It started with a whisper—the kind that spreads like smoke before fire. Matjoa Korean BBQ, the renowned Korean BBQ hub, isn’t closing… it’s relocating. And not just anywhere. It’s packing its fiery grills and signature spices, and heading north—to North Tampa. For fans who’ve chased every sizzling platter from Pinellas to the edge of the Gulf, this isn’t goodbye. It’s just a short, 25-minute journey inland… to something bigger, bolder, and just as unforgettable.
From Pinellas to Odessa: A Move Built on Flavor
The original Matjoa location in Pinellas had a kind of mystique to it. You didn’t just walk in—you arrived. Smoke curled from grills, laughter bounced off walls, and the scent of seared bulgogi could hypnotize anyone within a ten-foot radius. And now? That same experience is reincarnating at 8568 Gunn Highway in Odessa. A new location—same mouthwatering mission.
Their official Instagram (@matjoa_bbq) teases the big reopening, though the date remains cloaked in mystery. The kind of suspense that Stephen King might savor—a story waiting to climax, a bite just out of reach. One thing’s for certain: this isn’t just a restaurant move, it’s a ritual migration.
A Flame That Never Dies
Matjoa’s success has never been about convenience—it’s about consistency, craftsmanship, and community. Every visit is a performance: meats marinated with ancestral precision, a tableside grill that turns every diner into a chef, and servers who glide like stagehands ensuring the spotlight always shines on flavor.
You’ll find all the cult favorites at the new North Tampa location. Think:
- Stone Bowl Bibimbap, where rice crackles against hot stone
- Savory Seafood Pancake, golden and brimming with ocean soul
- And of course, Jumbo Korean Style Corn Dogs, crunchy, quirky, and indulgent
These are not just meals. These are stories told in sizzle and spice, culinary narratives passed down from Seoul to the Sunshine State.
The Final Burn in Pinellas
But even great stories have chapters that must close. Matjoa will continue offering dine-in and Uber Eats through June 8. Then, on June 9 and 10, they’ll switch to takeout and Uber Eats only, as they prepare for the Odessa debut.
So if you’ve been meaning to visit the OG Matjoa one last time—this is your final act. After that, the flame will rise again on Gunn Highway, rekindled and reimagined.
Follow their journey and stay updated on the official reopening via their Instagram: @matjoa_bbq.
What’s Next: Odessa’s Grills Await
The Odessa spot isn’t just a sequel—it’s a rebirth. Nestled in North Tampa, it’s a location with room to grow, both in kitchen space and community. And while the re-opening date might be TBD, the promise is already signed, sealed, and marinated.
Expect the same high-quality meats, the same electric tabletop grilling, and the same vibe where strangers become friends over fire. Whether it’s your first time or your fiftieth, Matjoa guarantees authentic Korean barbecue, comfort dishes, and an experience you won’t forget.
The Flavor Bridge: Korean Soul Across the Bay
In a way, Matjoa’s move isn’t about geography—it’s about legacy. They’re not just relocating; they’re shuttling Korean flavor across Tampa Bay like a sacred ember. And as always, they’ll serve it with a side of warmth, heart, and heat.
So what happens when your favorite BBQ joint becomes even more accessible? You go. You follow the scent. And you bring your appetite, your curiosity, and maybe a few napkins.
The Final Word Before the Fire Rises Again
This isn’t just the story of a restaurant moving zip codes. It’s the tale of a Korean BBQ institution, staying true to its roots while feeding the future. Whether you’re a devout foodie, a first-timer craving grilled galbi, or someone just chasing flavor in unfamiliar places—Matjoa is worth the detour.
And when they finally light the grills in North Tampa, it won’t just be dinner. It’ll be a ceremony of smoke, spice, and satisfaction.
Hungry for what comes next?
You should be. Because this isn’t the end of Matjoa’s story. It’s the beginning of something even hotter.
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