Maru Korean Restaurant

Brisbane’s K-BBQ devotees have packed this Elizabeth Street fixture since 2014—and one glance at the sizzling dolsot bowls explains the perpetual ground-floor queue. Downstairs operates as a high-octane temple of smoke, Wagyu, and flawlessly grilled gopchang. Upstairs offers a slightly quieter haven for soul-warming jjigae and chewy japchae. Those chasing the perfect nurungji—that coveted, crispy layer of scorched rice anchoring a massive bowl of marinated beef bibimbap—will find total satisfaction here. Plentiful, bottomless banchan is the standard, with the marinated eggs earning serious praise from long-time patrons. Factor in the deeply savory yukgaejang on the lunch menu and ice-cold Peach Earl Grey tea, and you have a high-energy, budget-friendly feast. Expect a wait, follow the smoke, and dive in.