One of the more overlooked ethnic cuisines in America, Korean food is also one of the most flavorful. With black pepper, hot chiles, soy sauce, vinegar, ginger and – most prominently – garlic in tow, the featured spices are perfect for the more adventurous diner. Healthful and reasonably priced, Mesa's Korean BBQ is one of the most shining examples of Korean dining in the Valley. In an inconspicuous strip mall on Alma School Road, this family-run joint serves hearty portions of comfort food in an inviting atmosphere. Soups and appetizers are solid, but best to save room for what's to come. Start with the excellent salad that kicks off every meal, but don't mistake the separate bowls of lettuce-like leaves for another starter. Those are actually filled with kimchi, the spicy pickled cabbage meant to accompany the barbecue. Prepare them with red bean chile paste, rice and various other condiments while the tabletop grills heat up. Toss in your choice of marinated beef, pork, chicken, fish or squid with vegetables, and let simmer, or, if you prefer, send your choices back to the kitchen and have the pros cook for you. Also worthy of attention is the popular, traditional rice dish bi bim bop, in which rice, veggies, beef, fried egg and red chile sauce are sautéed together in a stone pot. And as long as you're trying something new, spring for an OB or a bottle of soju (Korean beer and rice wine, respectively). Everything is so delicious and plentiful, Korean BBQ doesn't even need its extra amenities – private karaoke rooms, free wireless internet access and free long-distance calling – to recommend it. But no one's complaining. Open mic night Mon 7 pm–9 pm. Full bar. Serving lunch Mon–Sat, dinner nightly.