Maple Tree House Itaewon – Full Review with Menu, Prices & Tips

Sizzling beef and sweet potato slices over hot charcoal

When you come to Korea, experiencing Korean BBQ isn’t just an option; it’s practically a rite of passage. Indeed, it’s the quintessential dining experience, and for good reason. Today, I’m thrilled to tell you about a place that truly elevates this tradition to an art form: Maple Tree House Itaewon. As someone who lives in this incredible country and loves showing off its best bits, I can confidently say this spot is a must-visit. My recent trip there was nothing short of spectacular, delivering on high expectations from the moment I arrived.

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Your Visit to Maple Tree House Itaewon: Location & Hours

Getting to Maple Tree House Itaewon is incredibly easy, making your delicious BBQ experience truly seamless. It’s located at the 2nd Floor, Hamilton Hotel Annex, 26 Itaewon-ro 27ga-gil, Yongsan-gu, Seoul (Itaewon-dong). This spot is right in the heart of Itaewon, a vibrant hub welcoming to all visitors.

If you’re using public transport, it’s a breeze! Simply hop on Seoul Subway Line 6 and get off at Itaewon Station, then take Exit 1. From there, it’s a very short walk to the Hamilton Hotel Annex. Seriously, you can’t miss it! This prime location means you spend less time navigating and more time anticipating your delicious meal.

Exterior view of Maple Tree House Itaewon covered in green glass bottles

Maple Tree House Itaewon is open daily from 11:30 AM to 10:00 PM, with the last order at 9:30 PM. However, please note that Monday to Friday they have a break time from 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM. This means the last lunch order is at 2:30 PM. On weekends (Saturday and Sunday), you’re in luck; there’s no break time, so you can enjoy their delicious BBQ continuously from open to close, with the last order at 9:30 PM. Always a good idea to check their official website before you go, just to be sure. Trust me, you don’t want to show up hungry during their afternoon break!

Stepping Inside Maple Tree House Itaewon: A Modern Oasis with a Touch of Nature

Dining space with birch trees and soju bottle wall at Maple Tree House Itaewon

Despite its name, “Maple Tree House” (단풍나무집 in Korean means “Maple Tree House”), the interior is beautifully adorned with birch trees, creating an unexpectedly fresh and refined ambiance. Consequently, it felt like stepping into a serene, modern forest. This unique twist was both visually appealing and incredibly calming.

Dining area with copper grills and modern Korean design

What really caught my eye were the sleek, copper-covered tables. These tables had matching copper ventilation ducts hanging directly overhead. Importantly, these aren’t just functional; they are a key design element. They add to the upscale, almost wine bar-like atmosphere. The best part? These powerful vents whisk away all the smoke and cooking smells. Therefore, you can enjoy your BBQ without worrying about your clothes smelling like grilled meat afterward! That’s a huge win in my book.

Table setting at Maple Tree House Itaewon’s window seat

The tables are also spaced out nicely. This gives you a sense of privacy. Furthermore, if you visit in the evening, they often open the windows. This lets in a cool breeze, making for an even more pleasant dining experience. It’s the perfect blend of urban chic and natural tranquility.

Wall of soju bottles displayed at Maple Tree House Itaewon

Another amazing aspect, especially for international visitors like you, is the diverse crowd. You’ll see both Koreans and foreigners enjoying meals side-by-side. This speaks volumes about its global appeal. Plus, the staff are fluent in English. The menu, moreover, is fully bilingual (Korean and English). This means no language barriers, just smooth, easy ordering and fantastic service. It’s a huge relief if you’re traveling with friends from abroad!

A Feast for the Senses: Unforgettable Korean BBQ & More!

Full Korean BBQ setup at the table, ready to begin grilling

Now, let’s talk about the food. Maple Tree House lives up to its reputation for serving only the finest quality meats and a delightful array of traditional Korean dishes.

Star of the Show: The Meat!

Raw beef platter ready for grilling, served with onion and sweet potato

1++ Aged Hanwoo Sirloin: This is their signature dish, and for good reason. “Hanwoo” is Korean native beef, and the 1++ grade is the absolute pinnacle. This 150g serving of sirloin costs ₩58,000. The marbling on this sirloin is incredible. It literally melts in your mouth with an explosion of rich, savory flavor. I can confidently say its quality is top-tier.

Hanwoo steak on charcoal grill at Maple Tree House Itaewon

Charcoal-grilled sirloin sizzling at Maple Tree House Itaewon

Medium-rare grilled beef with fresh wasabi for dipping

Maple Galbi (Marinated Short Ribs): If you love a good marinade, this is it. These U.S. beef ribs, priced at ₩59,500, are marinated in a special sauce. Grilled over charcoal, they are so tender that the meat practically falls off the bone. Sweet, savory, and utterly delicious!
Jeju Black Pork Belly (Heuk-Ogyeopsal): Not just beef! They also offer amazing pork, including the famous Jeju Black Pork Belly. This 150g serving of Korean pork costs ₩16,900. It’s wonderfully chewy yet flavorful, with that distinct charcoal aroma. I love pairing it with some pickled perilla leaves or ssamjang (Korean dipping sauce) for a match made in heaven.

Jeju black pork belly and pork neck, ready to grill at Maple Tree House Itaewon

Maple Bulgogi Set: For a classic Korean dish, their Bulgogi, made with U.S. beef, is moist, tender, and perfectly prepared. This is a set menu available for two or more people. It’s priced at ₩19,500 per person, making it a great hearty option.

Bulgogi set menu simmering at the table in Maple Tree House Itaewon

Other Meats: Beyond these, they also have a wide selection. This includes Beef Brisket, Marinated Beef Ribs, Beef Rib Finger, Thinly Sliced Beef Brisket, and even chicken. Thus, there’s something for every palate.

Beyond BBQ: Sides & Stews

Traditional galbitang stew served at Maple Tree House Itaewon

Alongside the amazing meat, you’ll find a variety of other Korean dishes. Consider the Wang Galbitang (King Rib Soup), which features ribs so tender they truly “fall off the bone.” You’ll also get a generous spread of unlimited side dishes (banchan) – fresh kimchi, savory tofu salad, and more. All are clean, fresh, and perfectly complement your grilled feast. I found them to be of excellent quality, enhancing the main meal. You can also enjoy delightful additions, such as Kimchi Pancake (₩9,500) and Japchae (Korean glass noodles, ₩11,900).

Tender galbi on rice at Maple Tree House Itaewon

A Drink for Every Mood at Maple Tree House Itaewon

The beverage list at Maple Tree House Itaewon is just as impressive as its food menu. They have an extensive wine list, ranging from house wines to premium reds and whites like Montes Alpha and 1865 Malbec. This truly cements that “wine bar” feel. However, if you’re looking for something local, you can enjoy Soju (₩5,000), Makgeolli (rice wine), or even craft beers like Jeju Wit Ale (330cc draft for ₩8,900) on tap. Popular international lagers are also available. They even offer whiskies, vodkas, and highballs!

Yes, it’s certainly not the cheapest BBQ place. Nonetheless, the quality of the meat, especially the Hanwoo, truly justifies the price. I felt I was paying for a premium experience. It offered top-notch ingredients, and the unlimited, high-quality side dishes were a definite bonus!

The Secret Ingredient: Unbeatable Service at Maple Tree House Itaewon!

Charcoal fire glowing red beneath the copper grill at Maple Tree House Itaewon

One of the biggest reasons Maple Tree House Itaewon stands out is their incredible service. The staff actually grill the meat for you right at your table! This is especially fantastic for premium cuts like the Hanwoo sirloin. They cook it to perfection, ensuring every bite is amazing. Moreover, it means you can relax, chat with your companions, and truly enjoy the meal without worrying about overcooking (or undercooking!) your precious meat. The meat cooked over their excellent charcoal grill is simply divine, locking in all those juices.

Meat grilled over charcoal at Maple Tree House Itaewon’s copper grill

From my experience, the staff were incredibly kind and attentive. Their customer-focused approach truly shines through. They patiently waited for latecomers and welcomed guests just before closing. As I mentioned, their excellent English skills are a huge plus for foreign diners. This personalized, fluent service makes a big difference. It allows you to fully immerse yourself in Korean BBQ culture without any communication worries. I was genuinely impressed by their dedication to service.

Grilled Hanwoo beef with sea salt at Maple Tree House Itaewon

This hands-on, expert grilling service, combined with genuine friendliness, transforms a meal. It becomes a truly memorable dining experience. It not only justifies the price point but also makes Maple Tree House Itaewon an ideal spot for special occasions, business dinners, or for anyone experiencing Korean BBQ for the first time.

My Recommendation: A Must-Visit for Premium Korean BBQ

Maple Tree House Itaewon is undeniably a top-tier destination for exceptional Korean BBQ. From the premium meat quality and sophisticated ambiance to the expert, friendly service (they grill the meat for you!), every detail contributes to an unforgettable dining experience. Ultimately, it’s my absolute top recommendation in Itaewon for anyone seeking the best of Korean BBQ. It’s perfect for a special meal or impressing international guests.