A Journey Through Banchan: The Essential Side Dishes of Korean Cuisine

At Namoo Korean BBQ, every table begins with more than just meat—it begins with banchan.

These small, flavorful side dishes may be modest in size, but they are full of history, balance, and intention. For many, they are the soul of the Korean dining experience.

In this post, we’re taking you on a journey through the world of banchan—what they are, why they matter, and how they bring every Namoo meal to life.

🍽️ What Is Banchan?

Banchan (반찬) refers to the assortment of small side dishes served with every Korean meal. They’re meant to be shared, and they're always refillable—because in Korean hospitality, generosity is never portioned.

At Namoo, we carefully prepare each banchan dish in-house daily, using recipes passed down from our family kitchens.

🌶️ Core Banchan You’ll Find at Namoo

While the lineup may vary seasonally, here are some of the most beloved banchan dishes you’ll likely encounter at your table:

1. Kimchi (Fermented Napa Cabbage)

The heart of Korean cuisine. Our kimchi is aged and spiced in-house, delivering a punch of umami, heat, and tang.

2. Kongnamul (Seasoned Soybean Sprouts)

Light, nutty, and refreshing—seasoned with sesame oil and a touch of garlic.

3. Gamja Jorim (Braised Potatoes)

Tender potato cubes simmered in a sweet soy glaze, offering a savory-sweet contrast to grilled meats.

4. Oi Muchim (Spicy Cucumber Salad)

Crisp and cooling, this quick-pickled cucumber banchan is perfect for cleansing the palate.

5. Japchae (Glass Noodles with Vegetables)

Chewy sweet potato noodles stir-fried with vegetables and lightly seasoned. A fan favorite.

Each of these dishes adds contrast and harmony to your meal—spicy to cool, crunchy to soft, fermented to fresh.

🥢 Why Banchan Completes the Meal

Banchan isn’t an appetizer or a side—it’s a key part of the Korean BBQ rhythm. It enhances every bite of grilled meat, adding texture, flavor, and balance.

It also brings people together. Sharing banchan reflects the communal, open-hearted style of Korean dining—something we value deeply at Namoo.

🍃 Tradition Meets Namoo's Touch

Our banchan isn’t mass-produced or pre-packed. Each batch is handmade daily by our kitchen team, using the same methods and ingredients we grew up with.

It’s our way of sharing a piece of Korean tradition with you—one small dish at a time.

🍽️ Ready to Taste the Banchan Experience?

Come enjoy Korean BBQ the way it’s meant to be: shared, balanced, and built on tradition. Whether it’s your first time or your fiftieth, the banchan at Namoo Korean BBQ will make you feel right at home.

📅 Book your table today at: www.namookbbq.com

📞 Call to reserve: (310) 437-0291

📸 Get a closer look at our banchan on Instagram: @namookbbq