It is always with genuine pleasure that I sit down around a Korean barbecue, an experience that is at once indulgent, social, and deeply convivial. In Montreal, Daldongnae Korean BBQ has established itself as a well-known address among lovers of authentic Korean cuisine. With two locations in Montreal and several others across Ontario, the restaurant offers a faithful interpretation of Korean BBQ, centered on sharing and product quality.

The name Daldongnae, which literally means “moon village,” refers to former working-class neighborhoods built on the hills of Seoul after the war. These villages were gathering places where residents would meet in the evening to share a simple meal, often around a barbecue. This historical and human dimension is clearly reflected in the restaurant’s concept. The interior layout favors semi-enclosed mini booths, creating an intimate atmosphere that allows guests to feel removed from neighboring tables while still enjoying a lively and welcoming ambiance.

At the heart of the Daldongnae experience is the table-side Korean barbecue. The menu offers a carefully curated selection of meats: pork, beef, and chicken, including more premium options such as wagyu beef. Unlike many Korean BBQ restaurants in Montreal, there is no all-you-can-eat formula here. This deliberate choice allows the focus to remain on the quality and freshness of the meats, rather than on quantity.

In addition, the menu features a few iconic Korean dishes, such as bibimbap, ideal for rounding out the meal or complementing the barbecue experience.

My experience at Daldongnae

During my visit, we were a group of four people. I naturally opted for the pork neck, accompanied by a bowl of grilled vegetables that we shared. As soon as the plates arrived, the quality of the ingredients was immediately apparent: well-marbled meat with a fresh appearance, which responded perfectly to the grill’s heat.

The barbecue is served with a generous selection of banchans, the traditional Korean side dishes that add depth and balance to the meal. Eggs, cheese-gratinated corn, marinated vegetables, and kimchi warmed directly around the grill complete the experience, bringing layers of flavor and texture throughout the meal.

In terms of budget, I spent around $40 per person for one meat, with the vegetables shared among the table. It is worth noting that a minimum of two meats per table is required.