Hong BBQ & Hot Pot

Reviews

• ★★★★½ Pork Galbi Beef Bulgogi Visited Oct 25, 2024

  Hongs BBQ is Pretty Good, But Seems To Lack Sides.

  Before arriving in Tampa, I came across several online recommendations for Hong BBQ and Hot Pot, a growing chain that’s been expanding into the Bradenton and Sarasota areas. Then the person I was staying with mentioned that they had heard locals recommend it. Intrigued, we made a short trip from my hotel to North Tampa to give it a try.
  
  The restaurant’s decor was bright and colorful, featuring Asian-inspired architecture, furnishings, statues, and lattices that created a vibrant and inviting atmosphere.
  
  The all-you-can-eat (AYCE) options for KBBQ and hot pot were priced at $30 each, with an additional $5 for the option to have both—though everyone at the table has to choose the same option. The restaurant’s late hours make it a great choice for evening diners looking to work up an appetite before a big meal.
  
  We chose the AYCE KBBQ and were quickly provided with plates, bowls, and utensils as our first order of meats were taken. Alongside the meats, we ordered enoki mushrooms, steamed rice, and lettuce wraps.
  
  The meats, especially the beef bulgogi, were flavorful and well-seasoned, not needing any additional seasoning or sauces from the bar. I tried the beef bulgogi, pork belly, and short ribs (galbi) during the course of the meal. My only critique would be the lack of traditional banchan side dishes like pickled radish, kimchi cucumbers, and other accompaniments, which weren’t listed on the menu or available at the sauce bar.
  
  The sauce bar, however, did offer crushed garlic, garlic cloves, kimchi, and seaweed salad, as well as a variety of sauces and oils. The meal also included a few fresh fruit, salad, and dessert options.
  
  We were able to reorder meats several times, and while our drinks went empty briefly, the service throughout the meal was decent.
  
  Overall, the meal was delicious. While some high-end meat options were missing, but the inclusion of galbi and NY strip steak make the menu fairly complete for the lower tier pricing.
  
  This was one of the first meals of my trip, and in my excitement, I forgot to take photos of the meats and menu. Nonetheless, I’m glad we made the visit. For anyone in the area, Hong BBQ and Hot Pot is worth checking out, especially if you’re craving a late-night feast with plenty of options.

  — Paul