Essential Phrases for Ordering Food in a Korean Restaurant

Welcome to exploring some essential phrases that will help you navigate and enjoy a meal at a Korean restaurant. Whether you're a language enthusiast or a first-time visitor, mastering these key expressions will enhance your dining experience in Korea.

Basic Phrases and Food Terms

The language barrier can be daunting, but fear not. Here are some fundamental phrases and terms that will make ordering food at a Korean restaurant more accessible:

Please give me: Soju: Ju se yo Maekju (beer): Maekju se yo Mool (water): Mool se yo Po keu (fork): Po keu se yo Kong ki bap (bowl of rice): Kong ki bap se yo e.g.: Please give me a bowl of rice Kong ki bap se yo Where is the: Restroom: Uh di e it so yo Napkin: Napkin it so yo Spoon (Soot ga rak): Soot ga rak it so yo Chopsticks (Jut ga rak): Jut ga rak it so yo

Ordering Multiple Servings

Here are some phrases to order multiple servings:

Duo (1 or 2 servings):) Yeo gi neun Mwo ga Ma ssi sso yo (What’s good here): Yeogin mwo ga masisiyo You can ruin the order with this magic spell:
Se joo joo se yo (Please give me a lot): Se joo jeo se yo Note: This phrase might not work in franchise restaurants. Is it spicy? Yeogeo mapa nas yo If you can't eat spicy food, and the food is red, say: Ahn map ke hae joo se yo (Please don't make it spicy): Ahn mapa haveyo se yo Is there no service? Sevice up nah yo Then say: Service jom joo se yo (Please give me some service): Servise jom se yo This is especially useful when ordering delivery food.

Ordering Process

Here are a few key phrases to follow the ordering process:

Achool meeseo (I'll order): Achool meeso Jeomeun geosig (one dish): Jeomeun geosig Dum sismeok geosig (two dishes): Dum simgeosig Mah nee joo se yo (Give me a lot): Mah nee joo se yo Yeo gi neun mwo ga ma ssi sso yo (What’s good here): Yeogin mwo ga masisiyo

Even if you're not fluent in Korean, these phrases are generally easily understood, and many restaurants are staffed with helpful personnel who can assist you. Remember, using these phrases can make your dining experience more enjoyable and authentic.