Try the small side dishes with your main meal.
GUIDE 09
Your First Korean Restaurant
Don’t worry—that table setup is normal.
WHAT IS IT?
The small side dishes are called banchan. Spoons, chopsticks, and napkins may be stored in or beside the table.
HOW TO EAT IT
Look in a table drawer or nearby container for utensils and napkins.
Ask politely for more basic banchan if you would like some.
Say ‘Yogiyo’ clearly but politely if you need a server, or use a service bell when there is one.
Take it one relaxed bite at a time.
LOCAL TIP
Many basic sides can often be refilled, but some restaurants may limit special dishes or the number of refills.
TABLE TIP
Refill Your Side DishesNeed more banchan? Just ask the staff. Most Korean restaurants are happy to refill common side dishes at no extra charge, and some have a self-service banchan bar. A few dishes made with more expensive ingredients may be limited or not refillable. Don’t be shy—asking for more banchan is completely normal in Korea.
Don’t worry if…
Nothing about the table needs to feel mysterious—you can take your time and ask politely.