When it comes to a delicious Korean BBQ experience, Sae Ma Eul managed to hit all the right spots.
For BBQ lovers looking to try a Korean BBQ in Penang without breaking the bank, Sae Ma Eul Signature on Bagan Jermal is a must-try.
This cozy spot, which offers a Happy Hour Korean Charcoal BBQ Buffet with Unlimited Refills, has quickly become a favorite for locals seeking authentic Korean flavors.
As a fan of sizzling grills and juicy marinated meats, I knew I had to check it out.
Sae Ma Eul Signature feels like a hidden gem.
It’s close to the action but offers a quiet, relaxing vibe—perfect for BBQ lovers like me.
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What Makes Sae Ma Eul So Special?
Korean BBQ isn’t just about the food—it’s an experience.
Sae Ma Eul nails that vibe with its rich, savory aroma with a smoky undertone, meat sizzling on the grill, the clink of metal chopsticks, and a table full of colorful banchan (side dishes).
The atmosphere is cozy, with wooden tables and charcoal grills adding authenticity.
It’s a lively place that excites you for every bite.
Our BBQ Dinner Adventure
We decided to try the Korean Charcoal BBQ Buffet with Unlimited Refills, an all-you-can-eat feast priced reasonably.
Dinner Buffet was RM39+ for adults, RM35+ for seniors, and RM28+ for kids (for 100 minutes).
BBQ Meats Menu
The buffet spread was impressive and had six marinated meats
- Pork Belly
- Spicy Pork Belly 매운 삼겹살
- Lemongrass Chicken 제몬그라스 닭고기
- 채문 닭고기 Spicy Chicken
- Pork Shoulder
- 양념 돼지갈비 Marinated Pork Shoulder
To enhance the experience, the add-on applies to the whole table – ensuring everyone gets to join in the fun.
Best of all, the buffet features self-service, refillable side dishes, and drinks!,
Plus you get Unlimited Ice Cream—a sweet way to wrap up the meal.
Not into meat?
There’s a fresh veggie selection and a wide variety of banchan to load up on.
Sae Ma Eul BBQ Prices
Dinner (5 PM–11 PM)
- RM42+ Per Adult, RM38+ For Senior Citizens (60 Years And Above)
- RM31+ For Kids Under 140cm
- Free For Kids Under 90cm
Happy Hour (11 AM–5 PM)
- RM39+ Per Adult, RM35+ For Senior Citizens (60 Years And Above)
- RM28+ For Kids Under 140cm
- Free For Kids Under 90cm
The buffet includes self-service, refillable side dishes, drinks, and Unlimited Ice Cream—a sweet way to wrap up the meal.
Refillable Banchan
Normally Korean restaurants will serve 6 side dishes known as banchan, meant to be shared.
Some are hot, some are cold, but they all complement the grilled meats beautifully.
The best part?
Sae Ma Eul elevates the experience and make this unlimited refills from the buffet line!
My absolute favorite from their spread was the Korean Macaroni Salad.
It’s creamy, slightly sweet, and addictive.
I couldn’t stop returning for more; honestly, I’d eat it alone!
The self-serve banchan buffet means you can load up to your heart’s content without guilt.
Grill, Chill, and Repeat
The highlight of the meal was the grilling.
There’s something so satisfying about cooking your food on a charcoal grill.
Flipping the meats, hearing that sizzle, and watching each piece reach the perfect char is so appetising.
My friend, a BBQ pro, took charge of the grill, and we were in good hands.
The smoky aroma alone had me salivating, and every bite tasted even better fresh off the grill.
Sae Ma Eul’s staff was fantastic.
Every 30 minutes, they came around to change the grill plates, keeping things clean and ensuring a seamless experience.
Ssambap
Ssambap, or Korean lettuce wraps, are little parcels of joy.
Think of it: bold, seasoned meat, fresh, crisp veggies, and a punchy sauce called *ssamjang*, all bundled up in a leafy wrap.
The word *ssam* means “wrap,” and *bap* means “rice,” but the beauty of Ssambap lies in how endlessly customizable it is.
For my wraps, I went for BBQ bacon—because, let’s be honest, who can say no to bacon?
I added raw onions, garlic slices, and some pickled veggies for that extra zing.
I skipped the rice this time, wanting to save my sugar calories for the creamy Korean macaroni and ice cream I had lined up for later.
It was the perfect balance—flavorful, indulgent, and just what I was craving!
To take things up a notch, we even grilled garlic and onion rings alongside the meats.
The aroma alone was heavenly, and the added smokiness gave everything so much more depth.
Wrapping it all up in crisp lettuce leaves made each bite a burst of fresh, smoky, and savory flavors.
While waiting for the next round of meat, we snacked on freshly fried chive and sweet potato fritters.
They had that golden, crispy perfection that reminded me of Korean garlic chive pancakes (*buchu jeon*).
Flavorful and satisfying, they were the perfect little appetizer while we grilled away.
We also dug into a bowl of spicy *kimchi jjigae* (kimchi stew).
Its comforting tangy flavors paired so well with everything else on the table, adding a bit of fiery kick to the meal.
With the smoky meats, crispy fritters, and that spicy stew all coming together so perfectly, it turned out to be one of the most satisfying dinners I’ve had in a while.
Truly, it’s these little moments of flavor harmony that make a meal unforgettable.
Would I Go Back?
Without a doubt, yes.
Sae Ma Eul isn’t just about the food—the whole experience makes it popular with the locals.
The place is bussin’ with its unlimited refill buffet. Groups of friends and families are enjoying the BBQ and happily eating.
This Korean BBQ restaurant is a must-try for you, a seasoned Korean BBQ lover, or even a first-timer.
Sae Ma Eul Review
The banchans here are fresh, super flavorful, and there’s always plenty to go around—it’s hard to stop at just one helping.
The meats are absolutely on point, well marinated with bold flavours.
With the unlimited refills, you can keep grilling to your heart’s content.
It is the kind of place that just puts you in a good mood as soon as you walk in with the cool vibes.
Added to the dining experience, the staff was attentive, ensuring our meal went smoothly.
Final Word
If you enjoy Korean BBQ or are curious to give it a try, Sae Ma Eul Signature Gurney is a great place sure to satisfy your cravings.
You can consider a dinner outing with family or friends to experience this slice of authentic Korean BBQ in Penang.
If you’re heading there during peak hours, it’s a good idea to book a table to avoid waiting.
Have you tried Sae Ma Eul Signature before?
Or do you have a favorite Korean BBQ restaurant in Penang?
Feel free to share your thoughts in the comments!
Sae Ma Eul Signature Gurney
Address: 20D, Jalan Bagan Jermal, Lorong Bagan Jermal, 10250 Penang
Hours: 11 AM–11 PM daily
Parking: Limited parking is available nearby. For convenience, consider arriving early.
Blog Disclosure: This is a NOT sponsored blog post. All opinions are mine. The write’s friend paid for their meal.
