Calling all Pork Heads! This K-BBQ is so good, it forgives all sins
qponx
2026-03-06
Discover Mabac, a hidden gem in Medan for authentic, non-halal Korean BBQ. This open-air spot might be no-frills, but the food is heavenly. Get ready for sizzling Marinated Samgyeopsal with a perfect char, super crispy Chicharron, and soul-warming Ramyeon. The flavors are straight from the streets of Korea, and with affordable prices and free side dish refills, it's a true pork lover's paradise that's well worth a visit for a genuine street-food experience.
My friend in Medan recommended this place, Mabac, to me, saying it's the best Korean BBQ in town[1]. I rushed over excitedly, and the result... anjay! This open-air food stall environment, with the heat mixed with the smell of charcoal, and flies everywhere trying to steal my meat[2], almost made me turn back right then and there!
But when that plate of Marinated Samgyeopsal[3] was served and started sizzling on the charcoal grill, my saliva betrayed me. The meat was grilled until it was charred and fragrant, with the fat rendered out. I dipped it in sauce, wrapped it in lettuce, and stuffed it in my mouth... Mantap! The flavor was absolutely incredible, just as good as what I've had on the streets of Korea[4]! No exaggeration, I'd fight the flies for three minutes just for a bite of this meat.
Their Crispy Chicharron[5] was also super amazing, so crunchy, and goes perfectly with beer. And that Ramyeon Shin[6] cooked in a clay pot, with char siu and an egg inside, is basically soul food for rainy days and late nights. The taste was so authentic!
Gotta say though, the meat portions aren't exactly huge[7], so big eaters might need to order a few more plates to Chill. Luckily, the prices are really affordable[8], so ordering a couple more plates won't hurt your wallet.
My Nongkrong Guide for You
Alright, all you pork lovers who want authentic Korean BBQ, it's up to you whether you want to go or not! As for me, I'll definitely be back to battle it out again for that samgyeopsal! 😂
- Important! This place is Non-Halal[9], so my Muslim friends, please take note. This is a paradise for pork lovers.
- For my girls who can't stand the heat and bugs, listen to me! Either come in the evening when it's cooler, or just ask the staff to grill the meat for you in the kitchen and bring it out[10]. It's just as delicious and you get to free up your hands!
- You'll definitely have to queue during meal times, but the table turnover is quite fast. Everyone's there to eat, so they get in and out quickly. Personally, I think it's worth the wait.
- The kimchi and sweet corn in the side dishes can be refilled for free[11], so don't be shy!
- Marinated Samgyeopsal[1] sizzles on charcoal, grilled till charred with rendered fat. Wrapped in lettuce, it's authentic K-street flavor[2]—worth fighting flies for.
- Crispy Chicharron[3] is super crunchy, perfect with beer, and the ultimate late-night soul food.
- Addictive kimchi and sweet corn sides come with free refills[4]. Unbeatable value.
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