Welcome

Bari Bari

Bari Bari is a cozy and inviting spot famous for delicious Korean dishes and attentive service. Despite its intimate size, diners keep coming back for the delightful menu options and warm hospitality.

Restaurant locations

Bari Bari: Best Korean BBQ Restaurant in London | Authentic Korean dishes

If you’re craving a genuine taste of Korean food in the heart of London, Bari Bari at 24 White Church Lane, London E1 7QL, stands out as a must-visit spot. Nestled in the vibrant Whitechapel area, this restaurant has been delighting locals and tourists alike since 2014 with its rich flavors, warm hospitality, and a menu that captures the essence of Korea. Whether you’re a fan of sizzling Korean BBQ or comforting bowls of bibimbap, Bari Bari offers an experience that’s both delicious and memorable. Let’s dive into what makes this hidden gem a top choice for food lovers in the United Kingdom.

A Welcoming Spot in Whitechapel

Tucked away on White Church Lane, Bari Bari enjoys a prime location in East London’s bustling Tower Hamlets district. Just a short walk from Aldgate East station, a mere 0.16 miles away, it’s easy to reach whether you’re coming by tube or strolling through the city. Nearby stations like Aldgate and Whitechapel add to the convenience, making it a perfect stop for a quick lunch or a relaxed dinner after exploring London.

Step inside, and you’ll find a cozy, modern space that feels inviting yet unpretentious. The decor leans into simplicity with clean lines and a touch of elegance, creating an atmosphere that’s ideal for families, friends, or even solo diners. It’s the kind of place where you can unwind, savor your meal, and soak in the subtle charm of Korean culture right in the UK.

The Heart of Korean Cuisine

At Bari Bari, the menu is a celebration of Korean culinary traditions, crafted with fresh ingredients and a passion for authentic taste. The restaurant shines brightest with its Korean BBQ offerings, where the sizzle of meat on the grill fills the air with irresistible aromas. Picture yourself grilling tender pork belly, known as samgyeopsal, or juicy beef short ribs, called kalbi, right at your table. It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings people together.

For those who prefer something hearty and flavorful, the bibimbap steals the show. This signature dish features a colorful mix of rice, vegetables, and your choice of protein, like succulent steak, chicken, or salmon. Bari Bari’s unique twist, the Steak Bibimbap, has earned rave reviews for its bold flavors and perfect balance. Topped with a fried egg and a dollop of spicy gochujang sauce, it’s a comforting bowl that warms you from the inside out.

Don’t miss the topokki either. These cylindrical rice cakes swim in a sweet-spicy red sauce, with an optional layer of melted cheese that adds a creamy twist. And if you’re in the mood for something crispy, the Korean fried chicken, often dubbed KFC in a playful nod to its popularity, delivers a crunch that’s hard to resist. Paired with classic sides like kimchi made from napa cabbage or crunchy radish, every bite feels like a journey to Seoul.

What sets Bari Bari apart is its commitment to freshness and flexibility. Love spice? They’ll crank up the heat. Prefer it mild? They’ve got you covered. It’s this attention to detail that keeps diners coming back.

A Dining Experience for Everyone

Bari Bari isn’t just about the food; it’s about how it fits into your day. Open from 11:30 AM to 11:00 PM Monday through Saturday, it’s a versatile spot for any occasion. Pop in during the special lunch hours, running from 11:30 AM to 3:00 PM Monday to Friday, and you might snag a deal that’s easy on the wallet. Note that Sundays can be hit or miss, as the restaurant sometimes takes a well-deserved break.

Whether you’re dining in, grabbing takeout, or ordering delivery through apps like Deliveroo or Uber Eats, the team ensures your meal arrives just as it should. The restaurant welcomes bookings, offers free Wi-Fi, and accepts card payments, making it a practical choice in today’s fast-paced world. Families will appreciate the relaxed vibe, while groups can enjoy the shared joy of grilling together.

What Diners Say About Bari Bari

Ask around, and you’ll hear plenty of praise for Bari Bari. With an average rating hovering around 4.1 out of 5 on platforms like Tripadvisor and Yelp, it’s clear this place has won hearts. Regulars often highlight the quality of the dishes, pointing to the bibimbap and BBQ as standout stars. The staff’s friendly approach gets frequent nods too, adding a personal touch to every visit.

Of course, no place is perfect. Some mention that prices can feel a tad steep for the portion sizes, especially if you’re used to budget eats. During peak hours, the cozy space might feel a bit tight, and service can lag when the crowd picks up. But for most, the flavors and authenticity outweigh these minor hiccups.

A Slice of Korean Culture in London

Since opening its doors in 2014, Bari Bari has been more than just a restaurant; it’s a bridge to Korean heritage. The name itself reflects a promise of dedication, echoing the care put into every dish. It’s a spot where Londoners can explore the bold spices, fermented delights, and communal dining style that define Korean food. For locals and expats alike, it’s a taste of home or a chance to try something new without leaving the city.

This focus on culture shines through in the little details. The banchan, those small side dishes that come with your meal, aren’t just fillers; they’re a nod to tradition. The kimchi, tangy and spicy, pairs perfectly with the richness of grilled meats or the simplicity of steamed rice. It’s these touches that make Bari Bari feel authentic, even miles away from Korea.

Practical Tips for Your Visit

Planning a trip to Bari Bari? Call ahead at +44 20 3759 4713 to reserve a table, especially if you’re heading there during dinner hours. The address, 24 White Church Lane, London E1 7QL, is easy to plug into your GPS or map app. If you’re relying on public transport, Aldgate East is your best bet for a quick walk.

Bring your appetite, and don’t shy away from trying something new. The menu’s variety means there’s something for everyone, whether you’re a seasoned fan of Korean cuisine or a curious first-timer. And if you can’t make it in person, their social media pages, like the official Facebook account, keep you updated on specials and hours.

Why Bari Bari Stands Out

London’s food scene is packed with options, but Bari Bari carves out its own niche. It’s not just another eatery; it’s a place where quality meets tradition, where you can grill your own meal or dig into a steaming bowl of goodness. The mix of accessibility, flavor, and a welcoming vibe makes it a standout in Whitechapel and beyond.

For anyone in the United Kingdom eager to explore Korean cuisine, Bari Bari delivers an experience that’s hard to beat. It’s a reminder that great food doesn’t need to be complicated; it just needs heart. So next time you’re near East London, swing by and see why this spot has earned its loyal following. You might just find your new favorite dish waiting.

Review

What Customers Say

"I was looking for a halal Korean bbq place and finally found in london. We ordered chicken and beef along with chicken bibinbob and fried rice. I liked the concept as u cook the meat urself on hot plate and is served with lettuce and pepper, garlic and couple of sauces. It was my first time so I wasn't very sure how to eat it but in the end we figured it out meat was well seasoned and fresh off course . Place was very busy and table was given to us only for hour and half and we had to rush as meat needs to be cooked at the table. We were walk ins so we thought they are trying to accommodate us but when we were checking out another family who had reservations were told the same that table will be given only for hour and a half. Over all experience was good. I might go again with friends but don't see myself going just for the food."

Uzma A.

"Gotta go to this place when you are in London and have craving for decent Korean food. Great service and great location from main attractions in London!!"

Daniel L.

"Decent Korean restaurant. I would give it 3.5 stars but I round it up for the friendly staff and nice place. I had a Bibimbap which was fine, nothing exceptional and for GBP 9.50 there wasn't much meat and I didn't like that the egg was completely cooked."

Chris M.

"It's a little gem of a place, hidden down a side street, just across the road from Aldgate East Station (take the Whitechapel Gallery exit), and cross over the road into White Church Lane and it's at the other end, just before you hit Commercial Road. It's an open kitchen so you can see and smell the cooking wafting into the small eating area and out of the door. The delicious smells are wafting out even as you approach it. The restaurant is small and is laid out on two levels, the upper level is for tables of twos and the ground level are tables for four. Everything sounds good on the menu and you just want to eat everything off it. We chose the Kimchi Pancakes, the original KFC (Korean Fried Chicken!), a plate of BBQ Beef, and a bowl of steamed rice. All freshly prepared and well presented. However, the KFC is not as crispy as it should be as it was not double deep fried, but nevertheless, with the spicy sweet sauce, it still tastes absolutely scrummy. The pancake with the kimchi cabbage, egg and onions, is a very tasty Korean omelette. The BBQ beef was not as hot and sizzling as it should be, but the sweet flavours are good. All in all, a very relaxed and cosy atmosphere, tables are quite close together so you could strike up a conversation with the tables next to you quite easily, and end up making new friends!"

Mei S.

"This little simple Korean restaurant caught my eye because it was crowded for dinner. I came in for lunch today and really enjoyed my meal. I ordered the bulgogi lunch special on top of noodles and a side order of chicken dumplings. Fast, efficient service and solid food. I added more chilli sauce (more sweet chilli than hot) to the food and the flavors were good. On a small side street, it certainly is authentic Korean in London."

Alaine H.