Are there any newcomers to Korean culture in your group? If so, guide them through the menu items you’d find in a Korean restaurant!
Going out to eat at local restaurants probably seems like a novel concept. After all, the pandemic has kept us all apart for so long that indoor dining feels different than it did before. Even so, it’s still possible to go out to eat and enjoy yourself. Are there any newcomers to Korean culture in your group? If so, guide them through the menu items you’d find in a Korean restaurant!
The Korean BBQ Joint
One of the most popular styles of Korean restaurants is the KBBQ place. These establishments are usually the first image to pop into someone’s mind whenever you mention Korean food. They could also associate Korean cuisine with food trucks that sling it. The grill on the table is there for you to cook your meal. Galbi (marinated short ribs) is delicious and will be a surefire crowd-pleaser. Then again, where you go might not have such a grill installed. In that case, order Galbi Jjim (braised short ribs) instead. That way, you can pass the dish around for everyone to enjoy. Family-style dining is highly popular in many Asian cultures, so you’re probably used to it by now.
Don’t Hesitate to Sample Everything There Is
Your server will bring side dishes called banchan to your table. You don’t have to order these; they are part of the meal itself. Think about the bread and butter that hit your table as complimentary appetizers in other restaurants. Here, the banchan serves the same purpose. It’s one of the customs, so just go with it.
Various Vegetarian Offerings
Meat isn’t the only thing on the menu at Korean restaurants. You can find a wide variety of vegetarian-friendly selections as well. Mandu (Korean-style dumplings) are a popular side dish that isn’t that different from its cousins – the jiaozi and the gyoza. There’s also pa jun (scallion pancakes) and japchae (sweet potato glass noodles that have been stir-fried for you!) Bibimbap is another wildly popular dish that many diners are fond of, especially since it can be offered as an entree by itself. Rice and veggies are the main ingredients in bibimbap. Meanwhile, rice cake soup (duk gook) takes center stage when you want something a little different.
Ask Your Server!
In the end, don’t be afraid to ask questions. Your first time at a Korean restaurant should be a good experience. That’s why going with friends and family is a fun way to spend some quality time together. But if you decide to go on your own and struggle to understand the menu (since it may not necessarily be printed in English), talk to your servers. They can recommend items that aren’t too spicy. You can also tell them that you would prefer mild instead of spicy.
Get All Your Asian Groceries at Lotte Plaza Market
Lotte Plaza Market is your go-to destination for all of your Korean and Asian grocery needs. With more than 10 Maryland and Virginia locations, this growing market is continually expanding and opening new markets to serve our customers better. Since we opened in 1976, our goal has always been to provide the best customer service and groceries to our customers. For answers to all of your questions, please email us at LottePlaza.com.