Um Yong Baek Expands with Joong San: A New Beef-Focused KBBQ Haven in Singapore's CBD

If you're a fan of Singapore's buzzing Korean food scene, you've probably queued (or tried to queue) at Um Yong Baek, the wildly popular spot famous for its authentic Busan-style pork soup rice and three-way aged pork BBQ. Known for its no-frills authenticity, soul-warming lunches, and sizzling dinners, Um Yong Baek has been a CBD staple since 2022, with outlets drawing crowds for their Jeju-style grilled pork and hearty dwaeji gukbap.

Now, the team behind this Korean powerhouse is flipping the script with a brand-new concept: Joong San, a dedicated Korean BBQ joint specialising in premium beef cuts. Opened in late 2025 just across the street from the original Boon Tat Street location (at 28 Stanley Street), Joong San is the perfect complement to its pork-loving sibling.

Why Joong San is a Game-Changer for Beef Lovers

While Um Yong Baek shines with its meticulously aged pork belly and collar, Joong San turns the spotlight on beef. Think tender, flavourful cuts grilled to perfection over charcoal.

Highlights from the dinner menu include:

- Andong-style marinated galbi: Garlicky, succulent short ribs that are a crowd favourite.

- Eonyang-style beef bulgogi: Thin slices in a subtly sweet marinade, pan-seared then finished on the grill.

- Assorted beef platter (sogogi modeum): Perfect for groups wanting variety.

- Beef yukhoe: A refreshing beef tartare with egg yolk, marinated mushrooms, and wraps. Sweet, velvety, and surprisingly approachable.

What sets Joong San apart? The banchan (side dishes). Expect innovative touches like house-made truffle mustard seeds served in a playful caviar tin, alongside classic kimchi varieties (try the yuja baek kimchi or gat kimchi for pairing with your grilled meats). Staff often grill and explain pairings, elevating the experience.

For contrast, here's a quick look at how the two spots differ:

Aspect	Um Yong Baek	Joong San
Specialty	Three-way aged pork & pork soup rice	Premium beef cuts
Lunch Focus	Busan-style gukbap & stews	Soft tofu jjigae, naengmyeon, noodles
Dinner Vibe	Jeju-style pork BBQ	Charcoal-grilled beef BBQ
Unique Banchan	Pickled veggies (garlic shoots, etc.)	Truffle mustard "caviar" & more
Location	Boon Tat St & Telok Ayer	Stanley Street (opposite original)

The interior keeps that cosy, authentic Korean feel. Think embedded grills, dim lighting, and booths perfect for groups.

Final Thoughts: Worth the Hype?

With Um Yong Baek already recognised as one of the top Korean restaurants globally (even honored by South Korea), Joong San builds on that legacy by offering a beef-centric alternative in the same neighborhood. If you're craving high-quality KBBQ without the all-you-can-eat gimmicks, this is your new go-to. Reservations are a must. Book early to avoid the inevitable queues!

Address: 28 Stanley Street, #01-01, Singapore 068737

Opening Hours: Typically 11:30am–10:30pm (check for updates)

Photos: Joong San