I was visiting family I had not been able to see in years, and wanted to end our night together with a great Korean BBQ experience. We ordered the premium menu ($34.99 per person), expecting quality and enjoyment. Instead, we had to hold back our frustration and focus on staying calm rather than enjoying our meal. Bad: - [ ] Firepower in K-BBQ is critical, but the grill here was weak. Waiting 10-15 minutes for the meat to be cooked after two pieces is unpleasant. - [ ] The food orders were significantly delayed. The first round came out promptly, but every order after that took far too long. Expect to wait 20-30 minutes or more after adding anything to the system. - [ ] Their staff clearly needs better training. - [1] Whether it was a system glitch or a misguided protocol to prioritize newly seated customers over existing ones, it is unacceptable. - [2] The grill was changed only once during our dinner. We asked multiple times, and nothing happened after they said, "Okay, we will change the grill for you shortly." - [3] Throughout the dinner, no one checked on us or asked how our food was; not even a simple "How is everything?" It showed a complete lack of attentiveness and basic customer care. - [ ] The quality/grade of the meat was poor. I was disappointed when my parents, who have been here before, mentioned a notable change in quality. Good: - [ ] There are plenty of K-BBQ options, making it one of the best ways to sample various meats and flavors in one sitting. - [ ] Parking lot is available for the customer. Conclusion: Watching a newly seated table receive the same dish I'd ordered 20 minutes earlier made it clear that something in their system is broken. We had to keep asking to confirm our order, yet nothing was corrected. Unfortunately, I will not be returning. It was far too much hassle dealing with repeated issues and poor service. read more

We recently checked out YakiniQ in Livermore, hoping to find a new go-to KBBQ spot since our beloved Gen BBQ decided to put our favorite Cajun sauce behind a premium fee (seriously, wtf?!). Overall, YakiniQ delivered a solid experience, though it didn't quite surpass Gen in every area. First off, the food was definitely good. The marinated meats were tasty, but I have to say, they didn't quite hit the same high notes as Gen's. I wish YakiniQ had a bit more variety in their marinated options. That said, everything we tried was still delicious, with the spicy pork belly and banchans being our absolute favorites. The "one per person" boneless short rib looked super promising, almost wagyu-like with all that marbling, but it turned out to be a little chewier than expected. Not a dealbreaker, but definitely something to note. Where YakiniQ really shines is the service. It was a noticeable step up from what we've gotten used to at Gen. We never had to ask for a grill change, and our food came out promptly after we ordered through their website. The staff was on top of everything, which made the meal that much more enjoyable. One small area for improvement: the sauce variety. We like to mix things up, and having more options would definitely elevate the experience. Wish they had a cajun sauce replica like Gen lol All in all, YakiniQ is a great spot, and we'll definitely be back. While it doesn't quite dethrone Gen BBQ for us, especially when it comes to marinated meats, the excellent service and tasty food make it a solid contender in the KBBQ scene. read more

The ever-expanding culinary scene of Livermore, CA has been graced by a new kid on the block, YakiniQ LV, an all-you-can-eat Korean BBQ joint that teases with a fusion of traditional flavors and a dash of modernity. The food at YakiniQ LV was deliciously impressive, with offerings that go beyond the standard fare. The Kimchi Fried Rice, included in their standard pricing, was a delightful surprise that quickly became a favorite among our group. The meats were mostly fresh and the seasoned or marinated selections, simply divine. Service was exemplary; the staff was quick to clear our table and replace our grills, ensuring a smooth dining experience. Although there was a minor hiccup in fetching extra utensils, the overall attentiveness of the service team more than made up for it. While the ambiance was fairly pleasant with a bright and open decor, it did feel a bit cramped, partly due to the bar area being under-utilized and the limited seating at each table. The constraints can pose a challenge for larger gatherings. However, they are still in their soft opening phase, and with future refinements, I believe they have the potential to improve. As for wait times, be prepared for a longer wait than initially indicated. What was supposed to be an hour wait extended close to two. But remember, good things come to those who wait, right? Despite these hiccups, my family and I are excited to return, armed with the knowledge to plan ahead. We look forward to seeing YakiniQ LV continue to sizzle in Livermore's bustling food scene. read more

I recently reviewed the YakiniQ in San Jose, and I found that both locations are quite comparable in terms of quality and price. I love the beef rib finger and ribeye steak, and at $33 for the regular AYCE, it's very much worth it! However, there are key differences between this location and the San Jose one--primarily in their reservation management. At this location, it seemed they overbooked for the time my group had reserved. We arrived on time, probably 5-10 minutes early, but our table wasn't ready until an hour later. This was completely disappointing because a one-hour wait past your reservation time is a bit absurd. The person handling the reservations kept telling us, "5/10/15 more minutes," but the wait was always longer. Once we were seated, though, the customer service from the servers was great. Our orders were delivered quickly, water was refilled promptly, and the grill was frequently changed. Another difference is the interior atmosphere. I prefer the spacious seating arrangement at this location compared to San Jose's. I never felt like something was on the verge of accidentally falling or spilling due to the lack of space. I'd definitely visit this restaurant again, but hopefully, they can improve the reservation system. read more

I recently had the pleasure of dining at YakiniQ, and it was an unforgettable experience! From the moment I walked in, I was greeted with a warm and inviting atmosphere. The staff was incredibly friendly and attentive, ensuring that we had everything we needed for an exceptional meal. The all-you-can-eat Korean BBQ menu is outstanding, offering a wide variety of high-quality meats and fresh ingredients. The **Galbi (marinated short ribs)** were a highlight, cooked to perfection with rich flavors that left me craving more. The side dishes, such as the **Kimchi** and **Japchae (glass noodles)**, were equally delicious and complemented the meal perfectly. The grilling stations are well-maintained, and the staff is always on hand to assist with cooking and recommendations. The modern and stylish interior adds to the overall dining experience, making it a great place for both casual dinners and special occasions. Overall, YakiniQ exceeded my expectations with its top-notch service, fantastic food, and inviting atmosphere. It's a must-visit for anyone who loves Korean BBQ. I'll definitely be returning soon! read more

I recently visited YakiniQ and, with a name like that, I mistakenly assumed I'd be enjoying Japanese BBQ rather than Korean BBQ--but it was still a good experience! Starting with the high points: the premium cuts of meat were excellent, well-marbled, and flavorful, making the grilling experience really enjoyable. The side dishes (banchan) were fresh and delicious, adding a great balance to the meal. However, there were a couple of areas for improvement. The white rice was a bit too mushy for my taste and didn't hold up well with the meat and sauces. Speaking of sauces, the restaurant provides a generous assortment--five in total--but it was a bit of a mystery figuring out what each one was intended for. It would be super helpful if YakiniQ labeled the sauces to guide diners on the best pairings. Overall, though, if you're looking for quality Korean BBQ and don't mind a little guesswork with the condiments, YakiniQ is definitely worth a visit. I'm already looking forward to coming back for another round of premium meats and banchan! read more

I personally think this restaurant is far better than Gen in terms of value and quality. The food is fresh, flavorful, and well-prepared, making it a standout choice. The portions are generous, and you can really taste the difference in the quality of ingredients used. Service was another highlight. The staff was attentive and efficient, ensuring that everything arrived quickly. Since it was our first visit, they went the extra mile by offering my daughters some green tea ice cream, which was a thoughtful touch. The ice cream itself was delicious--smooth, creamy, and just the right amount of sweetness. The ambiance also added to the experience. The restaurant had a warm and inviting atmosphere, with a clean and stylish interior that made dining there even more enjoyable. Whether you're looking for a casual meal or a place to celebrate, this spot feels like a great choice. Overall, I'd highly recommend it for anyone looking for great food, excellent service, and a welcoming environment. Definitely a step up from Gen in every way! read more

This all-you-can-eat Korean BBQ spot is so yummy! The ability to order directly from your phone is a game-changer--it's simple, efficient, and eliminates the hassle of flagging down staff and long waits. The restaurant offers two menus, and both have a great variety of options to suit different tastes. Whether you're in the mood for premium cuts or standard classics, there's something for everyone. The quality of the meat was excellent--tender, flavorful, and fresh. The banchan and dipping sauces added great flavor and variety to the meal. The grills were clean, and staff were quick to replace them when needed. Service was attentive, even with the digital ordering system. Food arrived promptly after each order, and the staff was friendly and accommodating. Overall, this is a fantastic spot for Korean BBQ lovers, especially if you appreciate the convenience of modern technology paired with the tradition of DIY cooking. Highly recommend trying both menus to explore everything they offer! read more

If I can give zero star, it will be a zero. Food was good. Didn't have to wait on a Sunday. We got seated right away. Everything was good. However, when we were leaving, the host and a waitress opened the door and asked us to go back to the restaurant. But for what? He just kept saying we had to go back in. He acted like we didnt pay and tried to run away. The host said that we took the receipt. We told him that the person who took the receipt asked if we needed our copy and we said we didn't need it. That person took both receipts away. If he was being polite and not assuming we tried to leave without paying, I would be ok with that. We understand that there would be mistakes. But don't assume. We showed our transaction on our credit card. The waitress admitted that they made a mistake. It was not our table. However, the host never ever apologized for his mistake. It was rude!!!! read more

Was prob the best Korean bbq I have had in the East bay. The most impressive part of our dine in was the servers/food runner/bus boy. They didn't have a designated role, like they did everything and the were good at it. They were so speedy, food came out really fast, empty plates were taken away under 30 seconds (yes I counted) despite they were really busy. Grill turned black and they changed it before I could ask. The food was really good as well. There were A5 wagyu meat but limited to one order per person per table. But that was already good enough for us. Menu was a scan to order thing the interface is out of date and looks ancient but it gets the job done. They provided internet but it's slower than my data so don't do it lol. read more

YakiniQ in Livermore is a fantastic spot for Korean BBQ enthusiasts. The ordering system via QR code is convenient and efficient, ensuring a smooth dining experience. The service is impressively fast, allowing you to enjoy your meal without unnecessary delays. Among the standout dishes, the short rib, brisket, and beef belly are absolute must-tries. The short rib is tender and flavorful, the brisket is perfectly cooked, and the beef belly melts in your mouth. Be prepared for a long wait, but it's well worth it. Make sure to use the Yelp waitlist (10 miles away) feature to minimize your wait time. Overall, YakiniQ delivers an exceptional KBBQ experience with delicious food and prompt service. read more

I visited Yakiniq on a Sunday at 7 PM and found it to be not too crowded, which was nice. Parking is available, but I could see it getting tight if it were busier. The food was excellent, featuring a great variety of banchans. We opted for the premium menu at about $40 per person (excluding tip), and it was absolutely worth it, especially for the American wagyu beef belly. The ordering process through a QR code on your phone was convenient, and the staff was very attentive, particularly with grill changes. The meat came out quickly, which added to the overall experience. I'll definitely be back for more! read more

My wife and I came here for the first time after trying their San Jose location, and this spot did not disappoint! The servers were super helpful and attentive--we ordered through the app, and the food came out really fast. They were also quick to clear empty plates, change the grill, and offer more sides, which made the experience smooth and enjoyable. We ended up coming back a second time because we loved the food so much. The quality was just as good the second visit, though we were a little bummed they didn't have ice cream that time. Overall, still a great experience and definitely worth coming back! read more

The waiting times on weekdays are quite long. Even though we were number 1 on the waitlist for 25 minutes, many walk-ins were seated ahead of us. A better management system is needed. However, the food portions were plenty, and the wide selection of premium meats for $36.99 was definitely worth it, especially the miso-marinated pork belly. The service was mostly quick, but we had to check in with the staff occasionally. Overall, it's definitely worth visiting, but improvements in service and additional ventilation to reduce the smokiness would enhance the experience. read more

If you're in Livermore and craving KBBQ experience, YakiniQ is an absolute must-visit! From the moment you step in, the welcoming atmosphere sets the stage for a memorable meal. The quality of the meat is top-notch--each cut is tender and flavorful, and the grill plates ensure a perfectly seared experience. The variety of side dishes are impressive and complements the BBQ perfectly. Service is friendly and attentive, making sure you have everything you need without feeling rushed. YakiniQ delivers a delicious, satisfying meal that's worth every star. read more

This YakiniQ location stands out as the best I've visited. The restaurant is exceptionally clean, and the quality of the meat is outstanding. Compared to other AYCE Korean BBQ spots, this one truly excels. One of the highlights is that you can order beef tartare at no extra charge, which is a rare and welcome perk. The galbi is incredibly fresh, with perfect marbling--rich in flavor without being overly fatty. Overall, I had a fantastic dining experience and will definitely be coming back! read more

Incredible!! The ambiance, the service, the food.. top notch!! The wagyu was delicious!! Photos don't do it justice. My husband and I really enjoyed it and can't wait to be back!! read more

Good quality meet and good service always checking up on you and they're so friendly .....

Great food, great and fast service, and appropriate price!!!!!!!¡!!!!!!!!!!¡!!!!!!!!!!!!!