Lynnwood's BBQ Hideaway: Where Good Meats Meet Good Times at New Gangnam III

I found myself in Lynnwood last Saturday, a pleasant detour from my usual routine. I was actually in the area helping a friend pick up some furniture near Alderwood, which, after a morning of navigating the weekend crowds around the mall – and the energetic buzz emanating from Funtastic Playtorium nearby – had worked up a serious appetite.

My palate, ever in search of something substantial and comforting, gravitated towards New Gangnam BBQ III. Its promise of a relaxed Korean BBQ experience with tableside grills caught my eye, and the Google description, 'traditional meat dishes, sides & desserts,' sealed the deal. What I found was a place that delivers exactly what it promises, without fuss or pretense.

The atmosphere here is exactly what you want from a laid-back KBBQ spot: lively but not overwhelming, with the satisfying sizzle of grills providing the soundtrack. For a home cook who appreciates the nuances of good ingredients, the quality of the meats here is the standout. They offer an à la carte menu, but frankly, the Premium All-You-Can-Eat option, at around $54.99 per person, is where the real experience lies. It’s a commitment, yes, but the sheer variety and consistent quality make it more than worthwhile.

We dove into the Wagyu selection first. The Wagyu Outside Skirt (와규안창살) offers a beautiful balance of richness and a satisfying chew, while the Wagyu Beef Chunk Eye Roll (와규눈꽃살) melts on the tongue with that characteristic marbling. But it’s not just about the Wagyu. The NGB's Caveman Long-Cut Beef Short Ribs (뉴경남 뽈살) are marinated just right, tender and flavorful, demonstrating a command of traditional preparation. For those who appreciate pork, the Range Raised Pork Belly (자연산 돼지 삼겹살) is fantastic – thick-cut, crispy when grilled, and full of natural flavor.

Beyond the staples, New Gangnam BBQ III surprises with some less common but equally excellent options. The Grilled Oysters (굴구이), brought sizzling to the table, are plump and briny, a delightful interlude from the heavier meats. And if you're feeling adventurous, the Large Fresh Water Prawns (민물왕새우) grill up beautifully, offering a sweet, succulent bite. Each piece, whether beef, pork, or seafood, arrives well-portioned and consistently high quality, a testament to good sourcing and kitchen execution.

Of course, no KBBQ meal is complete without the banchan, and New Gangnam III’s array of small dishes – from kimchi to various pickled vegetables – are fresh and regularly replenished, providing the perfect counterpoint to the grilled meats. It’s this thoughtful attention to all elements of the meal, from the star cuts to the supporting cast of sides, that really makes a difference.

After such a hearty and satisfying meal, a quiet stroll through Heritage Park just a short drive away felt like the perfect antidote, watching the last of the afternoon light filter through the trees. New Gangnam BBQ III isn't trying to reinvent the wheel, and that's precisely its strength. It’s a dependable, comfortable spot that consistently delivers on the promise of good Korean BBQ. For quality meats, well-executed dishes, and a genuinely relaxed dining experience, it’s a place I’d happily return to – especially after another busy day of Lynnwood errands.