Downtown Grand Rapids Korean BBQ Karaoke Bar is FINALLY Opening

A new Korean BBQ restaurant and karaoke bar downtown Grand Rapids that had originally been set to open in 2019 has announced an opening date... again.

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Yes, there have been a few false starts for K-ROK, located in the Campau Promenade near Panera and Z's Bar and Grill due to pandemic-related issues.

In July, K-ROK shared to Facebook,

We have an unfortunate update to our Grand Opening Date. Due to Staffing and shipping issues we have to postpone our opening date. Reservation for Karaoke rooms and Waitlist for the restaurant will available on the website very soon. We are so sorry for the delay and thank you for understanding. These days, it’s hard not to overflow with local love. We’re more thankful than ever to be in the best city around, Grand Rapids.

Those eager for an update will be happy to hear, it's finally happening! K-ROK announced their new grand opening date is Thursday, October 28th.

The owners also operate Emonae Korean BBQ on 28th Street in Cascade Township.

According to Wood TV 8  the menu at K-ROK is "expected to include Korean staples bulgogi, kalbi, and dolsot bibimbap, as well as Korean street food such as dukpokee."

You'll also be able to cook up your meal right at your table as each will have an inlaid LED grill! In terms of drinks, K-ROK will serve a variety of Korean beers, soju, and Korean soju cocktails.

I've never had soju, so I was curious about it! According to The Spruce Eats, its ABV varies from 16–45%:

Soju is a distilled spirit from Korea that's traditionally made from rice. It may be made from sweet potato, barley, tapioca, or wheat or any combination of the ingredients. he clear alcoholic beverage is sometimes called Korean vodka because of its neutral flavor. Though it's long been a favorite drink in Korea and is a perfect pairing for Korean cuisine, soju is enjoying increased popularity in the West.

 

Sold! I'm ready to try soju - and all the yummy food it sounds like K-ROK will be serving up! Check out their menu here.

In terms of karaoke, K-ROK says you can pick from thousands of songs, from the top 40, K-Pop, and everything in between to perform. Their Karaoke Room reservations are for 2 hour blocks and require a $100 deposit.

If you're interested in working there, K-ROK is currently hiring servers and bartenders.