The History: Delicious Beginnings
Korean BBQ dates back over 2,000 years, with 삼겹살 (sahm-gyup-sahl), a fatty pork cut, being a popular choice. This un-marinated meat is the basis for modern BBQ styles in the U.S. Today’s BBQ features a variety of meats, popular since the 1980s. Another early grilling method, 불고기 (bool-goh-gi), involves marinated, thinly sliced beef cooked in a flavorful sauce. Originating in a time when meat was rare, Korean BBQ was developed as a way to make the most of it.
Modern BBQ- Culture Today
With a wide variety of meat, veggies, and sauces to choose from, this choose-your-own-adventure style of eating, is hugely popular amongst people of many different backgrounds. In Korea, whether it is a group of students needing a late-night post-study snack or a couple of businessmen needing a hearty meal to refuel and banter, Korean barbeque has quickly taken over many by storm, even throughout the country today, bringing this unique experience to the Uptown area at MOA.
Korean Barbeque: What Is It?
Modern Korean BBQ is all about the experience, where dining and cooking come together. At MOA, guests gather around a tabletop grill, choosing from high-quality raw meats, including dry-aged beef options. While grilling is part of the fun, we take it up a notch by providing full service, with our staff handling the grilling to ensure you get the most out of your BBQ experience. It’s a unique, upscale twist on traditional Korean BBQ dining.
Meet the Founders
Sean Kim (Founder), Roy Seo (Executive Chef)
MOA: Birth and Connections
MOA was born from its sister restaurant, 929 Kitchen & Bar, in Columbia, SC. Building on 929’s foundation of high-quality Korean dishes with a modern twist, MOA takes it further by elevating the food, atmosphere, and service. MOA features a unique grilling method and offers a wine cellar with over 700 bottles. Enjoy the full experience while dining in our spacious 5,000 sq. ft. space or from our second-level mezzanine for stunning views.
Gallery
