Still had a good meal, would come back again bc its good for price compared to other kbbq

J
Jimmy Toan Khuu

This place is not too big so wait time can be long during peak hour, make sure you join waiting list before. The atmosphere is great and I love that they left all the sauce on each table so you can refill yourself. Also like an idea of ordering through your phone so you don't have to wave or looking for a waiter/ waitress but that too creat a small problem. Employees are not really friendly or make contact with customers, some of them are not even speak English. When they bring us dessert the waitress just like shovel it into our face without saying anything and wait for us to take it from her, quite unprofessional in my opinion. Put that aside I think foods are very decent and the good sauce have made our meal better. The variety of sides order also gave us more flavor. Your order also quickly delivered to the table. In overall we love the place, just hope for the employees will be more lively and friendly. Definitely coming back for more.

D
David Nguyen

If you're a fan of all-you-can-eat KBBQ, Yakini Q SJ is a must-visit! The standout feature here is the quality of the meats—they're fresh, flavorful, and perfectly marinated. The side dishes are also plentiful and tasty, with the option to order more if needed. While there is a slight upcharge for premium cuts, they are definitely worth the extra cost. Service + environment is decent, since the restaurant can get busy during the weekends. Also expect 30-40 min wait time if you're coming here on the weekend. Nonetheless, it's a great spot for a satisfying KBBQ experience, and I plan to return sometime soon 😄

Jimmy Toan Khuu
Jimmy Toan Khuu

This place is not too big so wait time can be long during peak hour, make sure you join waiting list before. The atmosphere is great and I love that they left all the sauce on each table so you can refill yourself. Also like an idea of ordering through your phone so you don't have to wave or looking for a waiter/ waitress but that too creat a small problem. Employees are not really friendly or make contact with customers, some of them are not even speak English. When they bring us dessert the waitress just like shovel it into our face without saying anything and wait for us to take it from her, quite unprofessional in my opinion. Put that aside I think foods are very decent and the good sauce have made our meal better. The variety of sides order also gave us more flavor. Your order also quickly delivered to the table. In overall we love the place, just hope for the employees will be more lively and friendly. Definitely coming back for more.

deez nuts
deez nuts

Overall Very good, meats were ok better than Gen but -1 star because why was the front receptionist was answering the phone and talking for so long while there was a line of people waiting. I feel like customers there should be prioritized and the caller should be left on hold first. Didnt really like this kind of grill because it was ‘sticky’ if you know what i mean didnt really give the best charr compare to other type of kbbq grill Table was quite small but its ok not a big deal to me Still had a good meal, would come back again bc its good for price compared to other kbbq

d
dorwin T

Finally got to try this place! The restaurant isn’t particularly spacious, with tables packed close together. The moment you step in, your shoes immediately stick to the greasy floor. With no exhaust fans running, the whole place feels like a no-frills street-side food stall. We reserved a spot online an hour ahead and ordered by scanning the QR code—super convenient since it skips the wait for servers to take your order. Dishes arrived pretty quickly. The servers worked swiftly, though the food placement areas weren’t the cleanest. All sauces, napkins, and chopsticks were stocked on a wall shelf for self-service—a true DIY setup. Portions here are massive, so resist the urge to order too much initially—just add more if something hits the spot. Their kimchi is a standout (and refill portions stay just as generous!). At the end they offer a strawberry ice cream for free. That’s nice!Overall, it's a solid experience, but consider this a heads-up: You might want to plan a post-meal bathroom detour.**

dorwin T
dorwin T

Finally got to try this place! The restaurant isn’t particularly spacious, with tables packed close together. The moment you step in, your shoes immediately stick to the greasy floor. With no exhaust fans running, the whole place feels like a no-frills street-side food stall. We reserved a spot online an hour ahead and ordered by scanning the QR code—super convenient since it skips the wait for servers to take your order. Dishes arrived pretty quickly. The servers worked swiftly, though the food placement areas weren’t the cleanest. All sauces, napkins, and chopsticks were stocked on a wall shelf for self-service—a true DIY setup. Portions here are massive, so resist the urge to order too much initially—just add more if something hits the spot. Their kimchi is a standout (and refill portions stay just as generous!). At the end they offer a strawberry ice cream for free. That’s nice!Overall, it's a solid experience, but consider this a heads-up: You might want to plan a post-meal bathroom detour.**

N
Ngoc Nguyen

I’m honestly shocked by how we were treated. After sitting for about two hours, the girl who I assume is the manager, came to our table and threatened to charge us extra for “staying too long” without any prior warning. We had already paid and stopped ordering, yet there was still food on our table, which we were perfectly fine finishing. The overall service was terrible, and her attitude was rude and unprofessional. After reading other negative reviews, it seems this same manager has caused problems for other customers. The restaurant needs to take responsibility and address her behavior. It’s unbelievable that a restaurant would treat paying customers this way.

K
Kim

I come expecting Korean BBQ not party place. Vibe ghetto and uncomfortable. Music to loud from back like club not restaurant. Hard to enjoy food. Outside the employee cars playing loud music also. Before even walk in already feel bad. Homeless people around and area feel unsafe. As woman I dont feel comfortable here. Korean restaurant should feel warm and welcoming. This place is not I will not come back

J
Jake Dou

I visited this restaurant recently and had a pretty chilly experience—literally. The kitchen door was left open the entire time, and the cold wind just kept blowing inside, making it uncomfortably cold. On top of that, the service was quite slow. We had to ask three or four times just to get a pair of tongs for the meat, and they never actually brought them. Also, the beef strangely had a bit of a porky taste to it, which was kind of odd

T
Trang Ngo

My family has been a regular like years. I always join the waitlist on Yelp, but at the moment they open at 5pm, I tried to join but the waitlist was closed. At 5:33 pm I called to ask how long the current wait was, the lady staff said there is currently no wait. I said I will be there in 20 mins. When we got to the restaurant, she said the current wait is 2 hours while she was taking reservations on the phone. She couldve told us or added us on the waitlist the first place I called. We ended up leaving the restaurant. Unprofessional and lack of communication. Overall, the service was lacking. Slow, inattentive, and not very organized.

Brendan Gonzalez
Brendan Gonzalez

I've never had to leave a negative review before, but I feel obligated to share an incident from yesterday : This used to be our go-to spot, but unfortunately we experienced some nasty and aggressive behavior from one of the Managers, Manny, who deliberately went out of her way to antagonize us. She slammed dishes really aggressively at us and physically bumped into us a few times without apologizing. There was a particular instance where she aggressively hit our tongs out of the way when changing the grill, and when I looked up at her in disbelief, she smiled in a mocking way. Nobody deserves to be subjected to this type of behavior. I understand they are busy and may be under some stress, but this type of temperament does not belong in the front of house, period. Will only be back as a last resort. There are so many great AYCE places that treat you with baseline respect.

Trang Ngo
Trang Ngo

My family has been a regular like years. I always join the waitlist on Yelp, but at the moment they open at 5pm, I tried to join but the waitlist was closed. At 5:33 pm I called to ask how long the current wait was, the lady staff said there is currently no wait. I said I will be there in 20 mins. When we got to the restaurant, she said the current wait is 2 hours while she was taking reservations on the phone. She couldve told us or added us on the waitlist the first place I called. We ended up leaving the restaurant. Unprofessional and lack of communication. Overall, the service was lacking. Slow, inattentive, and not very organized.

Jake Dou
Jake Dou

I visited this restaurant recently and had a pretty chilly experience—literally. The kitchen door was left open the entire time, and the cold wind just kept blowing inside, making it uncomfortably cold. On top of that, the service was quite slow. We had to ask three or four times just to get a pair of tongs for the meat, and they never actually brought them. Also, the beef strangely had a bit of a porky taste to it, which was kind of odd

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About YakiniQ

How to get there

1783 W San Carlos St, San Jose, CA 95128

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Highlights

Good Rating
4.3/5 stars
💬
Many Reviews
628 reviews
💰
Moderate Price
Price level
👨‍🍳
korean
Cuisine type

Services

🍾 Dinner
🍰 Desserts
🥡 Takeout
🍴 Dine-in

Dining Options

🍽️ Dine In
🥡 Takeout

Restaurant Info

Status
Verified by owner
🕐 Hours Today
2-11PM
Rating
4.3/5
💬 Reviews
628
💰 Price Level
$$
⏱️ Typical Visit
People typically spend 20 min to 2 hr here
📞 Phone
+1 408-564-6335
🌐 Website
www.yakiniq-sanjose.com
📋 Menu
View Menu

Amenities

📶 Free WiFi
🅿️ Parking
Wheelchair Accessible
🚻 Restroom
💳 Credit Cards
📱 Mobile Payments
🏘️

The Neighborhood

Hester Park

park in Santa Clara County, California, United States of America

A 869m
Rosaleda Municipal de San José

jardín histórico en San José, California

A 954m
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