ARI Korean BBQ & The Cakeshop

Africancrab 3 months ago

I dined here a while back, so this review is long overdue. This is easily one of the nicer Korean BBQ restaurants in the area, conveniently located at the corner of State Bridge Road and Medlock Bridge Road. One thing to know before visiting: this isn't really a place I'd recommend for dining alone. The setup is designed for sharing and socializing, with Korean tabletop grilling traditionally centered around family and group dining. In many ways, it reminded me of the communal experience of Teppanyaki, where the meal is as much about the company as the food. That said, the staff was welcoming and accommodated me with a table for one. Service was prompt, the ambiance was inviting, and the overall experience was enjoyable. I opted for the salmon along with a hot sake, and both made for a memorable meal. While I enjoyed my solo visit, I can definitely see this place shining as a group dining destination. Next time, I'll be returning with friends to experience it the way it was meant to be enjoyed.

Farhana Haque 4 months ago

Was visiting from LA and was looking for a halal Korean BBQ spot, and this place truly went above and beyond. We had a server named JJ who was amazing. He helped us so much with choosing what to order, was incredibly accommodating, and explained everything really well. I would definitely recommend this spot for both the atmosphere and the food. It almost felt like a private dining experience, and everything we tried was phenomenal.Was visiting from LA and was looking for a halal Korean BBQ spot, and this place truly went above and beyond. We had a server named JJ who was amazing. He helped us so much with choosing what to order, was incredibly accommodating, and explained everything really well. I would definitely recommend this spot for both the atmosphere and the food. It almost felt like a private dining experience, and everything we tried was phenomenal.

Saamiya Gill 6 months ago

I’m visiting from New York and my sister insisted on bringing me here before my flight home. It did not disappoint! The food was delicious, especially the brisket and spicy chicken bulgogi. Our server/cook’s name was JJ and he was so kind and helpful and he kept us laughing and engaged throughout the whole meal! He was also very attentive and fast with every thing we needed or asked for! I highly recommend this spot and will definitely be visiting again next time!

Ghulam Fatima 9 months ago

I had my birthday dinner at ARI and it was my first time trying Korean bbq. I’m absolutely blown and amazed by the experience. They served a variety of palate cleansers (?) like kimchi, salads, potato wedges etc. we ordered the wagyu and chicken bulgogi, garlic shrimp and wagyu brisket for our mains and cheesy fried rice, tater tots, chicken katsu and chicken wings for the sides. Literally everything was amazing, flavorful and well-made. Special shoutout to our server who was super polite and knew what he was doing. One thing I was really impressed with was how organized everything was. I’m Muslim and only consume halal meats so I was worried about contamination with the pork dishes but our meats were prepared on our table with dedicated tongs and shears so there was minimal risk of contamination with pork which made our experience extremely satisfactory. I really think the experience was worth the money. Keep it up! They also gave us complementary cake slice even though we didn’t tell that it was my birthday but it made my experience even more special. 🥰

Svetlana Chapman a year ago

Ari is such a great Korean restaurant in a very convenient location - the crossind of Medlock Bridge and State Bridge Rds in the plaza with coffe houses, cinema and other restaurants! The atmosphere is cozy and welcoming - perfect for a family dinner. Their new menu offers so many delicious options, and everything tastes super fresh and authentic. I love that they cook the meat right on the burners at your table - it’s such a fun and unique experience! I also adore all the little appetizers that come with the meal, especially the marinated radish and kimchi. The vegie pancakes are great too! The staff are friendly and make you feel right at home. Definitely a spot I’ll be coming back to!