Though Korean restaurants offer a wide range of tempting food selections, it seems that I always get most excited by the BBQ, especially during very cold weather. I had searched all over NYC seeking out the best Korean BBQ; from up and down "Korea Way" on Manhattan's 32nd Street, and of course Flushing. And the winner for my taste buds is . . . Mapo Korean BBQ in the Murray Hill area of Flushing. This year the restaurant is celebrating tenth anniversary. The restaurant is run by the engaging Pilan Park.

Even before entering Mapo Korean BBQ you can see what the restaurant is famous for . . . as the entire side of the wall of the restaurant advertises their stellar reputation for BBQ. Note Pilar Park proudly featured.

Mapo Korean BBQ is not fancy, but basic and comfortable. Nine tables each seating four with their own chimney. The decor is basically Korean Television and an autographed photo of a Korean pro golfer. But these surrounding are not important, the key element is the the table, the grilling.

The customary banchan, the small dishes, sixteen of them circle the grill. The basics; kimchi, seaweed, spinach, pickles, etc - some other items arrive "on the house" steamed scrambled eggs, and grilled cheese corn.

The coals burn hot . . . and this is one of the vital reasons that makes Mapo my favorite Korean BBQ in NYC, as most restaurants use gas stoves. And of course the superior quality of the beef, Black Angus Short Rib, though the Koreans call short rib "kalbi." Also, the marination they use is a special secret. The two servers, both lovely Korean ladies, who also spoke a little Chinese, and a tiny bit of English cut the chunks of beef with such concentration and watched each piece of beef with a sense of reverence. 

Mapo Korean BBQ also serves a delicious Seafood Pancake.

The owner, Pilan Park (on the left) and her associate Ms. Lee are gracious hosts at Mapo Korean BBQ . . . my favorite Korean BBQ in the city.

Korean language lesson - "Hello" (an nyoung ha se yo)  "Thank you"  (kome som be-da)   "Delicious"  (Mashi su yo)

Interesting fact about South Korea - South Korea has the world's highest estimated national IQ, with leading rakings in; math. science and problem solving.

Address - 14924 41st Avenue Flushing (Queens)  (718) 886 - 8292