Food for An Empire

Accompanied by the resurrection of Korean drama in the Philippines is the rise Korean barbecue.

A misconception about Korean BBQ is that it’s called “Korean barbecue” because of what you cook, like some special meat is used. However, it has a lot more to do with the manner of cooking. The word “barbecue” gives the not so subtle clue that grilling is involved. But what makes it a Korean-type barbecue is that the meat is cooked on a grill at the middle of the table, with everyone gathered around cooking and eating at the same time.

Personally, I find the concept rather sweet because I’m a firm believer of the saying that food can bring people together. That is why eating as a family is so important. That’s why hanging out with friends often involves eating out or ordering out. When we eat with the people we care about, a “pause” button is pressed. For a while, issues are forgotten and are to be tackled after dessert. Korean barbecue restaurants take this bonding experience up a notch by literally adding cooking to the table.

We are at our happiest when our stomachs are full. Now, imagine mixing that happiness with the comfort of seeing loved ones. Imagine in between the exchange of stories, the sizzle of newly placed raw meat on the grill or the crunch of lettuce being folded can be heard. Imagine that as you savor the hearty, zesty, and spicy flavors in your mouth, laughter is heard all around. Stories are exchanged across the table as food is passed around, as the thin strips of meat are flipped and seasoned on the table. The air is not just filled with the aroma of freshly cooked Samgyeopsal—pork belly meat. It also filled with a feeling of solace. Surrounded by the food and the right people, it feels as if nothing bad can ever happen.

Now, I understand why Korean barbecues are mostly offered in buffets. It is because it is meant to be shared. It saves the fading tradition of “eating together”.

The best thing about Korean barbecues is that it offers a moment of togetherness. For one hour or more, nothing exists but the food and people around the table.

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