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Embark on a culinary adventure that fuses the vibrant essence of three diverse cultures at Dae Gee Korean BBQ—a newly revamped gem nestled at the lively junction of Venustiano Carranza and Ignacio L. Vallarta in Puerto Vallarta.
With a unique blend of US, Mexican, and Korean influences, this one-of-a-kind bar/restaurant beckons passersby with its eye-catching red facade adorned with whimsical white symbols, prominently featuring the beloved image of a pig—a playful emblem of this dynamic space. As 2024 unfolds, prepare to tantalize your taste buds and immerse yourself in an unparalleled dining experience that promises a delightful celebration of flavors and cultures.
The establishment was developed in two phases. The first being the bar named Express Street Food by Dae Gee, which is located at street level, and the second being the restaurant named Dae Gee Korean BBQ, which is located upstairs. Both are an offshoot of the well known Denver restaurant Dae Gee Korean BBQ founded by Joseph Kim.
Kim discovered Puerto Vallarta years ago on vacation, and fell in love with the local culture. Joseph Kim eventually decided to open a location here, as a way to celebrate his Korean heritage. The restaurant upstairs opens for Dinner at 5 p.m., and closes at Midnight. It is highly recommended to arrive at the latest by 10:30 p.m., as those coming to enjoy the all you can eat Korean BBQ will want to allow time to enjoy the full experience.
The street level bar has large video screens located on the inside and outside of the building playing eclectic music videos and a diverse range of US Sports. Entering the bar from Ignacio L. Vallarta, open air windows face Venustiano Carranza.
The room is large, but inviting. High top tables are placed throughout, with the main attractions being the fun red and white columns in the center of the room, and the well stocked bar, which sits in front of a large window opening up views of the sidewalk and passerby just outside.
I had the pleasure of meeting the manager of both venues, Alexander Plazola, on a recent afternoon, as the sun streamed in from Venustiano Carranza.
He proudly mentioned one of the highlights of Express Street Food by Dae Gee are the amazing cocktails infused with Soju, a Korean liquor made from rice. Three options that Alexander spoke highly of include; Pop Me!, which combines; Soju, green tea, and tonic. Sojukilla, which pairs; Soju and Tequila, and finally, Washed Rice Manhattan, which is a great combination of; Bourbon, Vermouth, Soju, and sushi rice.
We turned briefly to a special dish that is available at Express Street Food by Dae Gee. It is named Birriamen, which is a rare combination of Mexican culture food with Korean ramen noodles.
As I concluded my visit, Alexander wanted to express the excitement everyone at Dae Gee has for the coming year, “we want to share the Korean culture with locals and tourists alike, by combining a taste of Korea, infused with a Mexican flair.” Come soon to enjoy the amazing flavors of Korea, on the Mexican Pacific.
Dae Gee Korean BBQ
Ignacio L. Vallarta 290, Zona Romantica, Emiliano Zapata, Puerto Vallarta 48300
Instagram: Click here
Hours; Open Daily 11:30am to 12:00am.
Expanded Hours Friday and Saturday 11:30am to 1:00am
Telephone +52 322 208 8891
