Korean BBQ reaches the American mainstream (2010s)
Tabletop grilling with built-in burners spread from Los Angeles' Koreatown to cities and suburbs nationwide. Gimmicky at first, the format became a standard night-out option with marinated meats cooked at the table.
New Korean BBQ spots drew long lines and copycats in every major market.
Korean BBQ became a recognized dining category beyond Koreatown enclaves.
Explains why a Korean BBQ restaurant is being built in a Denver neighborhood rather than a traditional Koreatown.
