Behind the Scenes with Bulgogi Zip

We’d love to learn your story, how you joined the restaurant industry, and what inspired you to start Bulgogi Zip?

"We’re a family-run business. A lot of people questioned why we wouldn’t open in Jersey City or Hoboken, but my father-in-law was determined. He left his previous business to make this dream a reality. I joined last year after leaving my job in the hospital, and now we’re all in this together, bringing our diverse backgrounds to the table.”

Tell us about Bulgogi Zip. How do you define the concept of your restaurant?

"Bulgogi Zip is all about offering healthy, conscious, and affordable meals. There’s a lot of fast food in Newark, and we wanted to be different by providing a healthier alternative. We’re very conscious of what we put on our menu—everything is made from scratch without additives or MSG. Korean food is naturally healthy, and it’s been really popular lately, so we try to make it as accessible as possible for college students and local workers."

What is your most popular dish?

"Our most popular dish right now is the K-pop Chicken, which is like Korean-style popcorn chicken. It’s boneless and easy to eat, which makes it perfect for students who need a quick bite while studying or working. Another top seller is our Bulgogi Bowl, which comes with marinated beef, rice, and coleslaw. It’s a balanced meal with carbs, protein, and veggies. Our dumplings and bibimbap are also really popular. The bibimbap is a traditional Korean dish with rice, veggies, and a choice of protein, topped with a fried egg and sauce."

What has been the most rewarding aspect of being a restaurateur?

"For me personally, the most rewarding part is seeing a nice review or shoutout on social media. Customers sometimes say they try to gatekeep our restaurant because it’s their favorite spot, but they just have to share it. It’s really gratifying when people recognize the hard work we put into making everything from scratch and appreciate the flavors. We’re so grateful for our loyal customers, some of whom eat here every day."

What advice would you give to aspiring restaurateurs?

"Stay true to your vision and be prepared for hard work. It’s tempting to take shortcuts, like using pre-made sauces, but we believe in making everything from scratch. The restaurant industry is challenging, but when customers appreciate your effort and keep coming back, it’s all worth it."

Can you share a behind-the-scenes look at a typical day running Bulgogi Zip?

"I usually have a pretty chill morning at home, then head to the restaurant around 11 a.m. I focus on the aesthetics, making sure everything is in its place, and handle social media posts. I help with front-of-house tasks and restocking, but the cooking is mainly done by my husband, father-in-law, and our kitchen staff. I’m like a floater, helping out wherever I’m needed. I also manage emails and other administrative tasks so that the team can focus on cooking and serving our customers."

What’s next for Bulgogi Zip? Any expansion plans?

"Expansion is definitely on our minds, but it’s a bit of a debate within the family. Some of us want to expand, while others are more hesitant. We’re also always looking to update our menu to stay on trend and meet customer requests. It’s not as simple as just adding a new dish—we have to think about the recipe, how to produce it in large quantities, and ensure quality control. But we’re always considering new ideas."

How has being on a campus influenced your menu?

"Being near a campus, we’ve designed our menu with convenience in mind. Many of our dishes are easy to take on the go, which is perfect for students and busy professionals."

Who is your dream customer to try your food?

"That’s a tough one! I’d love to see Emma Watson or Jennifer Lawrence try our food—especially Jennifer Lawrence because she’s known to love food. But honestly, anyone who’s a big foodie and would really enjoy the experience is welcome."