NON-HALAL
This fascination with all-things Korean has naturally extended to the dining table, most prominently in the form of Korean BBQ: these succulent cuts of marinated meat, sizzling over hot grills, have delighted local diners for years.
New dining outlet Gamtan Meat Shop aims to take this experience a step further, remixing the familiar Korean BBQ with an omakase twist, while evoking traditional Korean flavours and atmosphere.
“Malaysian diners already love Korean food and BBQ, but we felt there was room to showcase a different side of Korean dining culture: cuts rarely highlighted in local restaurants, presented with the craftsmanship of master butchers,” Gamtan Meat Shop founder Ethan Kim told FMT Lifestyle.
“Gamtan is Malaysia’s first pork-focused Korean BBQ concept, serving dishes rarely seen in the market. These offerings, combined with our ‘90s Seoul-inspired interiors, create a dining experience that feels both deeply authentic and refreshingly new.”
The restaurant first opened in Teluk Ayer, Singapore, in November last year, where it quickly established itself as a destination for discerning diners seeking a refined take on Korean BBQ.
Its premier outlet located in Desa Sri Hartamas here feels like being transported back to a bygone era, with its interior inspired by the liveliness of ‘90s Korean BBQ joints.
Matte stainless steel, aged wood and exposed brick combined with nostalgic details like newspaper wrapping, create an environment that feels rich and lived-in.
The omakase experience at Gamtan Meat Shop is expressed through their signature Butcher’s Cut, a curated pork set showcasing premium selections such as the Marbling Cut and Snow Cut.
Each is chosen for its distinctive texture and flavour, and are not commonly featured in Malaysian Korean BBQ.
“What makes the experience special is the guided flow of the meal. Our team grills each cut at the table, pairs it with the right condiment, and presents it course by course.
“Much like a sushi omakase, it’s about contrast, balance, and storytelling – but here, expressed through the lively and communal spirit of Korean BBQ,” Kim said.
Kim hinted that more premium items would be introduced to their menu soon, such as King Galbi and Korean hanwoo beef.
Their current menu consists of many delicious Korean specialties. One highlight is the Truffle Potato Pancake: pairing the high and mighty truffle with the humble potato may seem an unusual choice, but these two disparate flavours come together in a savoury and satisfying marriage.
Another treat was the Sotbap, a Korean dish not often seen here. This claypot-style dish (available with pork, beef or eel) was fragrant and comforting, its rice infused with a smoky depth from its pot, and enhanced by a flavourful sauce. This paired well with a hot and hearty bowl of Gamtan Soybean Stew.
Also try the Daepa Makchang that consists of thick-cut pork intestine which is oven-seared, then charcoal-grilled for a tender bite and rich smoky flavour. Servings are limited to 20 per day.
The crowning jewel here, of course, is the Butcher’s Cut: enjoy this tender and delectable selection of prime pork cuts with a varied selection of dips, sauces and condiments, including herring roe and wasabi, seed jeotgal, Maldon salt, ssamjang, and tonkatsu with panko breadcrumbs.
Overall, its inventive menu, attentive service, and nostalgic Seoul-inspired settings combine to make the Gamtan Meat Shop a memorable dining spot, deftly blending tradition with innovation.
If you’re a Korean food lover looking for something authentic and new, this newcomer is definitely worth a visit.
Gamtan Meat Shop (NON-HALAL)
74, Jalan 27/70a
Desa Sri Hartamas
50480 Kuala Lumpur
Business Hours: 5pm-12am (Closed Monday)
Follow Gamtan Meat Shop on Instagram.