A cozy, retro Korean BBQ spot near Christie Station with some of the best marinated meats in the city. Mapo has a neighbourhood feel that bigger Korean BBQ chains can't replicate — loyal regulars since 2015.
Neighbourhood: Koreatown (Christie St) · Address: 682 Bloor St W, Toronto, ON M6G 1L2 · Hours: Mon–Thu 4PM–10:30PM | Fri–Sat 4PM–11PM | Sun 4PM–9:30PM · Price Range: $$ · Phone: (416) 534-4888 · Website: https://mapokoreanbbq.ca · Editorial status: Not yet verified
Come for perfectly seasoned meats grilled at your table and stay for the unfussy, comfortable neighbourhood feel. Mapo is the kind of spot where regulars chat with staff and nothing is rushed.
Unlike big chains, Mapo is all about neighbourhood hospitality and generous portions. You get real-deal Korean BBQ, serious about its meats but welcoming to first-timers and loyal regulars alike. The staff are quick to offer grilling tips or extra lettuce wraps, and it never feels corporate.
Mapo Korean BBQ is a long-time Koreatown favourite, serving up sizzling meats just steps from Christie Station. Open since 2015 and run by a friendly family team, the room is a tight squeeze filled with old-school booths, wood panelling, and that familiar BBQ aroma. The menu sticks to the classics—think intensely marinated galbi, spicy pork bulgogi, and all the lettuce wraps and banchan you could want. You grill at your own table, so it's as interactive as it gets in this compact, neighbourhood joint.
Reservations are recommended for groups or weekends, but walk-ins are welcome—small tables turn over pretty quickly.
The marinated galbi (short rib) is the unanimous favourite—rich, sweet, and perfectly tender when grilled.
Great for groups of 3–6; the tables are close together, so it can get lively but space is at a premium.
Most meat combos are $22–$32 per person; with drinks and sides, expect $30–$45 each.
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