Korean BBQ Anyone?

Dolsot House is tucked away in a small shopping center called Saw Mill Village in Cherry Hill, New Jersey. Over the years, the restaurant’s name and a few staff members have changed, but not much else. It is still just as warm and welcoming as the day I first stepped inside. Dolsot House continues to be unmatched by any other Korean Barbeque restaurant I’ve visited, with everything from the friendly staff to the cozy interior to the delicious food. I’ve been going to this restaurant since 2012, and I still enjoy it every time.

My sister and I watched Korean Dramas for years; while seeing all the delicious food they ate, we decided we wanted to try it. After researching good Korean Barbeque places near us, we found Dolsot House, formerly Sammy Chon’s K-Town B.B.Q. We narrowed it down to about three restaurants, with this being the first one we’d visit. It turned out to be the only one. We never felt the need to go to the others because we knew this would be the place for us before leaving the building.

Atmosphere:

This restaurant has indoor and outdoor seating options with an awning in case you need some shade. To the left of the door is a massive window that provides light and warmth to anyone sitting near it. They usually have a pulled shade during the midday, so the sun doesn’t shine too bright inside. The sunlight mixed with the artificial lantern-style lights hanging from the ceiling provides the restaurant with its beauty.

The tables are situated to provide enough space for a comfortable dining experience. While going over the menu or waiting for food, soft music plays over the speaker. When I first started going to Dolsot House, the only music they played was K-pop, which was fine because I sang along. However, they now play a mix of Pop and K-pop depending on the time of day. They also play sports most of the time instead of the Korean shows and music videos they used to play. Although, depending on the time of day, that may change.

I have come at varying times and days of the week, and just like any other food place, it has its busy times. There are fewer people earlier in the day, so if you enjoy having a quiet space with few people talking and quicker food delivery, that’s the best time to go. Late afternoon to evening is when the place gets packed, and it’s hard to get a table without a reservation. There is also a slightly longer wait time for food. However, even though they are busy, the staff work hard and fast to ensure you aren’t waiting too long.

The Staff:

When my sister and I first tried them out, they came over to our table and made sure we understood anything on the menu we asked. They took the time to answer questions we had with no hint of frustration. They did not rush us to pick something we weren’t sure of; the following few times we went, they did the same thing, even knowing that we’ve been there before.

Over the years, my sister and I have invited people to come with us, and they all got the same treatment from the staff. Though most of the original team has left since they were college students, some remain.

The head server has been there for as long as we’ve been going, probably before that. I brought some other family members a few times, and she remembers them. Every time I see her, she asks about my mother, grandmother, father, and sisters. She already remembered my order about the third time going and still remembers it. My sister moved away years ago, yet whenever she stops by the restaurant, the head server still remembers her order. We usually stick to the same foods that we fell in love with, but sometimes we like to add something new to the mix.

Food & Drink:

Canned sodas are the primary drinks. The server brings the can over to the table with a glass full of ice. When you get a refill, they bring over a new can and a fresh glass and take away the old ones. They also have warm beverages available like tea. They do not serve alcoholic drinks, but you may bring your own. After you get your drinks, the food rolls out.

First comes the side dishes while you wait for your appetizers or main course. These are small dishes that are usually served cold or at room temperature. They are also rarely ever the same when I return.

The appetizers are next to come out. Some of them are the same as the main dishes, just in a reduced size. I’ve tried a few, with my favorite being honey sesame fried wings.

The main menu has a nice variety of foods, including soups, barbeque, noodles, hoagies (subs), and more. The portions are plentiful and, at times, have been more generous than expected. Several dishes have options to suit vegetarians or vegans. My favorites are the L.A. Kalbi and the Dolsot Bibimbap. These dishes come in stone plates and bowls that keep the food hot and continue the cooking process while it’s on the table.

When the food comes out to the table, you can hear it still sizzling. If the sizzle isn’t enough for you, the steam that still rises from the dishes lets you know that the food is still piping hot. My mouth is already watering by this time because I know what’s coming next; I get to eat it. The food stays hot for a long time, which is a plus for me since I’m a slow eater.

When the meal is over, and you’re ready to leave, they bring the check along with small probiotic drinks. They give enough for the number of guests dining. They often say goodbye as you go. I usually carry a takeout or to-go back for what I couldn’t finish.

Over the years, I’ve been to Dolsot house by myself, with family and friends. No matter what, I feel comfortable and welcomed every time. Even though other food places surround it, I’ve never been to them. It’s always Dolsot House for me. Though my sister lives in another state, we stop by Dolsot House to eat when she visits. The head server always remembers her and asks about her life.

From 2012 to 2021, this restaurant has held strong for me. I have brought friends and family, and they have all felt welcomed and found something they enjoyed.

Highlights:

Perfect for families, friends, groups, dates, or eating alone.

Day and early afternoon are the best times to go to avoid waiting for tables.

The staff, both new and seasoned, are friendly.

Some things on the menu are customizable to suit dietary needs.

B.Y.O.B.

The food is always delicious.

I have been a customer for nine years and will continue to be one.

If you’re looking for a great place to eat Korean B.B.Q. in the Cherry Hill area, Dolsot House has you covered.