Mapo BBQ

- 149-24 41st Ave, Flushing, NY 11355

Introduction / Overview

For New Yorkers seeking an authentic and high-quality Korean Barbecue experience outside of Manhattan’s Koreatown, Mapo BBQ in Flushing, Queens, stands as a local culinary landmark. Classified specifically as a Korean barbecue restaurant, this establishment is celebrated for its traditional approach to KBBQ, particularly its use of charcoal grilling, which imparts a distinct and deeply smoky flavor to the meats—a major highlight that sets it apart from many of its competitors.

Mapo BBQ offers a comprehensive menu that goes well beyond the grill. While the star attractions are the signature grilled items like Mapo Kalbi and Mapo Heukdweji Samgyupsal (black pork belly), the menu includes an extensive list of traditional Korean dishes. These include the comforting Jjigae (stews), like Kimchi Jjigae, hearty Table D'Hote options such as Bibimbab and Galbi Tang, and a range of Chef's Specials that feature spicy stir-fries and pancakes.

The restaurant's atmosphere is generally Casual, welcoming a diverse Crowd of Family-friendly groups, College students, and even Tourists venturing to the heart of Flushing for genuine Korean flavors. A distinguishing feature consistently praised by local patrons is the incredible generosity and quality of the complimentary banchan (side dishes), which are a central part of the Korean dining tradition. Reviewers often note the abundance of tasty side dishes, soup, and steamed eggs that accompany the main grilled meats, providing exceptional value and a full, traditional meal experience. Mapo BBQ is Popular for Lunch and Dinner, with a particularly attractive Lunch Special menu that runs every weekday.

Location and Accessibility

Mapo BBQ is conveniently situated in the vibrant Flushing neighborhood of Queens, a hub of authentic East Asian cuisine. The exact location is 149-24 41st Ave, Flushing, NY 11355, USA.

Getting There: Flushing is easily accessible via the MTA’s 7 subway line, which terminates at Flushing–Main Street. The restaurant's location, slightly off the main thoroughfare, provides a quieter atmosphere while remaining within easy reach of major public transit options and the bustling core of Flushing. The area is also well-served by numerous bus routes.

For Motorists: Parking in this part of Queens can be challenging, but Mapo BBQ is noted to have Free street parking available nearby, in addition to Paid street parking options. Patrons should anticipate the typical New York City street parking challenges, especially during peak dining hours.

Accessibility: The restaurant is fully committed to accommodating all guests, featuring a Wheelchair accessible entrance, Wheelchair accessible restroom, and Wheelchair accessible seating.

Services Offered

Mapo BBQ provides a flexible array of services tailored to the needs of the dynamic New York community, from quick weekday meals to relaxed group dinners.

• Dining Formats: Customers have the option for a full Dine-in experience with Seating and Table service, or quick and convenient Takeout.
• Lunch and Dinner: The restaurant caters to both midday and evening diners, with its popular Lunch Special running from 11:00 am to 3:00 pm on weekdays (excluding holidays), offering great value on staple dishes like Dwenjang Jjigae and Bibimbap for under $15.
• Beverage Service: Alcohol and Beer are offered, including popular Korean brands like Hite and OB, as well as domestic options like Budweiser and Coors Light. Patrons should be aware of the $15 corkage fee per bottle of liquor for those who wish to bring their own.
• Planning and Convenience: The restaurant Accepts reservations, which is highly recommended for large Groups or during peak Dinner hours, helping New Yorkers avoid wait times.
• Payment Flexibility: A modern and convenient payment system is in place, accepting Credit cards, Debit cards, and NFC mobile payments (such as Apple Pay or Google Pay).
• Late-Night Service: An appealing feature for many New Yorkers is the availability of Late-night food, making it a great option after a late shift or a sporting event like a Mets game.
• Family Services: The venue is Good for kids and provides High chairs for families dining with young children.

Features / Highlights

Mapo BBQ distinguishes itself in the highly competitive NYC dining scene with several key features that resonate with local food enthusiasts.

• Authentic Charcoal Grilling: Unlike many KBBQ spots that use gas, Mapo BBQ is known for its traditional charcoal grills, which caramelize the meat beautifully and infuse it with an irreplaceable smoky flavor—a significant draw for purists and a true reflection of the "Barbecue restaurant" type.
• Generous Banchan Selection: A major highlight consistently praised in reviews is the sheer quantity and quality of the complimentary side dishes. Patrons are delighted by the lot of tasty side dishes, soups, and steamed eggs that automatically accompany their main meat orders, offering a rich variety of flavors and a truly communal dining experience.
• Signature Grilled Meats: The core of the menu features specialty grilled items, most notably Mapo Kalbi (marinated beef short ribs) and the dark-marbled Mapo Heukdweji Samgyupsal (black pork belly), establishing the venue as a specialist in premium KBBQ cuts.
• Value-Driven Lunch Specials: The weekday Lunch Special menu is a major draw, providing a large selection of classic Korean dishes like Jjigae and Gukbap at highly competitive price points, offering exceptional value for the quality and portion size.
• Exceptional Service and Atmosphere: Despite being a bustling spot, the service is often highlighted as Fast service and great, with staff members described as really nice and helpful in guiding customers with their orders, contributing to a welcoming and Casual atmosphere. The grilling of the meat is often handled by the attentive staff at the table, enhancing the experience.
• Culinary Diversity: Beyond the barbecue, the menu features a wide range of authentic Korean classics—from Comfort food stews to Healthy options like Bibimbab—ensuring that there is something to satisfy every craving.

Contact Information

To place an order, make a reservation, or inquire about the current menu:

• Address: 149-24 41st Ave, Flushing, NY 11355, USA
• Phone (Primary): (718) 886-8292
• Phone (Mobile): +1 718-886-8292

What is Worth Choosing

Mapo BBQ is absolutely worth choosing for any New Yorker with a love for authentic Korean barbecue, especially those residing in or frequently visiting Queens. The primary reason to choose this spot over others is its dedication to the traditional grilling method and its exceptional value proposition.

The true value is found in the combination of the high-quality, charcoal-grilled meat (which many connoisseurs argue provides the best flavor) and the unparalleled side service. Customers consistently rave about the lot of meat provided and the abundance of tasty banchan—including soup and steamed eggs—that come standard with the main orders. This expansive side dish offering, often replenished upon request, transforms a simple meal into a full, multi-course Korean feast, which is rare in the competitive NYC market.

For students and weekday diners, the Lunch Special is a phenomenal deal, making traditional Korean comfort dishes accessible and affordable. For evening diners, the fact that they offer Late-night food and are located right in Flushing makes it an ideal spot for a post-event meal, such as after a Mets game. While service can occasionally feel rushed during closing, the overall consensus is that the friendly staff and the quality of the food—especially the signature Mapo Kalbi and the generous accompaniments—make Mapo BBQ an essential and top-tier destination for KBBQ in New York City.

Mapo BBQ

149-24 41st Ave, Flushing, NY 11355, USA