Planning a Korean barbecue meal with kids can feel tricky. You want them to have fun. You want them to eat. But what if the flavours are too strong? What if they don’t recognise anything on the table?
The good news is, Korean barbecue has plenty of dishes kids can enjoy. You just have to know where to start.
At Hanjip Korean Grill House, one of the most popular Korean BBQ spots in Singapore, families visit all the time. They know the secret is picking dishes that are simple, familiar, and fun to eat. Here’s your cheat sheet for ordering at your next meal.
Mild and Easy Meats
Bulgogi (Marinated Beef)
Bulgogi is a crowd-pleaser. Sweet, tender slices of beef grilled right at the table. The soy-based marinade gives it a flavour most kids love. It’s a little like teriyaki but softer and less sticky.
Grill it until it’s slightly caramelised. The crispy bits will win kids over fast.
Chicken Galbi
Marinated chicken without the heat. Chicken galbi is juicy, packed with flavour, and easy for kids to chew.
The sweet and savoury notes make it feel familiar. It’s like a barbecue chicken, but even better.
Samgyeopsal (Grilled Pork Belly)
Plain grilled pork belly is another good bet. It’s rich but not spicy. Let the kids dip their pieces in sesame oil with a little salt. Keep it simple.
For extra fun, show them how to wrap the pork in lettuce. It turns eating into a game.
Side Dishes Kids Will Love
Steamed White Rice
Sometimes the safest choice is the best. A warm bowl of plain rice gives kids a familiar base. It also balances out the stronger flavours from grilled meats.
Most Korean BBQ meals come with rice, but it never hurts to order extra.
Japchae (Sweet Potato Noodles)
Japchae is colourful, chewy, and slightly sweet. The glass noodles are slippery in a fun way, tossed with bits of spinach, carrot, and sometimes beef.
It’s a vegetable dish kids will actually finish.
Gyeran Jjim (Steamed Egg)
This is Korean comfort food at its best. Steamed egg arrives puffed up and jiggly, served steaming hot in a stone pot. It’s soft, fluffy, and melts in the mouth.
A perfect side for kids who might not be ready for strong barbecue flavours yet.
Mild Kimchi Fried Rice
If your child is adventurous, order a milder kimchi fried rice. Some places will adjust the spice if you ask.
The rice brings a little tang, a little salt, and plenty of familiar textures.
Grilled Vegetables and Other Safe Bets
King Oyster Mushrooms
Grilled mushrooms turn tender and juicy. Their mild flavour makes them easy for kids to try. Cut them into small pieces and let the kids enjoy their first “grown-up” veggie.
No sauces needed. A sprinkle of salt is enough.
Sweet Buttered Corn
A sizzling dish of buttered corn usually comes with the barbecue set. Kids go wild for it.
It’s warm, sweet, creamy, and comforting. A small serving often turns into a big hit.
Lettuce Wraps (Ssam)
Make eating fun by showing kids how to wrap their meat in fresh lettuce leaves.
They can build their own wraps with meat, rice, and maybe even a mushroom slice. It’s messy and interactive.
Desserts to Celebrate
Bingsu (Korean Shaved Ice)
Bingsu looks impressive when it hits the table. A giant mound of fluffy ice, drizzled with sweet milk, topped with fruits or cookies.
Light, sweet, and shareable. It’s the perfect ending after a smoky feast.
Hotteok (Stuffed Sweet Pancakes)
Hotteok is a warm pancake filled with a brown sugar mixture. Biting into one releases a molten centre of sweetness.
Kids can’t get enough. Neither can adults, honestly.
Simple Ice Cream
Sometimes, the classic choice wins. A scoop of vanilla or strawberry ice cream is a safe and happy ending.
Especially if bingsu feels too big after a heavy meal.
Smart Tips for Korean Barbecue with Kids
- Start with mild meats like bulgogi and chicken galbi.
- Have rice and simple sides ready to soften stronger flavours.
- Let kids get involved—wrapping their food keeps them entertained.
- Keep sauces mild or skip them altogether.
- Always check the table grill’s heat—little fingers wander.
- Bring a backup snack just in case.
Most Korean BBQ restaurants are happy to accommodate families. A few smart choices will turn the meal into an easygoing feast.
Common Questions from Parents
Is Korean BBQ too spicy for children?
It doesn’t have to be. Many dishes are mild or can be adjusted to suit young tastes.
Can kids help cook the food?
With supervision, yes. Flipping a few pieces of meat makes them feel part of the action.
What if my child doesn’t eat meat?
No problem. Japchae, rice, steamed egg, grilled mushrooms, and corn offer plenty of alternatives.
Should we bring our own snacks?
It’s a good idea. Sometimes kids need a safety net while trying new things.
How can I tell if a dish is too spicy?
Ask your server before ordering. They’ll know which marinades or sauces have extra heat.
Korean BBQ Is a Family Affair
Korean barbecue isn’t just a meal. It’s an experience. Kids get to watch food sizzle, smell the smoky air, and try new things at their own pace.
Choosing the right dishes makes all the difference. Stick with familiar flavours. Let them build their own wraps. Keep it fun, light, and easy.
At Hanjip Korean Grill House in Clarke Quay, we make it even easier for families to enjoy a great meal together. Every Saturday and Sunday, kids eat free during lunch*—and if you’re visiting on a weekday, we’ve got a $10++ kids menu available daily, with two tasty sets to choose from.
Need a little extra entertainment at the table? Just ask—we’ve got colouring sheets and kids’ toys ready to go.
With our welcoming atmosphere and thoughtful touches, it’s a place where everyone, young and old, can eat happily together.
Ready to dig in? Make a reservation now!
*Free kids meal is available with every paying adult.
