Korean BBQ at the Pine Tree

My friends and I drove down Reseda Boulevard in search a restaurant that deviated from the fast food variety. Stopped at a red light with our windows down, a waft of smoky grilled meat filled the car. We tracked down the scent at Pine Tree Korean BBQ.

The outside of the restaurant resembled a run-down Sizzler’s — a restaurant that used to be fancy in the early 90’s, but has not had a facelift since then. The B rating also left us feeling slightly uneasy, but our stomachs had no patience for letter grades. We needed to eat.

The server greeted us with a face of stone, while we debated on who should ask for her recommendations on the menu and how much food we should order.

We ordered a combo dinner — teriyaki beef strips and beef rib eye. The server asked if we wanted to have the meat grilled in the back or grill it ourselves on top of our table. She lifted the cover in the center of the table and revealed a small grill. We opted to cook the meat ourselves to get the full experience.

The food arrived quickly. Little bowls filled with kimchi, fried pork dumplings, pickled radish, seaweed salad, green lettuce salad, bean sprouts and broccoli, potato salad, tofu and a fish cake piled the table leaving little room for our plates.

The tangy, sweet marinade on the beef teriyaki strips made the meat tender and juicy. The rib eye was also juicy, but less flavorful than the beef strips.

The check arrived with orange slices, and we all sat for a few moments, leaning back in our seats, wishing we had worn stretchy pants.

Pine Tree did serve its purpose in feeding three hungry college students; however, the prices aren’t very student-friendly. I recommend coming with a small group of friends if you’re starving and split the bill.

Pine Tree Korean BBQ is located on 8322 Reseda Blvd Northridge, CA 91324. Hours of operation are 11a.m. – 10p.m. seven days a week. To make reservations call (818) 886-1512.