Gyu-Kaku Japanese BBQ

So we are a big fan of the Korean barbecue but somehow took us a while to get to gyu-kaku and try the yakiniku style Japanese bbq. We had already decided to try the value course for 2. We were tempted by the more premium offerings but felt this is a good start. Started off with some comforting miso soup and edamame especially with the temperature outside hovering around 0. Next up was a refreshing salad which we dug into, in anticipation of what’s next. Then came the star of the show, the meat assortment. The bone in kalbi and angus beef rib were my favourite and my husband really dug into the umakare pork and the toro beef. Everything was perfectly marinated - enough to keep the flavour of the meat and add slight nuance to the taste. The marinated vegetables added a great crunch to accompany the meat. It also includes a serving of white rice to quell your carb needs! We got a portion of hot sake to accompany the meal which took everything a notch higher! Freddie took care of us and was excellent with his recommendations and pacing the portions so we didn’t feel rushed into the meal. Great experience in all and we will most likely be back soon!

This is my second time visiting this restaurant, and it’s a complete disappointment. The first time was amazing, but this time was terrible. The BBQ fire is uneven, with some areas being too hot and others too cold. This results in meat that is either burned or undercooked. To make matters worse, the portion sizes are incredibly small.

The food was average. We were waiting at the front and had a reservation. Multiple waiters and waitresses walked pass the area but didnt bother saying hello. We understand that they may not be the host but a simple hello we will be right with you would have been appreciated. It felt as if we weren’t really welcomed. Not just 1 but 4-5 people just walked by us through the small door. It took 15 minutes before we were helped and sat down. The server that helped us was very nice. The bbq seemed overhyped as it help pretty average. The salad and sushi was a bit too salty to my liking.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Gyu-Kaku Japanese BBQ – Downtown Chicago: A Meat Lovers’ Paradise! Our visit to Gyu-Kaku Japanese BBQ in downtown Chicago was absolutely unforgettable — an evening full of laughter, sizzling grills, and amazing food that left us saying, “We emoteped the bowls — and we’re definitely coming back!” 🔥🍲 From the moment we walked in, the staff greeted us with that signature Japanese warmth — smiles, energy, and genuine hospitality that made us feel right at home. The restaurant has a sleek, cozy vibe with just the right touch of modern flair. You can smell the sweet, smoky aroma of grilled meats as soon as you enter — and that’s when you know you’re in for something special. We went all in with the Meat Lovers’ Course, and oh, what a feast it was! Every round felt like a celebration: • Tender beef short ribs marinated to perfection, juicy and rich in flavor. • Pork belly and spicy chicken, bursting with that perfect smoky edge when grilled just right. • Filet mignon bites so soft they practically melted on the tongue. • A colorful spread of sides — from kimchi and edamame to seasoned rice bowls and dipping sauces that kept our chopsticks moving non-stop. We “emoteped the bowls” — meaning not a grain of rice or drop of sauce was left behind! Every dish hit that perfect balance of flavor, texture, and fun. The experience of cooking your own meats on the grill added to the excitement, with each person around the table becoming a mini chef, laughing and comparing grilling skills. And of course, we ended the night on a sweet note with their s’mores dessert — roasted right at the table. Warm, gooey, and nostalgic — it was the perfect finish to a night of indulgence. The service was top-notch throughout — fast, friendly, and attentive. Our server checked in often, offered helpful grilling tips, and made sure we had everything we needed without ever interrupting the flow of our night. Final Verdict: Gyu-Kaku Japanese BBQ isn’t just dinner — it’s an experience. Perfect for groups, birthdays, date nights, or just treating yourself to some incredible Japanese BBQ. Between the great atmosphere, amazing staff, and delicious food, this place earns a solid 5 stars from us. We laughed, we grilled, we emoteped the bowls — and we’ll absolutely be back for more! 🥢🔥 Follow for more🔥🔥🤩

So focused on the good food, I forgot to take a before picture! Our group highly enjoyed this location and the all you can eat style. We enjoyed the premium menu, especially the marinated meats. We appreciated that our server was attentive and efficient even though we were seated on the top floor. While we did make a reservation due to it being Saturday evening, it wasn't needed because they have a lot of space. I would skip the cocktails next time, they tasted quite watered down/sugary.