Kim Jong Grillin’ Portland: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Comprehensive Guide

Date: 15/06/2025

Introduction

Kim Jong Grillin’ is a standout in Portland’s dynamic food truck scene, renowned for its bold reinterpretations of Korean BBQ and its pivotal role in shaping the city’s culinary identity. Founded by chef Han Ly Hwang over a decade ago, this celebrated food truck fuses authentic Korean flavors with local ingredients and innovative techniques. Signature dishes like the Bulgogi Bibim Box and Kimchi Fried Rice have drawn acclaim from both locals and national food critics, and the truck’s presence at the Cart Blocks Pod makes it a must-visit destination for food lovers. This detailed guide covers everything you need to know—including visiting hours, menu highlights, location, accessibility, and insider tips—to ensure a memorable culinary experience at Kim Jong Grillin’. For further reading and the latest updates, check out Portland Monthly and Best Food Trucks.

Table of Contents

Culinary Significance of Kim Jong Grillin’

Kim Jong Grillin’ has redefined Korean BBQ in Portland, bringing authentic flavors and creative fusion dishes to the forefront of the city’s food truck culture. Chef Han Ly Hwang’s approach blends traditional Korean techniques with local ingredients, introducing Portlanders to the nuanced world of Korean grilling, fermentation, and seasoning. The truck has garnered numerous accolades, including the Judges Award at Eat Mobile and a win at the Feast Portland Sandwich Invitational, while also helping elevate the visibility of Korean cuisine in the Pacific Northwest (Portland Monthly).

Hwang’s commitment to authenticity and education has made Kim Jong Grillin’ a cornerstone for both Korean Americans seeking familiar flavors and new diners eager to explore the complexity of Korean food culture.


Signature Dishes and Menu Highlights

Bulgogi Bibim Box

This flagship dish features marinated, grilled beef bulgogi served over steamed rice, accompanied by crispy potatoes, house-made kimchi, and a perfectly fried egg. The Bibim Box is celebrated for its harmonious blend of textures and flavors and is a must-try for first-time visitors (Best Food Trucks).

Kimchi Fried Rice

A deeply savory, slightly spicy plate made from day-old rice, generous kimchi, vegetables, and your choice of protein, often topped with a fried egg. This dish exemplifies the transformative power of fermentation in Korean cuisine (Best Food Trucks).

Spicy Pork Tacos

These fusion tacos combine marinated Korean pork, fresh herbs, kimchi, and spicy sauce in a soft tortilla, merging Korean and Mexican influences into a portable, crowd-pleasing favorite (Best Food Trucks).

Seasonal & Special Items

Kim Jong Grillin’ regularly features rotating specials, such as the Bulgogi Club Sandwich (winner at the Feast Portland Sandwich Invitational) and inventive competition dishes. These limited-time offerings showcase Hwang’s inventive culinary spirit and ensure there’s always something new for repeat visitors (Portland Monthly).


The Art and Science of Kimchi

Kimchi is central to Kim Jong Grillin’s identity. Chef Hwang is known for engaging customers about fermentation, emphasizing the role of salt, time, and temperature in developing kimchi’s signature sour, spicy, and slightly sweet profile. The truck’s kimchi is praised for its balance and authenticity, connecting diners to the deeper traditions of Korean cuisine (Portland Monthly).


Portion Sizes, Value, and Service

Kim Jong Grillin’ is renowned for generous portions, high-quality ingredients, and friendly, efficient service. The central location at Cart Blocks Pod enhances accessibility, making it popular with both lunch crowds and evening diners (Best Food Trucks).


Visiting Information: Hours, Location & Accessibility

Hours

Kim Jong Grillin’ typically operates Tuesday through Sunday, 11:00 AM to 7:00 PM. Hours may vary for holidays or special events, so always check the Best Food Trucks listing or social media for updates.

Location

Find Kim Jong Grillin’ at the Cart Blocks Pod in downtown Portland, easily accessible by public transit (MAX light rail and bus lines). For precise directions, consult Cart Blocks Pod info.

Parking

Street parking is limited and metered; nearby parking garages offer additional options.

Accessibility

The Cart Blocks Pod is wheelchair accessible, with paved walkways and accessible seating. For specific needs, contact the truck in advance.


Kim Jong Grillin’s Influence & Recognition

Cultural Impact

Kim Jong Grillin’ has helped normalize Korean flavors in Portland’s food scene, inspiring a new generation of food entrepreneurs and sparking important conversations about cultural authenticity and representation. Chef Hwang’s candid views on the challenges facing chefs of color have made the truck a respected voice in the community (VICE).

Awards & Media Recognition

  • 2011 Eat Mobile Festival: Judges Award winner
  • 2016 Feast Portland Sandwich Invitational: Winner
  • Featured in national and local media, including appearances on Food Network’s “Chopped” and consistent praise from critics (Eater Portland)

Community Engagement

Kim Jong Grillin’ participates in events like MusicFest NW and collaborates with other local businesses, reinforcing its role as a community hub.


Visitor Tips and FAQs

  • Arrive early or during off-peak hours to avoid long lines.
  • No reservations or tickets are required; service is first-come, first-served.
  • Vegetarian options are available occasionally; kimchi and sides are typically vegan and gluten-free.
  • Credit cards accepted, but bringing cash is a good idea.
  • Follow Kim Jong Grillin’ on social media for real-time updates on specials and hours.
  • Download the Audiala app for easy ordering and to discover more Portland food carts.

FAQs

  • What are Kim Jong Grillin’s visiting hours?
    Usually 11:00 AM–7:00 PM, Tuesday–Sunday; check online for updates.

  • Is parking available?
    Limited street parking; use nearby paid garages if possible.

  • Is the food truck wheelchair accessible?
    Yes, Cart Blocks Pod is fully accessible.

  • Are there vegetarian/vegan options?
    Limited, but kimchi and many sides are vegan/gluten-free.

  • Do I need a reservation or ticket?
    No, it’s walk-up only.


Conclusion

Kim Jong Grillin’ stands as a culinary landmark in Portland, offering expertly crafted Korean BBQ that balances authenticity with innovation. Its generous portions, welcoming atmosphere, and commitment to cultural representation have cemented its status as a must-visit for both locals and visitors. To get the most out of your visit, check current hours, explore the full menu, and consider pairing your meal with a tour of Portland’s diverse food carts and nearby attractions.

For further information, follow Kim Jong Grillin’ on Instagram and visit their official website.


Sources

  • Portland Monthly, “Cowabunga Q&A: Kim Jong Grillin’s Han Ly Hwang” (Portland Monthly)
  • Kim Jong Grillin’ Menu, Best Food Trucks
  • Eater Portland, “Kim Jong Grillin’ Returns With a New Cart and Location” (Eater Portland)
  • VICE, “Portland Chefs Discuss Cultural Appropriation Amid Burrito Stand Closure” (VICE)
  • Bridgetown Bites, “Food Industry Update” (Bridgetown Bites)

Visit The Most Interesting Places In Portland

5Th Avenue Cinema
5Th Avenue Cinema
|
  Acadia: A New Orleans Bistro
| Acadia: A New Orleans Bistro
Ainu And Native American Power Boards
Ainu And Native American Power Boards
Akadi
Akadi
Alberta Park
Alberta Park
Alphabet Historic District
Alphabet Historic District
Ankeny Square
Ankeny Square
Arbor Lodge Park
Arbor Lodge Park
Arlene Schnitzer Concert Hall
Arlene Schnitzer Concert Hall
Bagdad Theater
Bagdad Theater
Berkeley Park
Berkeley Park
Berrydale Park
Berrydale Park
Bipartisan Cafe
Bipartisan Cafe
Bit House Saloon
Bit House Saloon
Biwa
Biwa
Blackstone Hall
Blackstone Hall
Bloomington Park
Bloomington Park
Bluehour
Bluehour
Bob White Theatre
Bob White Theatre
Brasserie Montmartre
Brasserie Montmartre
Brentwood Park
Brentwood Park
British Overseas Restaurant Corporation
British Overseas Restaurant Corporation
Broadway Bridge
Broadway Bridge
Brushstrokes
Brushstrokes
Burnside Bridge
Burnside Bridge
Bust Of York
Bust Of York
Cadillac Cafe
Cadillac Cafe
Captain William Clark Monument
Captain William Clark Monument
Caruthers Park
Caruthers Park
Cathedral Park
Cathedral Park
|
  Cheryl'S On 12Th
| Cheryl'S On 12Th
Chiles Center
Chiles Center
Chiming Fountain
Chiming Fountain
Chinatown Gateway
Chinatown Gateway
Cinemagic Theater
Cinemagic Theater
Clinton Park
Clinton Park
Coffin Club
Coffin Club
Colonel Summers Park
Colonel Summers Park
Columbia Park
Columbia Park
Coming Of The White Man
Coming Of The White Man
Commodore Hotel
Commodore Hotel
Concordia University Portland
Concordia University Portland
Congregation Neveh Shalom
Congregation Neveh Shalom
Congregation Shaarie Torah
Congregation Shaarie Torah
Consulate Of Mexico, Portland
Consulate Of Mexico, Portland
Couch Park
Couch Park
Council Crest Park
Council Crest Park
Crystal Ballroom
Crystal Ballroom
Crystal Springs Rhododendron Garden
Crystal Springs Rhododendron Garden
Cully Park
Cully Park
Dan And Louis Oyster Bar
Dan And Louis Oyster Bar
Darcelle Xv Plaza
Darcelle Xv Plaza
Darcelle Xv Showplace
Darcelle Xv Showplace
Davenport
Davenport
David Campbell Memorial
David Campbell Memorial
Dawson Park
Dawson Park
Delta Cafe
Delta Cafe
Delta Park
Delta Park
Der Rheinlander
Der Rheinlander
Director Park
Director Park
Dog Bowl
Dog Bowl
Duniway Park
Duniway Park
East Portland Branch, Public Library Of Multnomah County
East Portland Branch, Public Library Of Multnomah County
Eastbank Esplanade
Eastbank Esplanade
Echo Theater
Echo Theater
Ed Benedict Park
Ed Benedict Park
Eem
Eem
Either/Or
Either/Or
|
  Elk Rock Gardens Of The Bishop'S Close
| Elk Rock Gardens Of The Bishop'S Close
Errol Heights Park
Errol Heights Park
|
  Esparza'S
| Esparza'S
Essex Park
Essex Park
Farewell To Orpheus
Farewell To Orpheus
Farragut Park
Farragut Park
Flavel Park
Flavel Park
Forest Park
Forest Park
|
  Frank'S Noodle House
| Frank'S Noodle House
Fremont Bridge
Fremont Bridge
Gabriel Park
Gabriel Park
Gammans Park
Gammans Park
George Himes Park
George Himes Park
George Park
George Park
George Washington
George Washington
Ghost Ship
Ghost Ship
Grant Park
Grant Park
Gypsy Restaurant And Velvet Lounge
Gypsy Restaurant And Velvet Lounge
Harney Park
Harney Park
Hawks Pdx
Hawks Pdx
Hawthorne Bridge
Hawthorne Bridge
Hazeltine Park
Hazeltine Park
Heathman Hotel
Heathman Hotel
Henry Thiele Restaurant
Henry Thiele Restaurant
Holladay Park
Holladay Park
Hollywood Theatre
Hollywood Theatre
Holon
Holon
Horse Brass Pub
Horse Brass Pub
Hoyt Hotel
Hoyt Hotel
|
  Huber'S Restaurant
| Huber'S Restaurant
International Harvester Company Warehouse
International Harvester Company Warehouse
International Rose Test Garden
International Rose Test Garden
Interstate Bridge
Interstate Bridge
Irving Park
Irving Park
Irving Street Kitchen
Irving Street Kitchen
Irvington
Irvington
|
  Jaciva'S Bakery And Chocolatier
| Jaciva'S Bakery And Chocolatier
|
  Jake'S Famous Crawfish
| Jake'S Famous Crawfish
Jamison Square
Jamison Square
Joan Of Arc
Joan Of Arc
Joe Etzel Field
Joe Etzel Field
Johnson Creek Park
Johnson Creek Park
Keller Fountain Park
Keller Fountain Park
Kelley Point Park
Kelley Point Park
Kelly Butte Natural Area
Kelly Butte Natural Area
Kennedy School
Kennedy School
Kenton Park
Kenton Park
Kern Park
Kern Park
|
  Kim Jong Grillin'
| Kim Jong Grillin'
King Albert Hall
King Albert Hall
La Carreta Mexican Restaurant
La Carreta Mexican Restaurant
|
  Ladd'S Addition
| Ladd'S Addition
Lair Hill Park
Lair Hill Park
Laurelhurst Park
Laurelhurst Park
Laurelwood Pub And Brewery
Laurelwood Pub And Brewery
Le Happy
Le Happy
Legacy Emanuel Medical Center
Legacy Emanuel Medical Center
Lents Park
Lents Park
Lincoln Hall
Lincoln Hall
Lloyd Center
Lloyd Center
Lloyd District
Lloyd District
Lone Fir Cemetery
Lone Fir Cemetery
Lovejoy Columns
Lovejoy Columns
Lovejoy Fountain Park
Lovejoy Fountain Park
Loyal B. Stearns Memorial Fountain
Loyal B. Stearns Memorial Fountain
Lutz Tavern
Lutz Tavern
Marquam Nature Park
Marquam Nature Park
Martini Glass Sign
Martini Glass Sign
Mccoy Park
Mccoy Park
Mckenna Park
Mckenna Park
Merchant Hotel
Merchant Hotel
Mill Ends Park
Mill Ends Park
Moda Center
Moda Center
Montavilla Park
Montavilla Park
Morrison Bridge
Morrison Bridge
Mt. Scott Park
Mt. Scott Park
Multnomah University
Multnomah University
National Cash Register Building
National Cash Register Building
Ned Flanders Crossing
Ned Flanders Crossing
Neuberger Hall
Neuberger Hall
Normandale Park
Normandale Park
Northwest Film Center
Northwest Film Center
Nostrana
Nostrana
Nuestra Cocina
Nuestra Cocina
O Cruceiro
O Cruceiro
Oaks Amusement Park
Oaks Amusement Park
Oaks Bottom Wildlife Refuge
Oaks Bottom Wildlife Refuge
Ocean City Seafood Restaurant
Ocean City Seafood Restaurant
Old Town / Chinatown
Old Town / Chinatown
Old Town Pizza
Old Town Pizza
Olive Or Twist
Olive Or Twist
Oregon College Of Oriental Medicine
Oregon College Of Oriental Medicine
Oregon Health & Science University
Oregon Health & Science University
Oregon Historical Society
Oregon Historical Society
Oregon Holocaust Memorial
Oregon Holocaust Memorial
Oregon Museum Of Science And Industry
Oregon Museum Of Science And Industry
Oregon Park
Oregon Park
Oregon Zoo
Oregon Zoo
Oriental Theatre
Oriental Theatre
|
  Otto'S Sausage Kitchen
| Otto'S Sausage Kitchen
Overlook Restaurant
Overlook Restaurant
Pambiche Cocina And Repostería Cubana
Pambiche Cocina And Repostería Cubana
|
  Papi Chulo'S
| Papi Chulo'S
Paris Theatre
Paris Theatre
Parklane Park
Parklane Park
Peace Chant
Peace Chant
Peninsula Park
Peninsula Park
Peter Stott Center
Peter Stott Center
Pettygrove Park
Pettygrove Park
Pier Park
Pier Park
Pioneer Courthouse
Pioneer Courthouse
Pioneer Courthouse Square
Pioneer Courthouse Square
Pioneer Place
Pioneer Place
Pittock Mansion
Pittock Mansion
Por Que No
Por Que No
Portland Art Museum
Portland Art Museum
Portland Building
Portland Building
Portland City Grill
Portland City Grill
Portland Firefighters Park
Portland Firefighters Park
Portland Institute For Contemporary Art
Portland Institute For Contemporary Art
Portland International Airport
Portland International Airport
Portland International Raceway
Portland International Raceway
Portland Japanese Garden
Portland Japanese Garden
Portland State University
Portland State University
Portlandia
Portlandia
|
  Portland'S Centers For The Arts
| Portland'S Centers For The Arts
Powell Park
Powell Park
Produce Row Café
Produce Row Café
Providence Park
Providence Park
Rimsky-Korsakoffee House
Rimsky-Korsakoffee House
Ring Of Time
Ring Of Time
River View Cemetery
River View Cemetery
Rose City Park
Rose City Park
Ross Island Bridge
Ross Island Bridge
Sacajawea And Jean-Baptiste
Sacajawea And Jean-Baptiste
Sacajawea Park
Sacajawea Park
Salmon Street Springs
Salmon Street Springs
Screen Door
Screen Door
Sellwood Park
Sellwood Park
Sellwood Riverfront Park
Sellwood Riverfront Park
Sewallcrest Park
Sewallcrest Park
Shanghai Tunnel Bar
Shanghai Tunnel Bar
Shift Drinks
Shift Drinks
Shriners Hospital For Children
Shriners Hospital For Children
Simon Benson House
Simon Benson House
Skidmore Old Town Historic District
Skidmore Old Town Historic District
South Park Blocks
South Park Blocks
South Waterfront Greenway
South Waterfront Greenway
South Waterfront Park
South Waterfront Park
|
  Spanish–American War Soldier'S Monument
| Spanish–American War Soldier'S Monument
Spanish–American War Veterans Memorial
Spanish–American War Veterans Memorial
Spirit Of 77
Spirit Of 77
St. Helens Court
St. Helens Court
St. Johns Bridge
St. Johns Bridge
St. Johns Park
St. Johns Park
St. Johns Racquet Center
St. Johns Racquet Center
Star Theater
Star Theater
Statue Of Abraham Lincoln
Statue Of Abraham Lincoln
Statue Of Paul Bunyan
Statue Of Paul Bunyan
Stratum
Stratum
Sunnyside School Park
Sunnyside School Park
Swan Island Municipal Airport
Swan Island Municipal Airport
Tanner Springs Park
Tanner Springs Park
Tasty N Alder
Tasty N Alder
Terry Schrunk Plaza
Terry Schrunk Plaza
The Alibi
The Alibi
The Dime Store
The Dime Store
The Dream
The Dream
The Fields Park
The Fields Park
The Oregonian Printing Press Park
The Oregonian Printing Press Park
The Parish
The Parish
The Roxy
The Roxy
The Woodsman Tavern
The Woodsman Tavern
Theodore Roosevelt, Rough Rider
Theodore Roosevelt, Rough Rider
Thor
Thor
Tideman Johnson Natural Area
Tideman Johnson Natural Area
Tikitotmoniki Totems
Tikitotmoniki Totems
Tilikum Crossing, Bridge Of The People
Tilikum Crossing, Bridge Of The People
Tom Mccall Waterfront Park
Tom Mccall Waterfront Park
Toro Bravo
Toro Bravo
Town Club
Town Club
Trenton Park
Trenton Park
Tryon Creek State Natural Area
Tryon Creek State Natural Area
Two Plum Park
Two Plum Park
Union Station
Union Station
Union Station / Northwest 6Th & Hoyt Street
Union Station / Northwest 6Th & Hoyt Street
University Of Portland
University Of Portland
University Of Western States
University Of Western States
Unthank Park
Unthank Park
Urban Hydrology
Urban Hydrology
Urban Plaza
Urban Plaza
Uss Blueback
Uss Blueback
Vault Cocktail Lounge
Vault Cocktail Lounge
Verdell Burdine Rutherford Park
Verdell Burdine Rutherford Park
Veterans Memorial Coliseum
Veterans Memorial Coliseum
Virginia Cafe
Virginia Cafe
Voices Of Remembrance
Voices Of Remembrance
Voodoo Doughnut
Voodoo Doughnut
Walk Of The Heroines
Walk Of The Heroines
Wallace Park
Wallace Park
Warner Pacific University
Warner Pacific University
Wellington Park
Wellington Park
Wells Fargo Center
Wells Fargo Center
Westmoreland Park
Westmoreland Park
White Stag Block
White Stag Block
Wildwood
Wildwood
Willamette National Cemetery
Willamette National Cemetery
Willamette Park
Willamette Park
Wilshire Park
Wilshire Park
Winter Rider No. 2
Winter Rider No. 2
|
  Wong'S King
| Wong'S King
Woodlawn Park
Woodlawn Park
Woodstock Park
Woodstock Park
Yale Union Laundry Building
Yale Union Laundry Building
Yankee Champion
Yankee Champion