🍽️ Korean Restaurant Tips for Travelers 🇰🇷

 

🍽️ Korean Restaurant Tips for Travelers 🇰🇷 (4)

Korean Restaurant Tips, Korea Visit, Travel

Picture: Unsplash의Daniel

Korean food is delicious and unique, but dining out in Korea can be a bit different from what you might be used to. Here’s a helpful guide to make your restaurant experience smooth and enjoyable!

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1. Reservation and Waiting

• Popular restaurants, especially in Seoul and tourist hotspots, can get crowded.

• Consider making a reservation if possible, especially for dinner or weekends.

• If no reservation, expect a wait, but many places have efficient seating turnover.

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2. Menu and Ordering

• Many restaurants have menus with pictures and English translations, especially in tourist areas.

• If unsure, point at the menu or photos to order.

• Don’t hesitate to ask staff for recommendations — many speak basic English or can help with gestures.

• Some places offer set menus or sharing platters — great for trying multiple dishes.

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3. Banchan (Side Dishes)

• When you order, you’ll often get several small side dishes called ‘banchan’ for free.

• These are refillable in most restaurants, so enjoy them as much as you like!

• If you don’t like spicy food, mention it to the staff as some banchan can be quite spicy.

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4. Chopsticks and Spoons

• Korean chopsticks are usually metal and flat — might take some getting used to!

• Spoon is often used for rice and soups.

• Don’t stick chopsticks vertically into rice — it’s considered bad luck (it resembles a ritual for the deceased).

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5. Sharing and Eating

• Korean meals are often shared family-style.

• It’s common to share main dishes and side dishes among everyone at the table.

• Use the serving utensils to take food from shared dishes.

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6. Paying the Bill

• Usually, you pay at the cashier near the exit, not at your table.

• If you want to pay at the table, ask the staff politely.

• Most places accept cash and credit cards.

• Tipping is generally not expected or customary in Korea.

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7. Etiquette and Behavior

• It’s polite to wait for elders to start eating first if dining with Korean locals.

• Avoid loud talking or phone use during meals.

• Don’t leave large amounts of food uneaten; it’s polite to finish what you take.

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Bonus Tip: Try Street Food and Markets!

• Street food stalls and markets like Gwangjang Market offer tasty, affordable options with a fun atmosphere.

• Perfect for quick bites or casual meals!