Gyu-Kaku Japanese BBQ: Upper West Side’s Ultimate Yakiniku & Happy Hour Destination

Gyu-Kaku Japanese BBQ Introduce

Gyu-Kaku Japanese BBQ, which charmingly translates to "Horn of the Bull," brings the exciting and interactive dining experience of traditional Japanese yakiniku to the heart of the Upper West Side. Located at

620 Amsterdam Ave, New York, NY 10024

, this popular restaurant is far more than a typical barbecue spot—it's a culinary destination where you become the chef. The essence of Gyu-Kaku is

Shared Plates

and community, with a personal smokeless grill built into every table, inviting friends, families, and dates to gather, converse, and cook together.

This establishment, categorized as a

Yakiniku restaurant

Barbecue restaurant

, and

Japanese restaurant

, specializes in premium cuts of beef, pork, poultry, and seafood, all marinated in signature sauces. The atmosphere is vibrant—a blend of

Casual

Cozy

, and

Trendy

—making it an ideal choice for both a relaxed weeknight meal and a lively weekend outing. It is consistently

Popular for

both

Lunch

and

Dinner

, and its extensive offerings cater to diverse tastes and needs, from flavorful bowls for a quick solo meal to an immersive grilling experience for a large group. New Yorkers seeking a fun, flavorful, and unique dining experience will find Gyu-Kaku a top-tier choice.

The focus on the in-house grilling experience is what sets Gyu-Kaku apart, creating an energetic ambiance where the sounds of sizzling meat and laughter are the background music. However, the restaurant is also highly accommodating, offering a robust menu of ready-to-eat items for those opting for takeout or delivery, ensuring that the Gyu-Kaku flavor can be enjoyed anytime, anywhere.

Location and Accessibility

Gyu-Kaku Japanese BBQ is conveniently situated at

620 Amsterdam Ave, New York, NY 10024

, placing it squarely in a bustling, high-traffic area of the Upper West Side. Its proximity to major transit lines and the concentration of residential buildings makes it a natural gathering point for the community.

The restaurant is built with comprehensive accessibility in mind, ensuring that all patrons can comfortably enjoy the dining experience. Key accessibility features include a

Wheelchair accessible entrance

Wheelchair accessible restroom

, and dedicated

Wheelchair accessible seating

. For those driving, the location offers the convenience of both

Free street parking

and

Paid street parking

options nearby. This attention to detail reflects a commitment to welcoming everyone in the vibrant New York crowd, which notably includes both

Groups

and

Tourists

Services Offered

Gyu-Kaku provides a dynamic range of services, effectively balancing the traditional, immersive dining experience with the modern demands of New York life. These services ensure flexibility and convenience for all patrons.

Dine-in Table Service: The signature offering, featuring personal, smokeless grills at every table for the interactive yakiniku experience, complete with full
Table service
.
Delivery and No-Contact Delivery: Offers the full
Gyu-Bowls To-Go
and
Gyu-Ramen To-Go
menu for convenient, ready-to-eat meals delivered directly to your home or office, including a
No-contact delivery
option.
Takeout: Allows customers to pick up pre-cooked meals, appetizers, and even
Gyu-Combo To-Go
meals, which are designed to bring the flavor of yakiniku without the grilling.
Full Bar Service: Serves
Alcohol
,
Beer
,
Cocktails
,
Hard liquor
, and
Wine
to complement the savory grilled meats.
Reservations:
Accepts reservations
and, given its popularity,
Dinner reservations are recommended
to secure a table for the unique grilling experience.

Features / Highlights

What makes Gyu-Kaku a standout in the New York dining scene are its unique features that blend entertainment, flavor, and value.

Interactive Yakiniku Dining: The primary highlight is the self-grilling experience using smokeless roasters built into every table. This fun, hands-on process creates a lively atmosphere perfect for
Groups
and fosters conversation.
Award-Winning Happy Hour: Known for its fantastic
Happy hour drinks
and
Happy hour food
specials, offering an affordable way for New Yorkers to enjoy premium cuts, appetizers, and drinks during designated hours.
Premium Meats and Marinades: The menu features high-quality, 21-day aged beef cuts like
Harami Skirt Steak in Miso Marinade
and
Prime Kalbi Short Rib in Sweet Soy Marinade
, representing the highest standard of Japanese barbecue.
Late-Night and Full-Day Dining: The restaurant serves
Late-night food
, extending its service well into the evening, and is
Popular for
both
Lunch
and
Dinner
, offering flexible dining hours.
Family-Friendly Amenities: Gyu-Kaku is
Good for kids
and provides
High chairs
and a dedicated
Kids' menu
, making it an accessible and enjoyable dining choice for families.
Diverse Ready-to-Eat Menu: The availability of pre-cooked items like the
Gyu-Bowls To-Go
(e.g.,
Beef Sukiyaki Fried Rice Bowl
,
Crunchy Garlic Shrimp Noodles
) ensures that those looking for a
Quick bite
or
Comfort food
can still enjoy Gyu-Kaku flavors without the grill.

Contact Information

To reserve a table for a lively yakiniku session or to inquire about takeout options, you can reach Gyu-Kaku Japanese BBQ using the following information:

Address: 620 Amsterdam Ave, New York, NY 10024

Phone: (646) 850-2989

Mobile Phone: +1 646-850-2989

What is worth choosing

The ultimate choice at Gyu-Kaku Japanese BBQ is the full yakiniku dining experience. It's an interactive adventure perfect for sharing with

Groups

, making it an unforgettable date night or celebration spot. The star of the show is the selection of marinated, ready-to-grill meats. You must try the

Harami Skirt Steak in Miso Marinade

, often cited as their best-selling cut, and the tender, buttery

Prime Kalbi Short Rib

in sweet soy. The experience is enhanced by the wide range of sides and small plates, including

Japanese Fried Chicken Karaage

, the flavorful

Takoyaki

(fried octopus balls), and the ever-popular

Fried Cheese Wontons

For those seeking incredible value, visiting during the dedicated

Happy hour food

and

Happy hour drinks

times is highly recommended. The specials offer a chance to sample premium meats and creative cocktails, wine, and Japanese sake at a more accessible price point. This is a brilliant way for savvy New Yorkers to enjoy a top-tier dining experience without

breaking the bank

Even when ordering takeout or delivery, Gyu-Kaku provides exceptional value and flavor. The

Gyu-Bowls To-Go

are satisfying, substantial meals perfect for lunch, with options like the savory

Beef Sukiyaki Fried Rice Bowl

or the trendy, plant-based

Beyond Beef Rice Bowl

. The

Gyu-Ramen To-Go

, including the rich

Tonkotsu Ramen

and the spicy options, offers perfect comfort food for a chilly New York evening.

No visit to Gyu-Kaku is complete without the iconic dessert:

S'Mores

. It's the perfect sweet finish, where you grill marshmallows at your table to golden perfection, then sandwich them with milk chocolate between graham crackers. This hands-on dessert perfectly encapsulates the fun and engaging spirit of the Gyu-Kaku experience. The restaurant is a superb choice for those who value an authentic and highly flavorful Japanese dining experience delivered with great service and a lively, social atmosphere.

Gyu-Kaku Japanese BBQ Menu

Gyu-Combo To-Go
Gyu-Combo 2 $16.00
The closest you can get to the Gyu-Kaku yakiniku experience without grilling the meat yourself. Customize your meal! Select two proteins as single or double portions, two marinades, and rice portion. Includes Miso Soup, White Rice, and a Set Salad.
Gyu-Combo 3 $20.00
The closest you can get to the Gyu-Kaku yakiniku experience without grilling the meat yourself. Customize your meal! Select three proteins as single or double portions, three marinades, and rice portion. Includes Miso Soup, White Rice, and a Set Salad.

Gyu-Bowls To-Go
Crunchy Garlic Shrimp Noodles (GAH) $16.00
Crunchy Garlic Shrimp atop thick Japanese noodles stir-fried with sliced garlic, crunchy chili garlic oil, butter, and soy sauce. Topped with diced red bell peppers, chopped green onions, and sesame seeds. Mildly spicy.
Garlic Shoyu Chicken Noodles (GAH) $15.00
Thick Japanese noodles stir-fried with chicken, sliced garlic, butter, and soy sauce. Topped with diced red bell peppers, chopped green onions, and sesame seeds.
Beef Sukiyaki Fried Rice Bowl (GAH) $15.00
Our signature thin-sliced Sukiyaki-marinated beef stir-fried with white rice, egg yolk, mushrooms, and sliced onions. Topped with diced red bell peppers, chopped green onions, and sesame seeds.
Beyond Beef Rice Bowl (GAH) $15.00
Our beloved Sukiyaki Bibimbap goes BEYOND. 100% plant-based Beyond Beef is marinated in our secret Sukiyaki sauce and stir fried with mushrooms, diced red bell peppers, and sliced white onions. Served over rice. Topped with chopped green onions and sesame seeds. Also contains butter and sesame oil. Picture for visualization purposes only. Beyond Bibimbap will arrive pre-mixed.
Fried Chicken Karaage Rice Bowl (GAH) $15.00
Japanese Fried Chicken Karaage on a bed of white rice and shredded cabbage. Topped with Japanese Chili Mayo and chopped green onions.
Garlic Fried Rice Bowl (GAH) $12.50
Our Garlic Fried Rice features white rice stir-fried with egg yolk, sliced onions, sliced garlic. Seasoned with a combination of our Shio Soy Sauce, butter, sesame oil, and black pepper. Topped with chopped green onions and fried garlic chips.
Roast Beef Rice Bowl (GAH) $16.00
Premium roast beef on a bed of mixed greens and steamed rice. Topped with white and green onions, Signature soy-based barbecue sauce, and kuki wasabi.
Spicy Beef Rice Bowl (GAH) $15.00
Beef rib meat and rice dowsed in our signature Umakara Sauce and mixed with an assortment of bell pepper, shishito pepper, and corn, then garnished with sesame, green onions, and chili flakes.
Umakara Beef Rice Bowl (GAH) $15.00
Thin-sliced Yakishabu beef marinated in our sweet & spicy Umakara sauce with sliced onions on a bed of white rice and shredded cabbage. Topped with chopped green onions and sesame seeds.

Gyu-Ramen To-Go
Spicy Beef Ramen (GAH) $14.00
Gyu-Kaku original recipe: Japanese BBQ meets Ramen! Rich kalbi beef soup and medium thickness ramen noodles topped with thin-sliced beef, boiled egg, green onions, spinach, daikon radish, and sesame seeds. Ramen noodles and hot soup are packaged separately to maintain their maximum deliciousness. Please reheat soup in the microwave (if necessary) and pour over noodles.
Tonkotsu Ramen (GAH) $14.00
Our Tonkotsu pork bone ramen comes with chunky, fatty braised pork belly Kakuni chashu and is topped with hard-boiled egg, chopped green onions, diced red bell peppers, and sesame seeds. Ramen noodles and hot soup are packaged separately to maintain their maximum deliciousness. Please reheat soup in the microwave (if necessary) and pour over noodles.
Goma Negi Shio Ramen (GAH) $14.00
Beef and shio-based soup with medium-thick ramen noodles and thick braised pork belly Kakuni chashu. Toppings also include boiled egg, green onion, and sesame seeds. Ramen noodles and hot soup are packaged separately to maintain their maximum deliciousness. Please reheat soup in the microwave (if necessary) and pour over noodles.

Gyu For All!
Gyu-Family Meal For All $84.00
We have put together some of our fan favorites to create a well-balance meal that feeds four. Substitutions respectfully declined. Includes: 1x Gyu-Combo with 7 oz Yaki-shabu Beef in Miso, 1x Gyu-Combo with 7 oz Toro Beef in Sweet Soy Tare, 1x Beef Sukiyaki Fried Rice, 1x Garlic Shoyu Chicken Noodles, 1x Black Pepper Wings, 1x Fried Pork Gyoza, 1x Gyu-Kaku Salad, 1x Edamame, and 1x Napa Kimchi
MEGA Beef Sukiyaki Fried Rice $30.95
A TRIPLE SERVING of our Crowd Favorite: Sukiyaki Fried Rice with Beef. Serves 3-5 people. Our signature thin-sliced Sukiyaki-marinated beef stir-fried with white rice, egg yolk, mushrooms, and sliced onions. Topped with diced red bell peppers, chopped green Onions, and sesame seeds.
MEGA Garlic Shoyu Chicken Noodles $30.95
A TRIPLE SERVING of our Crowd Favorite: Mega Garlic Noodles with Chicken. Serves 3-5 people. Thick Japanese noodles stir-fried with chicken, sliced garlic, butter, and soy sauce. Topped with diced red bell peppers, chopped green onions, and sesame seeds.

Appetizers To-Go
Fried Pork Gyoza Dumpling $8.45
Five (5) Fried Pork Gyoza Dumplings with Ponzu citrus soy dipping sauce
Japanese Fried Chicken $8.45
Our secret-marinated Japanese Fried Chicken Karaage. Served with Japanese Chili Mayo and a wedge of lemon.
Black Pepper Wings $10.45
Dangerously addictive Nagoya-style Tebasaki chicken wings! Five (5) fresh-fried wings tossed in a sweet soy and black pepper sauce.
Miso Chili Wings $11.00
Five (5) fried chicken wings coated in our sweet & spicy Miso Chili sauce.
Vegetable Spring Rolls $8.95
Four (4) Fried Vegetable Spring Rolls with Sweet Chili Dipping Sauce on the side.
Fried Cheese Wontons $7.45
Crispy fried wontons filled with cream cheese and green onions. Served with sweet chili sauce.
Takoyaki $8.95
Fried Octopus Balls! A street food classic straight from Osaka. Six fried octopus fritters drizzled with Takoyaki sauce and Japanese mayo. Topped with crushed bonito flakes and green onions.

Salads and Veggies To-Go
Edamame $6.00
Steamed Japanese soybeans. Lightly salted.
Gyu-Kaku Salad $9.95
Mixed greens, sliced cucumber, cherry tomatoes, and diced red bell pepper. Topped with a boiled egg (sliced), shredded daikon radish, and shredded cabbage. Served with Gyu-Kaku Dressing on the side.
Yuzu Shishito Peppers $8.95
Fried shishito chili peppers in our Japanese yuzu citrus sauce. Almost always mild.
Napa Kimchi $7.00
Spicy, pickled Napa cabbage kimchi

Sides To-Go
Miso Soup $4.45
A comforting cup of our classic miso soup with seaweed, tofu, and chopped green onions.
White Rice - Regular $4.50
8 oz of Japanese short-grain white rice
White Rice - Large $6.00
12 oz of Japanese short-grain white rice
White Rice - Extra Large $7.50
12 oz of Japanese short-grain white rice
Brown Rice $5.00

Dessert To-Go
S'Mores Milk Chocolate $4.00
Two s'mores pre-softened, wrapped-up, and ready to eat. Graham crackers, marshmallows, and milk chocolate.

Drinks To-Go
Coke Can $1.95
12 oz. Can of Coke
Diet Coke Can $1.95
12 oz. Can of Diet Coke
Sprite Can $1.95
12 oz. Can of Sprite
Red Bull Energy Drink $5.00
Red Bull Sugar Free $5.00
Red Bull Yellow Edition $5.00

Extra Sauces To-Go
Sweet Soy Sauce Bottle (12 Oz) $7.50
Enjoy our original Sweet Soy Sauce at home! Use it on your delivery/takeout order or bring a Japanese flair to your next backyard BBQ! Soy sauce, pear juice, and ginger are three of the secret ingredient that we can share with you. Only available at Gyu-Kaku. Gluten Free
Hot & Spicy Sauce Bottle (12 Oz) $7.50
Enjoy our original Hot & Spicy Sauce at home! Use it on your delivery/takeout order or bring a Japanese flair to your next backyard BBQ! Our mildly spicy Japanese BBQ dipping sauce. Only available at Gyu-Kaku. Gluten Free
Sesame Miso Dressing Bottle (12 Oz) $7.50
Enjoy our original Sesame Miso Dressing at home! Use it on your delivery/takeout order or bring a Japanese flair to your salad and veggies! Only available at Gyu-Kaku. Gluten Free
Takeout Sauces $0.00

Gyu-Kaku Gear To-Go
Beef Cuts Cow Map T-Shirt $25.00
Never forget which part of the cow your Gyu-Kaku beef comes from with this t-shirt! Only available in black.
Irasshaimase! T-Shirt $25.00
Irasshaimase! is the greeting that all guests hear when they enter Gyu-Kaku. It means "Welcome!" and it also means that you are about to enjoy some delicious Japanese BBQ! Only available in black.
Yakiniku T-Shirt $25.00

Gyu-Kaku Japanese BBQ Details

Service options
No-contact delivery
Delivery
Takeout
Dine-in

Highlights
Fast service
Serves local specialty

Popular for
Lunch
Dinner

Accessibility
Wheelchair accessible entrance
Wheelchair accessible restroom
Wheelchair accessible seating

Offerings
Alcohol
Beer
Cocktails
Comfort food
Happy hour drinks
Happy hour food
Hard liquor
Late-night food
Small plates
Wine

Dining options
Lunch
Dinner
Dessert
Seating
Table service

Amenities
Restroom
Wi-Fi
Wi-Fi

Atmosphere
Casual
Cozy
Trendy

Crowd
Groups
Tourists

Planning
Dinner reservations recommended
Accepts reservations

Payments
Credit cards
Debit cards
NFC mobile payments
Credit cards

Children
Good for kids
High chairs
Kids' menu

Parking
Free street parking
Paid street parking
Parking

Gyu-Kaku Japanese BBQ Photos

Gyu-Kaku Japanese BBQ Location

Gyu-Kaku Japanese BBQ

New York New York County New York Amsterdam Avenue

620 Amsterdam Ave, New York, NY 10024, USA

Gyu-Kaku Japanese BBQ Reviews

An average rating of ★4.2 from 565 user reviews.

grillserverhappy hours’morespartyroachtipthe menutunakorean bbq

★ 5★ 4★ 3★ 2★ 1

7/27/25Went here for restaurant week with friends and we did the $30 lunch special. Place was calm and not crowded when we went around 2pm. I love KBBQ so I was excited to try this place. I had set B and the Japanese chicken karaage was very tasty! Would definitely go here again
August 24 · Janiqua Morris
Honestly this place is a hit and miss when you order for delivery or pick up. I was so disappointed when I found paper in my miso soup. Looks like a piece from a ripped package of some type of miso package or something. Now I have to throw it away and it makes me wonder. How could that mistake even happen
May 11 · Love X Jun
Me & my boyfriend both love Korean Han woo & Japanese Wagyu. We tried many BBQ restaurants in Ktown as well as east village (Japanese restaurants near cooper square) Of all wagyu restaurants we tried, this is by far the worst when it comes to quality of meat as well as service(manager). We ordered A5 Wagyu which is $59 for 6 pieces. Not only some cuts were undesirable chunky tough end pieces, entire plate was completely frozen! They served A5 Wagyu $10 per bite frozen! Not only they were dry, they were tough as well. It was worse than cheap steak from your local supermarket. Kobe style kalbi short rib was better than A5 Wagyu🤣. To top it off, female manager was really cold & rude by being super passive aggressive. My boyfriend was trying to make small talk, but she was very snobby & rude. They may do okay serving some customers who do no know much about Wagyu, but with that kind of attitude & service with mediocre food, it’s not going to last long.
August 09 · esther paek
This place is a mix of good and bad in many different categories. The food was not that good. I got the pork Ramen and it was not that good. The eggs in the soup tasted dry as he'll but everything else was good. The service was great! Our server Chelsea was very nice and accommodating. The atmosphere was very nice, Quiet. Nice furniture. There were barley any people. I get why. I would not come to this place again.
September 07 · Noah Shacket
Best part of bbq, it goes so well with a mug of Kirin , kimchi 😍 We enjoyed our date night.Vinny (manager) had been accommodating and got us a table quickly.Brenda was quick to get our drinks and put our orders on the table!
February 22 · Joan Sydiongco