Gen Korean BBQ House

- 1628 Hostetter Rd f, San Jose, CA 95131

For California residents seeking a lively, value-driven, and utterly satisfying Korean Barbecue experience, Gen Korean BBQ House in San Jose is an essential destination. Operating as a premier Korean barbecue restaurant, Gen is renowned across the Bay Area for its extensive All-You-Can-Eat (AYCE) model, making it a highly popular spot for groups, college students, and locals alike. The restaurant's trendy and casual atmosphere, complete with in-table grills, transforms a simple meal into an interactive and communal dining event. It's the perfect setting to celebrate, gather with friends, or simply indulge in an unlimited supply of freshly prepared, marinated, and unmarinated meats and traditional Korean side dishes ($Banchan$).

The core appeal of Gen Korean BBQ House is the incredible value and variety offered through its AYCE structure. Patrons can enjoy unlimited meats for a set price, with a Lunch Special available at approximately $21.99 per person and the Regular Dinner priced around $28.99 per person, though prices are subject to change. The menu boasts a boundless selection of proteins, ensuring that every craving is met. From the Raw Beef Selection, popular choices include the thinly sliced Chadol ($Beef Brisket$) and the flavorful Beef Bulgogi. For those who enjoy rich pork cuts, the Raw Pork Selection offers Samgyubsal ($Pork Belly$) and the highly sought-after Hangjunsal ($Pork Cheek$). A highlight for many is the inclusion of signature marinated meats like the Gen Signature Yangyeom Galbi ($Marinated Bone-in Short Rib$), which offers a unique balance of savory and sweet flavor notes. The menu also caters to those who prefer poultry and other flavors with options like Spicy Chicken, Honey Chicken, and specialty cuts such as Hawaiian Steak and Red Wine Samgyubsal.

While the restaurant is immensely popular and offers a great variety, prospective diners should be aware of the fast-paced, high-volume environment common in top AYCE spots, which can sometimes lead to inconsistent service. Some customer feedback has pointed to slow service, particularly during busy times, and occasional lapses in order accuracy. One customer noted that despite the restaurant not being busy, items were missed and there was a wait for re-ordered meat, suggesting service can be "slow" and that there may be a "wait" even when the restaurant highlights "Fast service." Diners are encouraged to manage their expectations regarding the pace of service and to utilize the available option to "Accepts reservations" to minimize potential wait times, which are noted to be common. Despite these challenges, the overall consensus often emphasizes the fantastic food quality-to-price ratio, with one patron noting a preference for the "honey soy beef belly" and the generous portions of popular cuts.

Gen Korean BBQ House is conveniently located at 1628 Hostetter Rd f, San Jose, CA 95131, USA, situated in a bustling part of San Jose that is easily accessible to locals and tourists exploring the Silicon Valley area. The restaurant has made significant efforts to ensure it is fully accessible to all members of the California community.

Accessibility features provided include:

• Wheelchair accessible entrance, facilitating smooth entry and exit.
• Wheelchair accessible parking lot, offering convenient parking spaces near the entrance.
• Wheelchair accessible restroom, ensuring comfort and dignity for all patrons.
• Wheelchair accessible seating, with spacious table arrangements to accommodate mobility devices.
• Parking is simplified with both a Free parking lot and Free street parking available, a significant benefit in the busy San Jose area.

The range of services at Gen Korean BBQ House is designed for flexibility and convenience, catering to both spur-of-the-moment visits and planned group events.

• Dining Options: Available for Lunch, Dinner, and Dessert, with comfortable Seating and full Table service provided.
• Reservations: The restaurant Accepts reservations, which are recommended for Lunch and highly recommended for Dinner due to the tendency to have "Usually a wait."
• Takeout and Delivery: For those who prefer to enjoy the flavor at home, Takeout and Delivery options are available, including special Gen Take Out Menu packages like the 4 Meats, 3 Sides, And Steamed Rice package ($28.00).
• Outdoor Seating: Offers Outdoor seating, allowing diners to enjoy their meal in the fresh California air.
• Late-Night Dining: Provides Late-night food, making it an excellent option for night owls, college students, and those finishing late shifts.
• Payment Methods: Accepts Credit cards, Debit cards, and NFC mobile payments for fast and easy transactions.
• Child-Friendly: Identified as Good for kids and offers High chairs, welcoming families to the KBBQ experience.

Gen Korean BBQ House distinguishes itself with key features that elevate the traditional Korean dining model into a fun, modern experience.

• All-You-Can-Eat Model: The defining feature, offering unlimited portions of over 30 menu items, including a massive selection of Raw Pork, Beef, and Chicken, providing exceptional value for the price point.
• Extensive Meat Selection: Includes high-demand marinated meats like Yangyeom Galbi and unique preparations like Red Wine Samgyubsal and Cajun Chicken, alongside traditional cuts.
• Full Bar and Drink Offerings: A dedicated Bar onsite offers Alcohol, Beer, Cocktails, Hard liquor, and Wine, complemented by Happy hour drinks, ensuring a complete social experience.
• Korean Side Dishes ($Banchan$): Provides a wide selection of traditional Korean side dishes, or $Banchan$, such as Kimchi, Potato Salad, and Radish Paper, which are traditionally unlimited with the AYCE meal.
• Trendy and Social Atmosphere: The restaurant's Casual and Trendy vibe attracts a vibrant crowd, including College students and Groups, making it a dynamic social hub for an engaging dining experience.
• Specialty Sauces: A variety of house sauces are available to enhance the meat's flavor, including Green Tea Salt, Chadol Sauce, and K-Spicy Sauce, allowing for personalized seasoning.

To make a reservation, inquire about current wait times, or place a takeout order, please use the following contact details.

• Address: 1628 Hostetter Rd f, San Jose, CA 95131, USA
• Phone: (408) 477-2773
• Mobile Phone: +1 408-477-2773

Choosing Gen Korean BBQ House is worth it for California residents who prioritize variety, value, and a social, interactive dining experience. No other dining model allows you to sample over 30 items for one flat fee, and the sheer volume of choices—from the Gen Steak to Spicy Pork Bulgogi—ensures you can always try something new. The opportunity to grill your own food at the table adds a fun, communal element that makes it perfect for celebrations and group hangouts. Despite the occasional service issues reported, the atmosphere remains energetic and the food selection is undeniably generous, making it a great choice for those with a big appetite or those wanting to introduce friends to the excitement of KBBQ.

The availability of an extensive drink menu, including soju and cocktails, and its designation as a spot for Late-night food, further solidify its status as a social epicenter in San Jose. If you plan ahead and make a reservation, particularly during peak hours, you can mitigate the reported issues and fully enjoy the feast. For a rewarding and memorable All-You-Can-Eat Korean BBQ experience that is both affordable and high in variety, Gen Korean BBQ House on Hostetter Road is a reliable and popular choice for the discerning California local.

Gen Korean BBQ House

1628 Hostetter Rd f, San Jose, CA 95131, USA