Essential tips if you’re visiting a Korean restaurant for the first time
If you’re new to dining at Korean restaurants, the process of ordering and eating might feel a bit unfamiliar.
I remember taking a foreign friend to a Korean restaurant and seeing the confused look on their face when trying to read the menu.
So today, let me walk you through how to order and dine at a Korean restaurant step-by-step.
Although it might seem different at first, it’s quite simple once you get the hang of it.
Based on personal experience, I’ll guide you through Korean dining culture in a kind and detailed way to help you feel confident during your visit.
You’ll usually be seated and then receive a menu
At most Korean restaurants, a staff member will guide you to a table and then bring the menu.
Sometimes, menus are also displayed near the entrance so you can preview them before sitting down.
Don’t worry if a staff member doesn’t come to you right away.
Once the menu is given, take your time to look through it and use the call button on the table to request assistance.
Menus are often categorized by dish types such as grilled meats, stews, and rice meals, making it easier to choose.
Many restaurants also offer single-person sets or individual items, which is great for solo diners.
Use the call button or raise your hand to call staff
In Korea, most restaurant tables are equipped with a call button. Pressing it will alert the staff to come to your table,
so there’s no need to shout or wave.
If there’s no call button,
just raise your hand slightly and say “Jeo-gi-yo” (excuse me) to get the staff’s attention.
They’ll usually approach you kindly and take your order.
You can also request modifications like spice levels, portion sizes, or side dish refills at this time.
Side dishes are free and can be refilled
One of the unique aspects of Korean dining is the variety of side dishes, called “banchan”.
These include items like kimchi, seasoned vegetables, and pickled items, and are provided separately from your main dish.
Most of these side dishes can be refilled for free—just ask the staff if you’d like more.
However, in some upscale restaurants or franchises, refills may be limited or charged, so it’s good to ask if you’re unsure.
It’s considered polite to ask for refills once or twice, rather than repeatedly.
Paying is usually done at the counter
Once you’re done eating, it’s common to go to the front counter to pay rather than paying at the table.
At Korean restaurants, the staff might say
“I’ll help you with the bill,”
which means you can head to the cashier.
Cash and cards are accepted, and many places now support mobile payments too.
If you want to split the bill, just say “We’ll pay separately” and the staff will divide it accordingly.
Some places also offer complimentary candies or mints after payment, giving a pleasant final touch to your meal.
Refer to the table below for a clearer understanding.
| Item | Description | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Seating | Staff guides you to a table | Check if solo dining is available |
| Ordering | Use call button or raise your hand | Call out if there’s no button |
| Payment | Done at the counter | Split bill available |
Dining etiquette is also important
Dining etiquette plays a big role in Korean restaurants. When dining with elders, it’s customary to wait for them to start eating first.
When pouring or receiving drinks, use both hands as a sign of respect.
During the meal, it’s common to keep conversations quiet and avoid wasting food.
It’s best to order only as much as you can eat and avoid leaving leftovers.
At the end of the meal, saying “I enjoyed the meal” is a polite way to show appreciation.
A simple “Thank you” to the staff is always appreciated and leaves a good impression.
Tidying up your table a little before leaving is also considered courteous.
Ordering and eating at a Korean restaurant is easy
Today we covered how to order and dine at a Korean restaurant in detail.
From choosing your dish to making payment, it’s a smooth and friendly experience once you understand the steps.
The refillable side dishes, use of call buttons, and counter payment system might even become your favorite parts of the experience.
If you’re visiting a Korean restaurant for the first time and feeling unsure, just revisit this guide and don’t hesitate to ask the staff.
They’re usually very friendly and happy to help.
Now, you’re ready to confidently enjoy a delicious Korean meal. Bon appétit!