Chán Shāo Ròu Zen Yakiniku Gāo Xióng Diàn

Stepping into Zen Yakiniku in Kaohsiung, I was immediately struck by its modern Japanese-yakiniku ambiance: warm lighting, clean lines, and a deployment of wood... read more Stepping into Zen Yakiniku in Kaohsiung, I was immediately struck by its modern Japanese-yakiniku ambiance: warm lighting, clean lines, and a deployment of wooden accents that balanced elegance with casual comfort. The aroma of grilling meat lingers, yet the ventilation is sufficiently managed so that the smoke isn’t overwhelming. Seating options include both more open tables and some semi-private sections which are good for quieter meals or small groups. Service was polite and very prompt. The staff were attentive especially Tangbao and the young lady that cook our meat on my first. The second visit I was lucky enough to have Tangbao once again and without fail she made our meal that much more enjoyable, bringing the meats promptly and offering advice when asked — for instance, which cuts are best for a quick sear versus ones better cooked more slowly. They also helped with the grill temperature and changing grilling nets when needed, which adds to the comfort. Tangbao recommended a drink called Zen Japanese Oolong Belles Milk Wine/Hojicha/High Mountain Oolong Green Tea. Which I found very delicious and had to indulge myself and have two. On to the food: their meat selection impressed. The cuts were fresh, well-marbled, with a nice variety. There were beef, pork, and perhaps some more premium offerings. Marinades and sauces complemented rather than masked the meat’s natural flavor. Side dishes were wonderful and complimented the meat: good rice, crisp vegetables, a nice and miso soup. One highlight was how nicely the meat cooked — even thinner slices grilled evenly without drying out, and the fattier cuts melted in the mouth. The charcoal grill did a solid job of giving a slight char without burning. The attention to timing made a difference. My hat goes off to those individuals that cut the meat and arrange the dishes to come out outstanding job very good presentation. You could actually taste the meat before you cooked it from the presentation. As for value: with the average cost per person around NT$1,130, it sits at a mid to upper tier price for yakiniku in Kaohsiung. It’s not cheap, but given the quality of meat, service, and overall environment, it feels like a fair exchange. If you’re coming with others and plan to order various types, it gets even better in terms of value. If anything was less perfect: I found out you need to make a reservation as I found out at most restaurants this is a must. As I enjoyed my meal I can see why a reservation is need. So with me being from the States I made the adjustment need to quickly adopt to the language and use Goggle Translator to help me. I had an early dinner during the week and there was no wait for a table or for certain cuts, and some premium meats may carry a higher premium that’s noticeable. Overall, Zen Yakiniku is a strong choice for anyone craving Japanese barbecue in Kaohsiung. It’s especially suitable for dinner with friends or family, for a somewhat special night rather than a quick, budget meal. Definitely worth a revisit — especially to try some of their higher-end cuts or chef’s recommendations. Meal type: Dinner Price per person: $1,200–1,400 Food: 5 Service: 5 Atmosphere: 5

The food is really delicious and the place is , every food they serve is tasty I’m so satisfied and the staff is friendly and nicethank you til next time Food:... read more The food is really delicious and the place is , every food they serve is tasty I’m so satisfied and the staff is friendly and nicethank you til next time Food: 5 Service: 5 Atmosphere: 5

Loved everything about this, everything was delicious, we even got some stuff on the house. On the expensive side but worth it! Meal type: Dinner Price per pers... read more Loved everything about this, everything was delicious, we even got some stuff on the house. On the expensive side but worth it! Meal type: Dinner Price per person: $1,600–1,800 Food: 5 Service: 5 Atmosphere: 5