Mapo BBQ serves Korean barbecue with meats seared over charcoal, which adds a smoky layer to the usual beef-and-pork spread. The setup keeps the focus on the grill, with simple accompaniments that let the meat stay front and center. Bites tend to come out juicy with a crisp edge, especially when eaten quickly off the grill. New York guides repeatedly highlight the charcoal technique as the defining feature of this spot.