A new Korean restaurant in Austin, DAM-A, has opened its doors, offering a unique blend of Korean barbecue and hot pot while bringing an innovative dining experience to the local community. The business, founded by two longtime friends and entrepreneurs, aims to stand out in a growing market by blending traditional flavors with a fresh, interactive approach to dining.

The restaurant was born from innovation and vision. Its owners previously operated another Korean barbecue restaurant in the area for 15 years. However, as competition increased, they saw an opportunity to evolve with the changing food trends.

“This area has a lot of big Asian companies opening, especially Korean barbecue restaurants,” owner Insun Kang said. “We decided to open a new business [with a new concept], but we still wanted to keep the Korean barbecue.”

Adapting to the expanding dining landscape, DAM-A was created. It’s a place where customers can enjoy both Korean barbecue and hot pot for a single price, eliminating the need to choose between the two.

Beyond barbecue and hot pot, the restaurant offers a signature experience: do-it-yourself spring rolls. Guests can select fresh ingredients from a display and wrap them in rice paper, adding another interactive element to the meal.

“[Our DIY] spring roll experience isn’t everywhere,” Kang said. “You can order individual spring rolls from a Vietnamese restaurant or a Japanese restaurant, but it's not the same. We display a lot of sliced vegetables. Then you can actually cook and put in the protein.”

The menu also features Korean staples such as simmered rice cakes, known as tteokbokki, and Korean-style fried chicken.

The restaurant’s interior reflects its philosophy of balance—cozy and inviting but not overly formal. With a color scheme of green and black, along with warm lighting, the space is designed to be comfortable for both casual and special occasions. A large party room is also available for reservations, accommodating birthdays, graduations and other events.

Since opening Jan. 18, the restaurant has received an overwhelming response. Kang noted that while many customers were initially unfamiliar with the Korean barbecue and hot pot concept, they quickly caught on with a little guidance.

“People didn’t know how to do it at first, but now everyone is getting it,” Kang said.

By helping guests navigate the experience, she is bridging the gap between cultures and introducing more people to the traditions of Korean dining.

To encourage repeat visits, the restaurant has launched several promotions, including a free meal for customers on their birthdays and a rewards program offering a complimentary meal on the sixth visit. Additionally, customers who leave a review receive a 30% discount, as the owners see feedback as essential to improving the restaurant.

“I'm open to hearing any bad feedback or good feedback. It doesn't matter. It helps me improve,” Kang said.

Looking ahead, Kang hopes to expand her restaurant concept and eventually franchise to other cities. For now, their focus remains on perfecting their vision, serving quality food and creating a welcoming space where people can gather, share a meal and enjoy a taste of Korean culture.

To enjoy this unique dining experience, head to 713 E. Huntland Drive, Austin.

The above story was produced by Multi Platform Journalist Sydney Heller with Community Impact's Storytelling team with information solely provided by the local business as part of their "sponsored content" purchase through our advertising team.