Kimchi Korean BBQ

Open

Closed

$

$$

🍱 Korean

•

Santa Barbara

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casual-dining

4.1
Vibrant Korean BBQ spot offering fresh all-you-can-eat meats, trendy casual vibe, and attentive service in Santa Barbara’s East San Roque.

$

$$

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casual-dining

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Kimchi Korean BBQ

Santa Barbara

$

Enjoy fresh Korean BBQ, banchan, and all-you-can-eat options with great service in a casual, lively vibe in Santa Barbara.

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About
4.1
(
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)

Kimchi Korean BBQ delivers a lively dining experience with an extensive selection of tender Korean BBQ meats and classic banchan sides served fast in a trendy, casual space.

The restaurant provides table service with a focus on all-you-can-eat options, accommodating lunch and dinner crowds with a welcoming atmosphere and friendly staff. Expect some noise and a busy vibe, typical for popular KBBQ joints.

What to Expect:

    🔥 All-you-can-eat Korean BBQ selections
    🥢 Classic Korean side dishes (banchan)
    🍺 Beer and wine offerings
    ⚡ Fast, attentive table service

Important Information:

    Parking: Free lot and street parking available
    Reservation: Not generally required but expect wait times at peak hours
    Dress Code: Casual
    Service Options: Dine-in, Delivery, and Takeout

Prepare for a buzzing atmosphere with some louder music; perfect for groups, college students, and tourists craving authentic Korean BBQ in Santa Barbara.

Haley's Pick 🍽️

You probably know her as @milehighandhungry. Each week, Haley shares the one place she’s obsessed with right now. From hidden gems to hot new openings, if she picks it, it’s worth the hype.

Haley's Review of Riot BBQ
Riot BBQ on South Delaware feels like a backyard cookout run by a Top Chef, because it is. Chef Manny Barella and pitmaster Patrick Klaiber have teamed up to blend Monterrey flavors with Texas-style smoke, and the results are seriously craveable.

The brisket steals the show: tender, deeply smoky, and finished with Barella’s bold spice rub. Get it solo or wrapped in buttery Raquelita tortillas. The pulled pork brings heat with ancho, guajillo, and morita chiles, and the al pastor ribs are sticky, sweet, and slightly charred in all the right ways.

Even the sides are insanely good! Think crunchy pepita-macha slaw and banana pudding served in a jar that tastes just like childhood (but better). Every bite feels intentional.

It’s barbecue with heart, history, and just the right amount of heat. Riot BBQ isn’t just a meal, it’s a moment worth lining up for.

– Haley @milehighandhungry
🔊
🔊
🔊

📍 Local Insights

🍚 Separate Rice Charge: Rice is not included by default and costs extra, so budget accordingly.

🎶 Expect Lively Vibes: Music can be loud with a club-like atmosphere; better for social dining than quiet meals.

🚗 Parking Tips: Ample free parking is available in the rear lot and on nearby streets; check the map for less crowded spots.

🕒 Peak Times: Weekends and evenings get busiest; arrive early to avoid waits and snag prime seating.

⏰ Hours

Monday: 12:00 PM–3:00 PM, 5:00 PM–10:00 PM

Tuesday: 12:00 PM–3:00 PM, 5:00 PM–10:00 PM

Wednesday: 12:00 PM–3:00 PM, 5:00 PM–10:00 PM

Thursday: 12:00 PM–3:00 PM, 5:00 PM–10:00 PM

Friday: 12:00 PM–3:00 PM, 5:00 PM–10:00 PM

Saturday: 12:00 PM–10:00 PM

Sunday: 12:00 PM–10:00 PM

👉 Best For

Groups, College students, BBQ lovers, Casual dinners
No items found.

Kimchi Korean BBQ

3132 State St
,
Santa Barbara
,
CA
93105

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Review Sentiment

Based on the 50 most recent Google reviews
Kimchi Korean BBQ is praised for fresh, tender meats and attentive service, especially from staff like Fernando. The all-you-can-eat format pleases hungry groups. Some guests note occasional slow service, confusing ordering, loud music, and surprising extra charges, which can detract from the experience. While many rave about the food quality and vibe, a few report dismissive staff behavior and billing disputes.

Last updated on

January 9th, 2026

From The preserve

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What You'll Find

All You Can Eat Korean BBQ, Bulgogi, Brisket, Beef Belly, Pork Belly, Korean Dumplings, Spicy Baby Octopus, Banchan Side Dishes, Korean BBQ, Beer, Wine

📆 Best Times to Visit

Visit weekdays during lunch or early dinner to avoid crowds. Weekend evenings fill quickly with groups, so arrive early or expect wait times.
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