Introduction

Learning Korean can make your dining experience in Korea smoother and more enjoyable. This guide covers practical Korean phrases for ordering food, asking questions, and navigating cultural nuances at restaurants. Let’s dive into the essential expressions you’ll need!

Greetings and Initial Communication

Entering the Restaurant

• “안녕하세요” (Annyeonghaseyo) - Hello

• “몇 분이세요?” (Myeot bun-iseyo?) - How many people?

• “혼자예요.” (Honja-eyo) - I’m alone.

Cultural Tip: Polite greetings are an important part of Korean culture, setting a friendly tone for your meal.

Asking for a Table

• “자리 있나요?” (Jari innayo?) - Is there a seat available?

• “창가 자리 부탁드려요.” (Changga jari butak deuryeoyo) - A table by the window, please.

Ordering Food

Asking for the Menu

• “메뉴 주세요.” (Menu juseyo) - Please give me the menu.

• “추천 메뉴가 뭐예요?” (Chucheon menuga mwoyeyo?) - What do you recommend?

Placing an Order

• “불고기 2인분 주세요.” (Bulgogi i-inbun juseyo) - Two servings of bulgogi, please.

• “맵지 않게 해주세요.” (Maepji anke haejuseyo) - Please make it less spicy.

Dietary Preferences or Allergies

• “고기 빼주세요.” (Gogi ppaejuseyo) - Please remove the meat.

• “땅콩 알레르기가 있어요.” (Ttangkong allerugiga isseoyo) - I have a peanut allergy.

During the Meal

Calling for Assistance

• “저기요!” (Jeogiyo!) - Excuse me!

• “물 좀 더 주세요.” (Mul jom deo juseyo) - Please give me more water.

Asking About Dishes

• “이건 뭐예요?” (Igeon mwoyeyo?) - What is this?

• “소스가 뭐로 만들어졌어요?” (Soseuga mworo mandeureojyeosseoyo?) - What is the sauce made of?

Paying the Bill

Asking for the Check

• “계산할게요.” (Gyesanhalgeyo) - I’ll pay now.

• “카드 돼요?” (Kadeu dwaeyo?) - Do you accept cards?

Expressing Gratitude

• “잘 먹었습니다.” (Jal meogeotseumnida) - I enjoyed the meal.

• “감사합니다.” (Gamsahamnida) - Thank you.

Tips for Navigating Korean Restaurants

• Side Dishes Are Free: In most Korean restaurants, side dishes (“Banchan”) are complimentary and refillable.

• No Tipping: Tipping is not a custom in Korea. The service fee is usually included in the bill.

• Sharing Culture: Meals are often served family-style, so expect to share dishes.