Tong Sam Gyup Goo Yi

This Korean barbecue spot in Murray Hill is always packed. Inside, the bright room’s décor forgoes all frills to focus on regional specialties. Begin with the usual but very exquisite banchan-like pickled turnips, fermented bean paste soup, and specially aged house kimchi—funky, garlicky, and a total pleasure. Of course, what makes this place stand out is the tabletop grill, and you'll never go wrong with an order of beef short ribs marinated in a traditional Korean soy-based sauce, sided by romaine lettuce to build your own wraps. Fried rice with a variety of toppings is better when sizzled on the grill for a blend of crispy bits and tender rice.