Eating out at a Korean restaurant can be a fun and memorable experience, but if it’s your first time, the customs and food choices might feel a bit unfamiliar. Don’t worry—Korean food is delicious, diverse, and welcoming to newcomers. With a few tips in mind, you’ll be ready to enjoy your meal like a local. Here’s what you need to know before visiting a Korean restaurant for the first time.
1. Understanding Banchan (Side Dishes)
One of the most unique aspects of dining in a Korean restaurant is the variety of banchan (side dishes) that come with your meal. These small dishes are served as complimentary additions, and they can include everything from kimchi (fermented cabbage) and namul (seasoned vegetables) to jeon (savory pancakes) and marinated seaweed.
- Don’t be shy about trying everything! You can sample the banchan as they’re meant to complement the main meal.
- Refills are free: If you really like a particular side dish, most restaurants will gladly refill your banchan at no extra charge—just ask politely.
2. Table Etiquette
Korean dining has its own set of table manners that are easy to follow once you know what to expect. Here are a few important customs to keep in mind:
- Wait for the eldest to begin: It’s respectful to wait for the oldest person at the table to start eating before you dig in.
- Use both hands when receiving or passing items, especially if you’re pouring drinks or receiving a plate. It’s a sign of respect.
- Chopstick etiquette: Avoid sticking your chopsticks vertically into a bowl of rice, as this resembles a funeral ritual. When not using them, rest your chopsticks on the holder or side of your plate.
3. How to Eat Communal Dishes
In many Korean restaurants, especially at places that serve stews (jjigae) or BBQ, food is often shared communally. A large pot or plate will be placed in the center of the table, and everyone will take from the same dish.
- Don’t double-dip: Use a serving spoon if one is provided or use your personal utensils to take food from the shared dish. Some restaurants may provide individual bowls for you to transfer food into.
- Be mindful of portion sizes: Take small amounts of food each time and return for more if needed. Sharing food is a sign of togetherness, and it’s polite to make sure everyone gets a fair share.
4. Grilling at Korean BBQ
If you’re at a Korean BBQ restaurant, the experience can be quite interactive. You’ll grill your own meat right at the table! Don’t worry if you’re unsure of what to do—the staff will often help with the grilling, especially when it comes to getting it started.
- Use the lettuce wraps: Korean BBQ is typically eaten with lettuce wraps (ssam). Place a piece of grilled meat on a leaf, add some ssamjang (savory dipping sauce), garlic, and vegetables, wrap it up, and eat it in one bite!
- Don’t be afraid to ask for help: If you’re unsure about how long to cook the meat or how to eat certain dishes, restaurant staff are generally very helpful and will assist you.
5. Using Rice and Soup
In Korean meals, rice (bap) and soup (guk or tang) are often considered staple components. They’ll often come with your main dish or as part of a set meal.
- Rice is eaten alongside everything: You’ll usually get a bowl of rice with your meal, and it’s eaten together with the other dishes rather than on its own.
- Soup is part of the main course: In many meals, soup is served as part of the main course and is often shared in communal bowls. In individual settings, you can sip the soup directly from the bowl or use a spoon.
6. Drinking Culture and Soju
In Korean dining culture, especially in the evening, soju (a popular Korean alcoholic drink) and makgeolli (a traditional rice wine) are often enjoyed with food. If you’re dining with locals, you may find yourself participating in Korean drinking customs.
- Pour drinks for others: In Korea, it’s customary to pour drinks for others rather than for yourself. Wait for someone to pour your glass, and then return the favor. When you’re pouring or receiving, use both hands as a sign of respect.
- Saying “cheers”: When drinking with others, you can say “geonbae” (cheers). It’s polite to wait for the oldest person to take the first drink.
7. Paying the Bill
In most Korean restaurants, the bill is typically paid at the front counter rather than at the table. Once you’re finished, head to the register near the entrance.
- Splitting the bill is less common in traditional settings. Often, one person will pay for the meal (perhaps taking turns between friends or family). However, in more casual settings, you can ask the cashier to split the bill if needed.
8. Language Tips
Though many restaurants in major cities like Seoul and Busan may have English menus, smaller or local establishments might not. Here are a few useful Korean phrases you can use to enhance your dining experience:
- 이거 주세요 (igeo juseyo) – “Please give me this” (point to the menu).
- 메뉴 추천해주세요 (menyu chucheonhae juseyo) – “Please recommend a dish.”
- 감사합니다 (gamsahamnida) – “Thank you.”
- 계산서 주세요 (gyesanseo juseyo) – “Please give me the bill.”
Conclusion: Enjoy the Experience!
Dining at a Korean restaurant for the first time can be an exciting cultural experience. By understanding some basic customs, embracing the communal aspect of Korean dining, and enjoying the variety of flavors and dishes, you’ll be well on your way to having a memorable meal. Don’t be afraid to ask questions, try new things, and fully immerse yourself in the flavors and traditions of Korea. Bon appétit, or as they say in Korean, 맛있게 드세요 (mas-issge deuseyo)!—enjoy your meal!