Eating out is one of the best ways to experience Korean culture firsthand. Whether you’re at a casual barbecue place, a traditional Korean restaurant, or a street food stall, knowing how to order food politely and clearly will make your dining experience enjoyable and stress-free.
In this lesson, we’ll cover essential vocabulary related to ordering food, useful phrases, cultural tips, and common expressions you’ll hear and use at Korean restaurants.
Essential Vocabulary for Ordering Food
- 메뉴 (menyu) – Menu
- 주문하다 (jumunhada) – To order
- 추천하다 (chucheonhada) – To recommend
- 맛있다 (masitda) – To be delicious
- 주세요 (juseyo) – Please give me
- 더 (deo) – More
- 물 (mul) – Water
- 반찬 (banchan) – Side dishes
- 계산하다 (gyesanhada) – To pay
- 맛있게 먹겠습니다 (masitge meokgesseumnida) – I will eat well (thank you for the food)
- 감사합니다 (gamsahamnida) – Thank you
How to Order Food Politely
When you want to order something, it’s polite to say the item name followed by “주세요” which means “please give me.” For example, “비빔밥 주세요” means “Please give me bibimbap.”
If you want to ask for recommendations, you can say “추천해 주세요” which means “Please recommend.”
Common Expressions You’ll Hear
- 어서 오세요! – Welcome!
- 주문하시겠어요? – Would you like to order?
- 조금만 기다려 주세요. – Please wait a moment.
- 맛있게 드세요! – Enjoy your meal!
- 계산서 주세요. – Please give me the bill.
Example Dialogues
A: 메뉴 좀 주세요.
B: 여기 있습니다.
A: 비빔밥 하나 주세요.
B: 네, 알겠습니다.
A: 물 좀 더 주세요.
B: 네, 바로 가져다 드리겠습니다.
A: 맛있게 먹겠습니다!
B: 감사합니다!
Cultural Tips
In Korean dining culture, it is polite to say “맛있게 먹겠습니다” before eating as a way to thank the cook or host. Similarly, after the meal, saying “감사합니다” shows your appreciation.
Sharing side dishes (반찬) is common, so you can try a little of everything. Also, if you want more side dishes or water, politely ask the server using “더 주세요.”
Practice Challenge
Try ordering your favorite Korean dishes with “주세요” and practice saying “맛있게 먹겠습니다” before you eat. If you’re unsure what to order, ask for recommendations with “추천해 주세요.”
Next Up
Next lesson will teach you how to choose drinks and order at a cafe — perfect for casual hangouts and coffee breaks.
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