843 Korean BBQ & Sushi House in Charleston: What to Expect

A Korean BBQ and sushi spot in downtown Charleston

843 Korean BBQ & Sushi House is located in downtown Charleston and serves table-top Korean barbecue alongside sushi and other Korean dishes. The restaurant's name references South Carolina's area code, and the space is built around the interactive dining experience of grilling meat at your own table — a centerpiece of Korean BBQ culture that turns a meal into an event.

The restaurant operates as a full-service establishment where you order from a menu, receive raw or marinated proteins and vegetables, and cook them on a built-in grill embedded in your table. This format means your meal unfolds over time, with courses arriving as you finish each round, and the pace is entirely up to you and your party.

Key Takeaways

• 843 Korean BBQ & Sushi House offers table-top grilling where you cook your own meat and vegetables at your table, making the meal interactive and social.
• The menu includes both Korean BBQ proteins (beef, pork, chicken) and a separate sushi selection, so diners with different preferences can order from the same table.
• The downtown Charleston location makes it accessible for visitors exploring the historic district or residents looking for a dinner destination in the city center.
• Table-top grilling means the meal takes longer than a traditional restaurant service, so plan for a leisurely evening rather than a quick bite.

What the table-top grilling experience includes

When you sit down at 843, your table has a built-in grill surface at its center. The server brings your order — typically marinated beef short ribs (galbi), bulgogi (marinated beef), pork belly, chicken, or seafood — along with a selection of vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, and onions. You control the heat and cooking time, which means you can char the meat as much or as little as you prefer.

The meal comes with banchan, the small side dishes that accompany Korean meals: kimchi, pickled vegetables, rice, and other accompaniments. These arrive at the table and stay throughout your meal. Many diners eat the banchan while waiting for their grilled items to cook, or between rounds of meat.

The interactive nature of table-top grilling means you are not eating alone — the experience is designed for groups, and the shared cooking and eating rhythm creates a natural social flow. First-time diners sometimes worry about technique, but the staff can show you how to manage the grill and when to flip or remove items.

The sushi menu and non-grilling options

843 also serves sushi rolls and nigiri, which arrive prepared from the kitchen rather than cooked at your table. This means if your party includes someone who does not want to participate in table-top grilling, they can order sushi and eat while others grill, or you can mix both experiences in a single meal.

The sushi menu typically includes classic rolls (California, spicy tuna, Philadelphia) and house specials, though the exact offerings may vary. Because sushi is prepared in advance, it arrives faster than grilled items, which can be useful if your group has different appetites or timing preferences.

Pricing and what to budget

Korean BBQ restaurants typically charge per protein rather than per plate, and prices vary based on the cut and type of meat. Beef short ribs usually cost more than pork belly or chicken. Sushi rolls are priced individually or as part of combination orders. Side dishes and rice are included with BBQ orders.

Because you control portions and can order as much or as little as you want, the final bill depends entirely on how many rounds you order and which proteins you choose. A meal for two can range from moderate to expensive depending on selections, and groups often find the experience more economical when shared across multiple people.

Timing and reservations

Table-top grilling takes longer than traditional restaurant service because each course cooks at your table. Plan for at least an hour and a half to two hours for a full meal, longer if your party is large or you order multiple rounds. This is not a quick lunch destination — it is an experience meal.

During peak hours (Friday and Saturday evenings, lunch on weekends), the restaurant can fill up. Calling ahead to ask about wait times or making a reservation is a practical step, especially if you have a specific time in mind or are bringing a larger group.

Location and parking in downtown Charleston

843 Korean BBQ & Sushi House is situated in downtown Charleston, which means it is walkable from the historic district, nearby hotels, and other restaurants and shops. If you are driving, downtown parking includes street parking (metered and time-limited), public parking garages, and some private lots. Parking availability varies by time of day and season, so arriving early or using a parking app can save time.

The downtown location also means the restaurant is close to other attractions if you are planning an evening out — you could visit a nearby gallery, shop, or bar before or after your meal.

What to know before you go

Wear clothes you do not mind getting a slight smell from — the grill produces smoke and the aroma clings to fabric. Some diners change clothes or plan to go home afterward rather than to another venue. The restaurant may provide aprons, but checking ahead is worth doing if you are concerned.

If you have never done table-top grilling, do not hesitate to ask the staff for guidance. They are accustomed to first-time diners and can walk you through the process. The grill surface gets hot, so be mindful of your hands and keep children supervised if they are at the table.

Dietary restrictions are manageable at a Korean BBQ restaurant because you can see exactly what you are cooking and can request modifications. If you have allergies or specific dietary needs, mentioning them when you order gives the kitchen a chance to advise on safe options.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to cook the meat myself, or can the kitchen do it?

Table-top grilling is the core experience at 843, so the expectation is that you cook at your table. However, if you are uncomfortable with this or have mobility concerns, the staff can often assist or cook portions for you. It is worth calling ahead or mentioning your situation when you arrive so they can accommodate you.

Can I order just sushi and skip the BBQ?

Yes. The sushi menu is separate, and you can order only sushi if you prefer. This is a good option if someone in your party does not want to participate in table-top grilling or if you simply prefer sushi to BBQ.

What should I order if it is my first time?

Beef short ribs (galbi) and pork belly are popular starting points because they are flavorful and forgiving to cook. Ordering a mix of proteins and vegetables lets you try different things. The staff can recommend portions based on your party size if you ask.

Is there a dress code?

No formal dress code, but keep in mind that grill smoke and cooking odors will linger on your clothes. Casual dining attire is standard, and many diners wear clothes they do not mind getting a smell from or plan to change afterward.

How long does a typical meal take?

Plan for at least 90 minutes to two hours. The pace depends on how many rounds you order and how quickly you cook, but table-top grilling is a leisurely experience by design. It is not suited for a quick lunch between appointments.