Gyu-Kaku Japanese BBQ: An Interactive Dining Experience in Charlotte, NC

Gyu-Kaku Japanese BBQ Introduce

For those in North Carolina seeking a truly unique and engaging dining adventure, Gyu-Kaku Japanese BBQ in Charlotte offers an unparalleled experience. More than just a restaurant, Gyu-Kaku invites you to become part of the cooking process, bringing the authentic Japanese yakiniku (grilled barbecue) tradition right to your table. Imagine gathering with friends or family, sharing laughter and conversation as you grill expertly marinated, high-quality meats and fresh vegetables over a personal smokeless grill built into your table. This interactive approach makes every meal a memorable event, perfect for celebrating special occasions, a fun date night, or simply enjoying delicious food in a relaxed, cozy atmosphere. Gyu-Kaku, which means "Horn of the Bull" in Japanese, is renowned globally for its commitment to flavor and quality. From the rich marinades to the attentive staff, every detail is designed to ensure a fantastic experience that leaves a lasting impression, making it a standout choice for Japanese and Korean BBQ enthusiasts across Charlotte.

Gyu-Kaku Japanese BBQ is conveniently located at 650 E Brooklyn Vlg Ave unit a, Charlotte, NC 28202, USA. This address places it in the heart of Uptown Charlotte, making it easily accessible from various parts of the city. Its proximity to numerous businesses, residential buildings, and entertainment venues adds to its appeal as a central dining spot. When it comes to accessibility, Gyu-Kaku makes it particularly convenient for diners. They offer complimentary valet parking on the ground level, a significant benefit in a busy urban area like Uptown Charlotte, alleviating the stress of finding a parking spot. Additionally, for those who prefer to self-park, there are designated Gyu-Kaku spaces on P2 of the building's garage, and shared parking is available on P3 and P4. Elevators provide easy access directly to the restaurant's lobby entrance. For those utilizing public transportation, the Charlotte Area Transit System (CATS) offers bus routes that serve the Uptown area, with stops within reasonable walking distance. This combination of central location and thoughtful parking solutions ensures that your visit to Gyu-Kaku is as seamless and enjoyable as the dining experience itself.

Gyu-Kaku Japanese BBQ offers a unique and engaging range of services centered around its interactive grilling experience. Their commitment to quality and customer satisfaction is evident in their offerings:

Tabletop Yakiniku (Grilled BBQ) Dining: The signature service where guests grill their own premium, marinated meats, seafood, and vegetables right at their table using a smokeless grill. This creates a fun, social, and interactive dining atmosphere.
À la Carte Menu: A wide selection of individual items for grilling, including various cuts of beef (like Harami Skirt Steak and Prime Kalbi Short Rib), pork, poultry, and seafood, all expertly marinated.
Prix-Fixe BBQ Courses: Specially curated courses (e.g., Gyu-Kaku Course, Meat Lover's Course, Kobe Style Course) designed for 2 or more people, offering a comprehensive tasting of their best-selling and signature items, often including appetizers, salads, rice, and dessert.
All-You-Can-Eat (AYCE) Options: Available during specific hours (e.g., Sun-Thu until 7:45 PM, Fri & Sat until 8:45 PM), allowing guests to enjoy unlimited portions from a selected AYCE menu, providing exceptional value.
Full Bar Service: A selection of Japanese sake, shochu, frosty cold beers, and other beverages to complement the grilled meats.
Takeout Service: Offering a selection of Gyu-Bowls (rice and noodle bowls), appetizers, and family meals for convenient enjoyment at home.
Catering/Family Meals: Pre-packaged "Gyu-Family Meals" that feature a selection of fan favorites, designed to feed a group easily.
Friendly and Attentive Staff: Consistently praised for their knowledge, efficiency, and dedication to ensuring a great dining experience for first-timers and regulars alike.

Gyu-Kaku Japanese BBQ stands out with several key features and highlights that make it a compelling choice for diners in Charlotte:

Interactive Grilling Experience: The main highlight is the personal smokeless grill at each table, allowing guests to cook their own meats and vegetables to their preferred doneness, turning dining into a fun and engaging activity.
High-Quality, Flavorful Meats: Consistently praised for their "delicious," "well-marinated," and "very tender and juicy" meats, including best-sellers like Harami Skirt Steak and Prime Kalbi Short Rib, some of which are 21-day aged for enhanced tenderness and flavor.
Diverse Menu with Japanese & Korean Fusion: While primarily Japanese BBQ (Yakiniku), the menu incorporates flavorful elements of Korean BBQ, offering a rich "fusion" experience. It extends beyond grilled items to include ramen (like Tonkotsu), various rice and noodle bowls, appetizers (e.g., Fried Pork Gyoza, Spicy Tuna Volcano, Takoyaki), and salads.
Exceptional Staff Knowledge and Service: Servers are frequently commended for being "amazing," "very knowledgeable about everything," "attentive, friendly, and efficient," guiding guests through the interactive dining process and making first-time visits especially smooth.
Cozy and Inviting Atmosphere: Described as "very cozy," the restaurant fosters an enjoyable environment perfect for social gatherings, from first dates to group outings with friends and family.
Smokeless Grills: The advanced down-draft system ensures that smoke is pulled away from guests, providing a comfortable grilling experience without leaving you smelling like BBQ.
Dessert Options: While the focus is on savory BBQ, they offer unique desserts like S'mores (grilled at the table) and Taiyaki, providing a sweet end to the meal.
Convenient Parking: The availability of complimentary valet parking, as well as designated and shared garage parking, is a significant advantage in the bustling Uptown area.

Gyu-Kaku Japanese BBQ in Charlotte is well-known for its fantastic promotions and special offers, making it an even more enticing dining destination. Here are some of their notable offerings:

Daily Happy Hour: This is a major highlight, with food happy hour running daily from 11:30 AM to 5:00 PM. During this period, guests can enjoy significant discounts on a wide selection of appetizers (e.g., Edamame, Spicy Tuna Volcano, Fried Pork Gyoza, Takoyaki), various grilled meats (including Umakara Ribeye, Chicken Basil, Spicy Pork), salads, and more. This makes it an ideal spot for an affordable and satisfying lunch or early dinner.
Drink Happy Hour: Available Monday through Thursday, all day, offering specials on alcoholic beverages to complement your meal.
All-You-Can-Eat (AYCE) Deals: Gyu-Kaku offers multiple AYCE tiers (Standard, Premium, Ultimate), allowing diners to enjoy unlimited amounts of various menu items within a set time frame (typically 90 minutes). The AYCE option is available daily, with last seating for AYCE often extended on Friday and Saturday evenings.
BBQ Courses: While not a discount, their prix-fixe BBQ Courses (e.g., Gyu-Kaku Course, Meat Lover's Course) are structured to provide excellent value for groups of two or more, combining popular items, starters, sides, and desserts at a set price, often saving money compared to ordering à la carte.
Family Meals: Pre-designed "Gyu-Family Meals" offer a convenient and cost-effective way to enjoy a variety of their best dishes, perfect for takeout or a shared meal at home.
Restaurant Week Participation: Gyu-Kaku often participates in local events like Charlotte's Restaurant Week (Queen's Feast), where they may offer special multi-course menus at a fixed price, providing a unique opportunity to experience their cuisine.

These consistent and varied promotions make Gyu-Kaku a flexible option for many budgets and dining preferences, encouraging repeat visits and allowing guests to explore their extensive menu.

For reservations, inquiries about their menu, or to arrange a takeout order, you can easily reach Gyu-Kaku Japanese BBQ using the following contact information:

Address: 650 E Brooklyn Vlg Ave unit a, Charlotte, NC 28202, USA

Phone: (980) 585-3012

This information provides direct access to the restaurant's team, allowing customers to confirm hours, ask about specific menu items or promotions, or make arrangements for their visit, ensuring a smooth and convenient experience from the moment they decide to dine at Gyu-Kaku.

For locals in North Carolina, particularly in the bustling city of Charlotte, Gyu-Kaku Japanese BBQ is an exceptionally suitable and highly recommended dining destination. Its interactive "Japanese BBQ" concept, where you grill your own food at the table, provides a wonderfully engaging and memorable experience that goes beyond a typical restaurant meal. This makes it perfect for social gatherings, celebrations, or a unique date night. The restaurant consistently delivers on flavor, with "delicious," "well-marinated," and "high-quality meats" that are a testament to their dedication to authentic yakiniku. The presence of a "smokeless grill" at each table is a significant advantage, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable cooking experience without lingering odors. Furthermore, the attentive, friendly, and knowledgeable staff, like Jorge, are a consistent highlight, ensuring even first-time visitors feel comfortable and well-guided through the menu. The accessibility of the location in Uptown Charlotte, complete with the convenience of complimentary valet parking and easy access to public transport, further enhances its appeal. With daily happy hour specials on both food and drinks, as well as comprehensive All-You-Can-Eat options and curated BBQ courses, Gyu-Kaku offers fantastic value and flexibility for various budgets and appetites. While some reviews mention minor cosmetic needs within the restaurant, the overwhelmingly positive feedback regarding the food quality and stellar service firmly positions Gyu-Kaku Japanese BBQ as a must-visit culinary gem for anyone in Charlotte seeking a vibrant, interactive, and flavorful dining adventure.

Gyu-Kaku Japanese BBQ Menu

Appetizers
Vegetable Spring Rolls US$8.95
Four (4) Fried Vegetable Spring Rolls with Sweet Chili Dipping Sauce on the side.
Fried Cheese Wontons US$7.45
Crispy fried wontons filled with cream cheese and green onions. Served with sweet chili sauce.
Miso Chili Wings US$11.00
Five (5) fried chicken wings coated in our sweet & spicy Miso Chili sauce.
Black Pepper Wings US$10.45
Dangerously addictive Nagoya-style Tebasaki chicken wings! Five (5) fresh-fried wings tossed in a sweet soy and black pepper sauce.
Fried Pork Gyoza Dumplings US$7.95
Five (5) Fried Pork Gyoza Dumplings with Ponzu citrus soy dipping sauce
Japanese Fried Chicken Karaage US$7.95
Our secret-marinated Japanese Fried Chicken Karaage. Served with Japanese Chili Mayo and a wedge of lemon.
Takoyaki US$8.45
Fried Octopus Balls! A street food classic straight from Osaka. Six fried octopus fritters drizzled with Takoyaki sauce and Japanese mayo. Topped with crushed bonito flakes and green onions.

Gyu-Bowls
Spicy Beef Rice Bowl US$14.00
Beef rib meat and rice dowsed in our signature Umakara Sauce and mixed with an assortment of bell pepper, shishito pepper, and corn, then garnished with sesame, green onions, and chili flakes.
Beef Sukiyaki Fried Rice Bowl US$14.00
Our signature thin-sliced Sukiyaki-marinated beef stir-fried with white rice, egg yolk, mushrooms, and sliced onions. Topped with diced red bell peppers, chopped green onions, and sesame seeds.
Crunchy Garlic Shrimp Noodles US$15.00
Crunchy Garlic Shrimp atop thick Japanese noodles stir-fried with sliced garlic, crunchy chili garlic oil, butter, and soy sauce. Topped with diced red bell peppers, chopped green onions, and sesame seeds. Mildly spicy.
Garlic Shoyu Chicken Noodles US$14.00
Thick Japanese noodles stir-fried with chicken, sliced garlic, butter, and soy sauce. Topped with diced red bell peppers, chopped green onions, and sesame seeds.
Roast Beef Rice Bowl US$15.00
Premium roast beef on a bed of mixed greens and steamed rice. Topped with white and green onions, Signature soy-based barbecue sauce, and kuki wasabi.
Garlic Fried Rice Bowl US$11.50
Our Garlic Fried Rice features white rice stir-fried with egg yolk, sliced onions, sliced garlic. Seasoned with a combination of our Shio Soy Sauce, butter, sesame oil, and black pepper. Topped with chopped green onions and fried garlic chips.
Umakara Beef Rice Bowl US$14.00
Thin-sliced Yakishabu beef marinated in our sweet & spicy Umakara sauce with sliced onions on a bed of white rice and shredded cabbage. Topped with chopped green onions and sesame seeds.
Fried Chicken Karaage Rice Bowl US$14.00
Japanese Fried Chicken Karaage on a bed of white rice and shredded cabbage. Topped with Japanese Chili Mayo and chopped green onions.
Beyond Beef Rice Bowl US$14.00
Our beloved Sukiyaki Bibimbap goes BEYOND. 100% plant-based Beyond Beef is marinated in our secret Sukiyaki sauce and stir fried with mushrooms, diced red bell peppers, and sliced white onions. Served over rice. Topped with chopped green onions and sesame seeds. Also contains butter and sesame oil. Picture for visualization purposes only. Beyond Bibimbap will arrive pre-mixed.

Sides
White Rice US$4.00
Steamed white rice.
Miso Soup US$4.45
A comforting cup of our classic miso soup with seaweed, tofu, and chopped green onions.

Desserts
S'mores US$4.00
Two S'mores pre-softened, wrapped-up, and ready to eat! Graham Cracker, marshmallow, and milk chocolate.

Gyu-Combo: Make Your Own Magic!
Gyu-Combo: 3 Choice Of Protein US$19.00
The closest you can get to the Gyu-Kaku yakiniku experience without grilling the meat yourself. Customize your meal! Select three proteins as single or double portions, three marinades, and rice portion. Includes Miso Soup, White Rice, and a Set Salad.
Gyu-Combo: 2 Choice Of Protein US$15.00
The closest you can get to the Gyu-Kaku yakiniku experience without grilling the meat yourself. Customize your meal! Select two proteins as single or double portions, two marinades, and rice portion. Includes Miso Soup, White Rice, and a Set Salad.

Gyu-Kaku Gear
Yakiniku T-Shirt US$25.00
Show your love of Japanese BBQ with this Yakiniku t-shirt. Yakiniku means grilled meat and is the name for the type of cuisine offered at Gyu-Kaku. Only available in black.
Irasshaimase! T-Shirt US$25.00
Irasshaimase! is the greeting that all guests hear when they enter Gyu-Kaku. It means "Welcome!" and it also means that you are about to enjoy some delicious Japanese BBQ! Only available in black.
Beef Cuts Cow Map T-Shirt US$25.00
Never forget which part of the cow your Gyu-Kaku beef comes from with this t-shirt! Only available in black.

Salads & Veggies
Edamame US$5.50
Steamed Japanese soybeans. Lightly salted.
Spicy Addicting Cucumber US$6.95
Fresh cucumbers in Crunchy Garlic Chili Oil with a dash of Shio Tare, sesame oil, and sesame seeds.
Napa Kimchi US$6.50
Spicy, pickled Napa cabbage kimchi
Gyu-Kaku Salad US$9.95
Mixed greens, sliced cucumber, cherry tomatoes, and diced red bell pepper. Topped with a boiled egg (sliced), shredded daikon radish, and shredded cabbage. Served with Gyu-Kaku Dressing on the side.
Yuzu Shishito Peppers US$8.45
Fried shishito chili peppers in our Japanese yuzu citrus sauce. Almost always mild.

Drinks
Coke Can US$1.95
12 oz. Can of Coke
Sprite Can US$1.95
12 oz. Can of Sprite
Diet Coke Can US$1.95
12 oz. Can of Diet Coke
Red Bull Sugar Free US$5.00
Red Bull Yellow Edition US$5.00
Red Bull Energy Drink US$5.00

Gyu For All!
MEGA Beef Sukiyaki Fried Rice US$30.45
A TRIPLE SERVING of our Crowd Favorite: Sukiyaki Fried Rice with Beef. Serves 3-5 people. Our signature thin-sliced Sukiyaki-marinated beef stir-fried with white rice, egg yolk, mushrooms, and sliced onions. Topped with diced red bell peppers, chopped green Onions, and sesame seeds.
Gyu-Family Meal For All US$80.00
We have put together some of our fan favorites to create a well-balance meal that feeds four. Substitutions respectfully declined. Includes: 1x Gyu-Combo with 7 oz Yaki-shabu Beef in Miso, 1x Gyu-Combo with 7 oz Toro Beef in Sweet Soy Tare, 1x Beef Sukiyaki Fried Rice, 1x Garlic Shoyu Chicken Noodles, 1x Black Pepper Wings, 1x Fried Pork Gyoza, 1x Gyu-Kaku Salad, 1x Edamame, and 1x Napa Kimchi
MEGA Garlic Shoyu Chicken Noodles US$30.45
A TRIPLE SERVING of our Crowd Favorite: Mega Garlic Noodles with Chicken. Serves 3-5 people. Thick Japanese noodles stir-fried with chicken, sliced garlic, butter, and soy sauce. Topped with diced red bell peppers, chopped green onions, and sesame seeds.

Gyu-Ramen
Spicy Beef Ramen US$13.00
Gyu-Kaku original recipe: Japanese BBQ meets Ramen! Rich kalbi beef soup and medium thickness ramen noodles topped with thin-sliced beef, boiled egg, green onions, spinach, daikon radish, and sesame seeds. Ramen noodles and hot soup are packaged separately to maintain their maximum deliciousness. Please reheat soup in the microwave (if necessary) and pour over noodles.
Goma Negi Shio Ramen US$13.00
Beef and shio-based soup with medium-thick ramen noodles and thick braised pork belly Kakuni chashu. Toppings also include boiled egg, green onion, and sesame seeds. Ramen noodles and hot soup are packaged separately to maintain their maximum deliciousness. Please reheat soup in the microwave (if necessary) and pour over noodles.
Tonkotsu Ramen US$13.00
Our Tonkotsu pork bone ramen comes with chunky, fatty braised pork belly Kakuni chashu and is topped with hard-boiled egg, chopped green onions, diced red bell peppers, and sesame seeds. Ramen noodles and hot soup are packaged separately to maintain their maximum deliciousness. Please reheat soup in the microwave (if necessary) and pour over noodles.

Extra Sauces
Sweet Soy Sauce Bottle (12 Oz) US$7.50
Enjoy our original Sweet Soy Sauce at home! Use it on your delivery/takeout order or bring a Japanese flair to your next backyard BBQ! Soy sauce, pear juice, and ginger are three of the secret ingredient that we can share with you. Only available at Gyu-Kaku. Gluten Free
Spicy Jalapeno Miso Sauce US$0.40
Rich miso sauce brings an umami bass note to a fiery hot jalapeno chili sauce. Only available at Gyu-Kaku! Photo is meant for image purposes only and does not necessarily depict the amount of sauce that will be provided.
Soy Sauce US$0.00
Regular soy sauce. Photo is meant for image purposes only and does not necessarily depict the amount of sauce that will be provided.
Gyu-Kaku Salad Dressing US$0.40
Our famous miso and sesame based salad dressing. Only available at Gyu-Kaku. Photo is meant for image purposes only and does not necessarily depict the amount of sauce that will be provided. Photo is meant for image purposes only and does not necessarily depict the amount of sauce that will be provided.
Hot & Spicy Sauce Bottle (12 Oz) US$7.50
Enjoy our original Hot & Spicy Sauce at home! Use it on your delivery/takeout order or bring a Japanese flair to your next backyard BBQ! Our mildly spicy Japanese BBQ dipping sauce. Only available at Gyu-Kaku. Gluten Free
Sesame Miso Dressing Bottle (12 Oz) US$7.50
Enjoy our original Sesame Miso Dressing at home! Use it on your delivery/takeout order or bring a Japanese flair to your salad and veggies! Only available at Gyu-Kaku. Gluten Free
Sweet Chili Sauce US$0.00
A mildly spicy sauce perfect for dipping spring rolls or fried cheese wontons. Photo is meant for image purposes only and does not necessarily depict the amount of sauce that will be provided.
Hot & Spicy Sauce US$0.40
Our mildly spicy Japanese BBQ dipping sauce. Only available at Gyu-Kaku. Photo is meant for image purposes only and does not necessarily depict the amount of sauce that will be provided.
Chili Mayo US$0.40
Our housemixed sauce features Japanese mayo and chili sauce. Photo is meant for image purposes only and does not necessarily depict the amount of sauce that will be provided.
3 Gyu-Kaku Bottle Bundle (12oz Ea) US$20.00
Select 3 Bottles.
Japanese Mayo US$0.00
Iconic Japanese mayo. Delicious with fried chicken karaage and takoyaki. Photo is meant for image purposes only and does not necessarily depict the amount of sauce that will be provided.
Ponzu Sauce US$0.40
Our citrus soy sauce-based Japanese BBQ dipping sauce. Only available at Gyu-Kaku. Photo is meant for image purposes only and does not necessarily depict the amount of sauce that will be provided.
Sweet Soy Tare US$0.40
Soy sauce, pear juice, and ginger are three of the secret ingredient that we can share with you. Only available at Gyu-Kaku. Photo is meant for image purposes only and does not necessarily depict the amount of sauce that will be provided.
Yuzu Aioli Sauce US$0.40
Our housemixed sauce features Japanese mayo and yuzu citrus sauce. Photo is meant for image purposes only and does not necessarily depict the amount of sauce that will be provided.

Gyu-Kaku Japanese BBQ Details

Service options
No-contact delivery
Delivery
Takeaway
Dine-in

Highlights
Fast service
Great cocktails

Popular for
Lunch
Dinner

Accessibility
Wheelchair-accessible car park
Wheelchair-accessible entrance
Wheelchair-accessible seating
Wheelchair-accessible toilet

Offerings
Alcohol
All you can eat
Beer
Cocktails
Coffee
Comfort food
Happy-hour drinks
Happy-hour food
Healthy options
Late-night food
Small plates
Spirits
Vegetarian options
Wine

Dining options
Lunch
Dinner
Dessert
Seating
Table service

Amenities
Bar on site
Toilet

Atmosphere
Casual
Trendy

Crowd
Family friendly
Groups
Tourists
University students

Planning
Dinner reservations recommended
Accepts reservations

Payments
Credit cards
Debit cards
NFC mobile payments

Children
Good for kids

Parking
Free parking lot
Paid parking lot
Parking

Gyu-Kaku Japanese BBQ Photos

Gyu-Kaku Japanese BBQ Location

Gyu-Kaku Japanese BBQ

North Carolina Mecklenburg County Charlotte Charlotte center city East Brooklyn Village Avenue

650 E Brooklyn Vlg Ave unit a, Charlotte, NC 28202, USA

Gyu-Kaku Japanese BBQ Reviews

Jorge was my server and he was amazing very knowledgeable about everything! He really made my first time a great experience.. the food was delicious well marinated. The atmosphere was very cozy i really enjoyed my self i will be going back
January 08 · Gail Whitmore
Gyu-Kaku in Charlotte delivers an incredible dining experience with its flavorful fusion of Japanese cuisine and Korean BBQ, all brought to life by a team of Chinese American restaurateurs—an ironic but impressive twist! The food is undoubtedly the star here, with high-quality meats, rich marinades, and an interactive grilling experience that makes every meal memorable. I’d easily rate the food a solid 5 stars.The staff is another highlight—attentive, friendly, and efficient, ensuring that guests have a great experience from start to finish.However, the restaurant itself could use some TLC. The booth seats are well-worn, and the restrooms leave much to be desired. A little renovation would go a long way in elevating the overall experience.Despite these minor drawbacks, Gyu-Kaku is still a great spot for anyone craving delicious BBQ with bold flavors. If they refresh the space to match the quality of the food and service, it would be an easy 5-star experience across the board.(Rating: 3 stars overall, 5 stars for food and staff)
February 23 · Juan Velazquez
Gyu-Kaku was delicious and our servers were charming and professional. They had a variety of meats and menus that was a bit overwhelming but they helped us navigate it all and they gave their recommendations. When we left, I accidentally left my sunglasse. One of the servers chased me down to give it back. I appreciate her and am very thankful! Would come back again.
April 02 · Frank S
Great Mother’s Day experience. This was our first visit but it will not be our last. Our waiter explained everything perfectly and even though it was one of their busiest days of the year he made sure we were well taken care of.
May 12 · Mike Lewis
Oh my… I have always had the love for GyuKaku wherever it is lol.We came here for our anniversary, and asked one of the server to read the note I left from the booking website. And they literally put an effort to make it. 🥹Ok, let’s talk about the meat. They. Are. AMAZING!! It’s no doubt. ( but if you have been to Gyukaku from other countries, don’t expect they have beef wagyu hahah) but still, I love the cuts and everything. The sauces? Yassshhhh never dissapoint me! The service? Oh, they are GREAT!Please add Takoyaki into the AYCE list. I would have those balls a lot in my belly.🥹
May 06 · Dessy Amalya