Look for the ordering system first
Pause at the entrance. There may be a host, a waiting list, a kiosk or instructions to order at the counter. At a small restaurant, a brief gesture to the staff can establish where to sit. Follow the restaurant’s own signs instead of assuming every place uses table service.
Pointing at the menu is fine
이거 하나 주세요 means ‘One of this, please.’ Point to the item and indicate the quantity. If you are unsure whether a picture shows one serving or a shared dish, ask before ordering. A translation app can help with the question, but check the answer with staff rather than treating the app as a guarantee.
Ask for attention politely
저기요 is a common way to get someone’s attention, roughly ‘Excuse me.’ Some tables have a call button; others do not. Use the method provided and give the staff time to respond. To ask for water, 물 주세요 means ‘Water, please.’ Check whether there is a self-service station.
Finish with the payment instructions
Some restaurants ask you to pay at the counter, while others use payment at the table or an ordering terminal. 계산해 주세요 means ‘I’d like to pay, please.’ For a group, ask about splitting payment before relying on it. Keep any order slip that is brought to your table.
General practical guidance. Follow the instructions at the venue you visit. How we prepare our guides