Insa

Tucked away in Brooklyn’s Gowanus neighborhood, Insa offers South Brooklyn residents a compelling reason to skip the trek to K-Town when Korean BBQ cravings hit. This spacious, energetic spot has carved out its niche as the go-to destination for groups looking to gather around sizzling tabletop grills without the Manhattan commute.

The menu here strikes a balance between traditional Korean BBQ and crowd-pleasing dishes that work even if your crew isn’t set on grilling. While the BBQ selection is more focused than what you’d find in Koreatown, the quality holds up nicely—especially the marbled galbi and pork belly, which the attentive staff will expertly grill for you. Beyond the grill, the fried chicken wings are genuinely impressive specimens, arriving with tips intact and enough crispy real estate to anchor an entire meal. The fried broccoli in its puffy rice flour batter and sweet soy glaze makes a convincing argument for why we should all be frying more vegetables.

What sets Insa apart is its versatility and accessibility. Last-minute reservations are typically available, making it an easy choice for spontaneous gatherings. Whether you’re splitting a few plates of fried chicken and pitchers of beer with friends or throwing a full-on birthday celebration with private karaoke rooms in the back, the space accommodates both scenarios with equal ease. The banchan spread includes a particularly addictive cuttlefish jerky that disappears faster than it should.

For Brooklyn residents seeking quality Korean food without crossing the river, Insa delivers a reliably good time. It may not be the absolute pinnacle of Korean BBQ in the city, but it offers something equally valuable: a fun, flexible spot where groups of any size can eat well and have a great night out.