Jong Kak

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Open 12:00 PM - 10:00 PM See Hours
Local 18 W 20th St, Baltimore, MD 21218, United States Local +1 4108-375-231
Wheree.com
In the heart of Maryland, an authentic Korean culinary experience is offered at a casual barbecue joint known for its unique Soot-Bool BBQ. The term Soot-Bool refers to the use of mesquite fire, a method where mesquite wood, soaked in water for several hours, is utilized. This technique ensures that the wood burns slower, imparting a distinctive flavor to the food. The cooking process is revered not only for its ability to enhance taste but also for its health benefits. It is understood that cooking with mesquite fire, as opposed to using grease or fatty oils, is a healthier alternative. The flavor infused by this method is unparalleled, and health-conscious diners appreciate the benefits it provides. A wide array of dishes is available, each meticulously prepared in the kitchen. Diners are given the opportunity to select from a variety of options, ensuring a satisfying meal that caters to diverse palates. Additionally, an assortment of beer and wine complements the dining experience, with offerings curated to pair well with the robust flavors of Korean BBQ. Proudly standing as the sole destination for Korean wooden charcoal BBQ in Maryland, this establishment welcomes guests to indulge in a traditional cooking style until the late hours. The tabletop charcoal grills invite diners to engage in the cooking experience, creating a memorable and interactive meal.

Amenities and More


  • Dine-in
  • Takeaway
  • Wheelchair-accessible entrance
  • Wheelchair-accessible seating
  • Wheelchair-accessible toilet
  • Alcohol
  • Healthy options
  • Late-night food
  • Spirits
  • Lunch
  • Dinner
  • Toilets
  • Cosy
  • Accepts reservations
  • Credit cards
  • Debit cards
  • Fast service
  • Small plates
  • Casual
  • Groups

Banchan Tradition at Jong Kak

A celebration of flavors is honored with each meal through the serving of traditional Banchan. These small side dishes are meticulously prepared and presented to complement the main course. An array of vibrant colors and textures is offered, each dish crafted to offer a unique taste and a glimpse into the culinary heritage that Jong Kak proudly upholds. Banchan are not simply side dishes; they are a staple of the dining experience, deeply rooted in tradition. With every meal, a selection of Banchan is provided, designed to balance and enhance the palate. It is through these small but significant offerings that the rich tapestry of flavors in cuisine is explored and appreciated.
In the realm of Banchan, variety and quality are paramount. Each dish is a result of careful preparation, with ingredients chosen for their freshness and their ability to harmonize with the main dish. The culinary philosophy that drives the creation of Banchan at Jong Kak advocates for a dining experience that is both holistic and satisfying. The enjoyment of Banchan is embraced as a cultural journey, with tastes ranging from pickled vegetables, and seasoned greens, to savory pancakes. These dishes are not just consumed; they are experienced, each bite an affirmation of a culinary culture that values diversity and flavor.

Jong Kak's Culinary Photos

A journey through the essence of Korean cuisine at Jong Kak is captured in a series of photos, each dish artfully photographed to showcase the vibrant colors and intricate textures. The photos feature traditional favorites such as Bibimbap, with its harmonious blend of ingredients, Marinated Bulgogi exuding the depth of its savory marinade, and the robust Kim Chi Jji Gae, a testament to the balance of spice and flavor. These images are not merely pictures; they are an invitation, extended to all who view them, to explore the rich culinary landscape of Jong Kak.

Jong Kak's Diverse Menu

Kim Chi JJi Gae

Kim Chi JJi Gae, a spicy soup teeming with thinly sliced pork, tofu, and kimchi, provides a warm, invigorating start to the meal. Customization is embraced, with the option to enhance the soup with extra banchan, noodles, or additional white rice for those desiring a fuller experience.

Marinated Bulgogi

The Marinated Bulgogi is a testament to the art of Korean cuisine, featuring thin slices of prime beef steeped in a sweet sauce, striking a balance between savory and sweet. Guests may complement this dish with kimchi, extra white rice, or lettuce, allowing for a tailored meal that satisfies their individual tastes.

Seafood Pancake

Seafood enthusiasts are catered to with the Seafood Pancake, an iconic Korean-style pancake that encapsulates a mixture of seafood, green peppers, and scallions, offering a crispy outer layer and succulent interior.

Complimentary Parking at Jong Kak

Safety measures are implemented to ensure that the parking lot is secure. Adequate lighting and surveillance are in place, providing peace of mind for guests while they savor their meals. The convenience of this amenity is a testament to the consideration given to all aspects of customer care. The presence of free parking serves not only as a practical benefit but also as an extension of hospitality. Guests can indulge in the flavors of Korea knowing that their vehicles are parked safely and without cost. This complimentary service is part of the restaurant's dedication to creating an exceptional dining environment, from the plate to the parking lot.
Upon arrival, guests are greeted by the comfort of not having to search for parking space. The hassle often associated with limited parking in bustling urban areas is alleviated, allowing patrons to focus solely on their culinary journey. The parking lot is maintained regularly, ensuring that vehicles are housed in a clean and orderly environment. Accessibility is a priority, and the parking area is designed to cater to a diverse clientele, including families, individuals on business, or groups celebrating special occasions. The entrance and exit points are clearly marked, facilitating smooth traffic flow and a stress-free arrival and departure.

Payment Options

The convenience of guests is prioritized, and this is reflected in the variety of payment methods that are accepted. Transactions can be effortlessly completed using credit cards, a widely accepted method for secure and fast payments. Similarly, debit cards are accommodated, offering an immediate deduction of funds from one's banking account. For a contactless and swift payment experience, NFC mobile payments are embraced, allowing diners to use their smartphones for transactions. It is ensured that all electronic payments are processed with the utmost security, providing peace of mind to diners. The introduction of these payment options is in response to the evolving preferences for cashless transactions in the dining industry. By offering multiple payment solutions, it is aimed to cater to the convenience of each guest, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable dining experience from the moment they are seated until the final check is settled. Guests are invited to select the payment method that best suits their needs, ensuring a smooth and efficient conclusion to their gastronomic adventure at Jong Kak.

Excellence in Fresh Ingredients

In crafting dishes like beef bibimbap, chicken bulgogi, gop chang jji gae, and dumpling soup, a steadfast dedication to using fresh ingredients is maintained. The authenticity of Korean cuisine hinges on the quality and freshness of its components, and this principle is rigorously upheld. Each ingredient is selected with an eye for freshness, ensuring that the culinary traditions of Korea are honored in every bite. The vegetables that find their way into these dishes are chosen for their crispness and color, contributing to both the visual appeal and the nutritional value of the meal. Meats are procured based on stringent criteria of freshness and quality, reflecting a commitment to delivering the true flavors of Korea.

Delivery Services

The convenience of enjoying Jong Kak's authentic Korean cuisine from the comfort of home is ensured by a robust delivery service. Meals are brought directly to the doorstep through partnerships with prominent delivery platforms such as Try Caviar, Uber Eats, Seamless, Doordash, and Postmates. The integration of these services allows for a seamless ordering process, where a diverse range of Korean dishes can be selected and delivered promptly.

Reviews

4.3/5
10 reviews
5 stars
4 stars
3 stars
2 stars
1 stars
Clinton Burgett
Clinton burgett
March 13, 2024
My food was ready pretty quickly. I ordered pork dumplings and moved them. Parking was hard to find. There is paid street parking on that very street but most spots were taken. The place was not too crowded but I had to signal waiters to get their attention.
Andrew Matsuoka
Andrew matsuoka
March 13, 2024
Slightly sketchy area, (and I say that from living in a 2 mile radius from this place for the last 8 years.) Besides that, the food was amazing. Went with a half bbq #3 for 2 people. The amount of meat and 11 types of sides, soup and boiled egg just absolutely stuffed us both and it was pretty damn delicious to!
Isabel Zavala
Isabel zavala
March 13, 2024
The food is still good but went recently and the service was really really really slow. We waited over 30 minutes before someone took our orders and refills on water were non-existent. There is a card on the table that says customers should …
Haohao Wang
Haohao wang
March 13, 2024
I ADORE this place, I always come for the Korean BBQ! I think this was my 5th time coming here. It is always always delicious and i always eat more than i thought i could haha i have gotten both the beef combo(Combo #2) and the pork …
Franci Davidson
Franci davidson
March 13, 2024
The staff's politeness and the proprietor's warm reception would make even my harshest critic nod in approval. The culinary offerings here are a symphony of authenticity, reminiscent of my South Korean roots and daringly comparable to the …
Anthony N
Anthony n
March 13, 2024
Jong Kak, a restaurant that has captured my heart. The proprietors and staff consistently extend warm and friendly hospitality to patrons, often treating us to delectable Banchan, showcasing the authenticity of Korean cuisine. …
Scott Donovan
Scott donovan
March 13, 2024
A GRAND TIME! A group of four headed to this spot after an art show we attended about 15mins away. We arrived close to 11pm. They asked if we were doing BBQ and immediately seated at a grill table in the back. Pak was our waiter and was …
yoel garcia
Yoel garcia
March 13, 2024
Unbelievable. If you are in town for a conference, staying at Baltimore Hilton, or any of the other inner harbor hotels, go to the best Korean barbecue in the world. Charcoal tables, cook tables, grill tables, Korean bbq barbecue, Korean …
Faye Houtz
Faye houtz
March 13, 2024
Delicious food, generous with banchan, high quality meat. And they use charcoal not gas. The service was excellent, too. No wait times for a Friday around 5pm. My only complaint is that once the place fills up and the whole room is doing …
Star Lite
Star lite
March 13, 2024
Everything was really good, the service was just slow the day that I went. We didn't get our menus or drinks for a while and pur appetizer was kind of cold. They have karaoke rooms to rent upstairs and a bar up there as well. The empoyees were very nice.

Indulge in Jong Kak's Culinary Delights

Discover a world of delicious cuisine at the restaurant, where every dish is an adventure in flavor. Guests are cordially invited to partake in the array of delectable meals prepared for your dining pleasure. For directions, please utilize the convenience of Google Maps provided below to locate the restaurant with ease.

Location

18 W 20th St, Baltimore, MD 21218, United States

Hours

  • Monday Close
  • Tuesday
    12:00 PM - 10:00 PM
  • Wednesday
    12:00 PM - 10:00 PM
  • Thursday
    12:00 PM - 10:00 PM
  • Friday
    12:00 PM - 02:00 AM
  • Saturday
    12:00 PM - 02:00 AM
  • Sunday
    12:00 PM - 10:00 PM

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