불고기 Bulgogi
Sweet soy-marinated beef, grilled or pan-cooked.
First time eating Korean food? Start here
Six dishes that aren't spicy, how a Korean meal is served, how ordering works, and the few table manners that matter.
Six dishes that aren't spicy
삼계탕 Samgyetang
A whole young chicken stuffed with rice and ginseng, in a clear broth.
설렁탕 Seolleongtang
Milky beef bone soup you season yourself with salt and green onion.
잡채 Japchae
Glass noodles stir-fried with vegetables, often with beef, in soy sauce and sesame oil.
How a Korean meal works
- Rice and soup are yoursEach person usually gets a bowl of rice, and often a soup.
- Large dishes are sharedGrilled meat, pancakes and big pots of stew go in the middle for everyone. Many stews also come in single servings.
- Side dishes come with the mealSmall plates called banchan arrive without ordering. Refills are usually free.
- Spoon and chopsticksThe spoon is for rice and soup, chopsticks for everything else.
Ordering at a Korean restaurant
Find a seat
At many casual places you can take an empty table. If staff greet you or there is a waiting list, wait to be seated.
Call or tap to order
Many tables have a call button, a tablet or a kiosk by the door.
Check the minimum
Korean BBQ and some stews are often sold for two or more people.
Pay when you leave
Usually at the counter, unless you already paid at a kiosk. Tipping isn't expected.
Five table manners worth knowing
- Don't stand your chopsticks upright in a bowl of rice.
- Leave your rice bowl on the table instead of lifting it to your mouth.
- When eating with older people, let them start first.
- When drinking with Koreans, pour for others rather than for yourself.
- Turn your head slightly away when you drink in front of someone older.
How we rate spice
| Level | What it means |
|---|---|
| Not spicy | No chili heat. |
| Mild | A little warmth. Fine for most people. |
| Medium | Clearly spicy. You'll want water nearby. |
| Hot | Very spicy, even for many Koreans. |
Restaurants vary. To ask for less heat, say 덜 맵게 해 주세요 (deol maepge hae juseyo) — "please make it less spicy."
Common questions
Do I need to speak Korean to order?
No. Many restaurants have picture menus, and in tourist areas English menus are common. Pointing works too.
Do I tip in Korea?
No. Tipping isn't expected at Korean restaurants.
Is water free?
Usually, yes. In many places it's self-service.