Essential Korean Phrases: Ordering Food Edition

Getting ready for a gastronomic journey in South Korea? Don't let language barriers hinder your foodie experience! In this blog post, we'll delve into essential Korean expressions for ordering food, ensuring you savor every delightful bite without a hitch.

Menu Inquiry: "이거 뭐에요?" (Igeo mwoeyo?)
Translation: "What is this?"

Example:
Diner: "이거 뭐에요?" (What is this?)
Waiter: "이것은 불고기입니다. (This is bulgogi.)"


Ordering: "이거 주세요." (Igeo juseyo)
Translation: "Please give me this."

Example:
Diner: "이거 주세요." (Please give me this.)
Waiter: "네, 곧 가져다 드리겠습니다. (Sure, I'll bring it right away.)"


Customization Request:"매우 맵게 해주세요." (Maeu maepge haejuseyo)
Translation: "Make it very spicy, please."

Example:
Diner: "매우 맵게 해주세요." (Make it very spicy, please.)
Chef: "알겠습니다. (Understood.)"


Asking for Recommendations: "추천 메뉴 뭐에요?" (Chucheon menyu mwoeyo?)
Translation: "What do you recommend from the menu?"

Example:
Diner: "추천 메뉴 뭐에요?" (What do you recommend from the menu?)
Waiter: "저희 집의 특별 메뉴는 떡볶이입니다. (Our special menu is tteokbokki.)"


Expressing Dietary Preferences: "채식주의자에요." (Chaesikjuuuijaeyo)
Translation: "I'm a vegetarian."

Example:
Diner: "채식주의자에요." (I'm a vegetarian.)
Waiter: "채식주의자를 위한 옵션도 있습니다. (We have options for vegetarians as well.)"


Paying the Bill: "계산할게요." (Gyesanhalgeyo)
Translation: "I will pay."

Example:
Diner: "계산할게요." (I will pay.)
Cashier: "감사합니다. (Thank you.)"


With these key expressions, ordering food in Korea becomes a breeze, and your culinary adventure promises to be a delightful experience. Dive into the rich flavors of Korean cuisine with confidence! 맛있게 드세요 (Enjoy your meal)! 🍜🥢