Shin Korean Barbecue Arrives in Hollywood

Fans of Korean barbecue have yet another choice for the do-it-yourself cuisine. Located in Hollywood, Shin joins recently opened barbecue outposts on the Westside like Jian and Gyenari as the latest in a crop of non-Koreatown-based spots that let guests have a go at grilling meats such as ribs, chicken and pork belly at their tables.

The restaurant, which celebrated its official opening last week, seats 100 and features tabletop grills that suck smoke downwards, so guests don't have to worry about leaving smelling like it.

Those who fear they’ll have to sacrifice authenticity for the convenience of the restaurant’s location will be happy to know that owner and chef Simon Shin, who grew up cooking at his family’s restaurants in Koreatown, incorporates his folks’ traditional recipes into the menu, tweaking them slightly to appeal to broader audiences.

Jellyfish drift in a circular aquarium that sits behind a full bar, which seats 10 and offers a selection of Asian beers and fruit-infused shoju. The space, which is available for buyouts, is equipped with DJ and projection equipment. (DJ Steve Aoki spun at the grand opening, and film images decorated a wall.) A patio is located at the back, and there are plans to add a second patio by the entrance.