Last fact-checked: August 24, 2026. Services, prices and eligibility can change; verify live provider information before acting.
You can order in most Korean restaurants by pointing to a menu item, showing the quantity with your fingers and confirming whether you are eating in or taking out. Keep a translation app ready, but translate short ingredient questions rather than long paragraphs.
For allergies, vegan diets or religious restrictions, do not rely only on a dish name or photo. Broth, sauce, garnish and shared cooking surfaces can contain ingredients that are not obvious.
The simplest ordering workflow
- Check whether you order at the table, counter or kiosk.
- Choose a dish and show its menu photo or Korean name.
- State the quantity: 하나 (one), 둘 (two), 셋 (three).
- Confirm dine-in: 먹고 갈게요, or takeout: 포장해 주세요.
- Pay at the counter unless the restaurant uses table payment.
Using a kiosk
Look for a language button before beginning. Build the order slowly, review options and photograph the final confirmation if the pickup screen may be difficult to follow. If a foreign card fails, ask whether you can order and pay at the staffed counter.
- Do not tap through optional toppings without checking the price.
- Confirm the branch is serving dine-in or takeout.
- Keep the receipt or order number until collection.
Useful short requests
- 이거 하나 주세요 — One of this, please.
- 안 매운 걸로 주세요 — Please make it not spicy, if possible.
- 물 주세요 — Water, please.
- 계산할게요 — I’d like to pay.
- 알레르기가 있어요 — I have an allergy.
Delivery is harder than eating in
Some Korean delivery services require a Korean phone number, local address format or domestic payment method. Start with restaurant pickup, a hotel concierge, or a platform that explicitly supports foreign travelers. Never ask a driver to enter a restricted building; meet at a clear entrance and keep your phone reachable.
When you need interpretation
Korea Tourism Organization’s 1330 service provides tourist information and interpretation by phone and real-time chat. Also install the tools listed in our essential Korea apps guide.
Save this checklist
- Save dietary questions in Korean.
- Confirm dine-in or takeout.
- Review kiosk extras before paying.
- Keep the receipt or pickup number.
Quick questions
Is water free at Korean restaurants?
Many casual restaurants provide water without a separate charge, often at a self-service station, but practices vary. Look for cups or ask 물 주세요 rather than assuming bottled water is complimentary.
How do I ask for less spicy food?
Say 안 맵게 해 주세요, but understand that a premade sauce or broth may not be adjustable. Choose a dish that is normally mild when spice is a health concern.
Can 1330 order food for me?
1330 provides tourism information and interpretation, not a general personal concierge. It can help bridge a travel-related language problem, while the restaurant or delivery platform controls the transaction.