Eating out in Korea is easy once you know a few habits: water and side dishes are free and refilled, you often order at a kiosk or tablet, you call staff with a bell or a polite "jeogiyo", and you pay at the counter on the way out. There is no tipping. Barbecue and stew places often want an order for at least two people, so solo travelers do better at places with single-portion menus.
What usually happens, start to finish
| Step | What to expect | Tip |
|---|---|---|
| Getting a table | Seat yourself in casual places; wait to be seated in busier ones | Popular places use a waitlist tablet at the door |
| Ordering | Kiosk, table tablet, QR code, or a server | Many tablets have an English button |
| During the meal | Free water, side dishes, often free refills | Press the call bell on the table, or say "jeogiyo" |
| Paying | At the counter on the way out, or at the kiosk when you order | No tip; cards are accepted almost everywhere |
The habits worth knowing
Kiosks and tablets
- Kiosk Common in fast food, cafés and casual restaurants. You order and pay first, then wait for your number.
- Tablet On the table in many barbecue and pub-style places. Orders go straight to the kitchen and you pay at the end.
- If your card fails Some kiosks reject foreign cards. Order at the counter instead; staff are used to it.
Side dishes and water
- Banchan Small side dishes come free with most Korean meals and can usually be refilled. Some places have a self-serve bar.
- Water Free, often self-serve from a dispenser near the counter.
Minimum orders and eating alone
- Two-person minimum Barbecue, hot pot and some stew places list prices per serving and ask for at least two servings.
- Eating alone Look for kimbap shops, noodle places, gukbap (soup and rice) restaurants, and places with counter seats. "Honbap" (eating alone) is common.
Calling staff and paying
- Calling Press the bell on the table, or raise your hand and say "jeogiyo" (excuse me).
- Paying Take the bill to the counter by the exit. Splitting the bill is usually fine; just ask for separate payments.
- Tipping Not expected anywhere.
Dietary needs
- Vegetarian Many soups and kimchi use fish or anchovy broth or fish sauce. Ask specifically, or look for temple-food and vegan restaurants.
- Allergies Show a written note in Korean. Papago or a translated card works better than explaining.
- Spicy Red color usually means chili. Ask for "an maepge" (not spicy); some dishes cannot be made mild.
FAQ
Is it rude to leave food?
No, though it is polite not to waste a lot. Order a little and add more if you are still hungry.
Do I need a reservation?
Not for most casual places. Popular restaurants use waitlists, and some fine-dining places take bookings online.
Can I bring my kids?
Yes. Most casual restaurants are family friendly, and many have floor seating where you take your shoes off.
Sources and last check
Written by the Korean Tip editors from everyday dining practice in Korea and the Korea Tourism Organization's dining guidance, checked on 26 October 2026. Customs vary by restaurant, so follow what you see around you.