Understanding Korean BBQ Etiquette

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Come Prepared to Cook

At Kimchi Korean BBQ places, you'll cook your own meat at the table. Don't be shy to grill the meat to your liking, but also be mindful of others' preferences if you're sharing the table.

Use the Provided Tongs and Scissors

You'll often find a pair of tongs and kitchen scissors at your table. Use the tongs to place meat on the grill and turn it, and the scissors to cut larger pieces into bite-sized ones. Avoid using your personal chopsticks to handle raw meat.

Cook Meat Gradually

Instead of crowding the grill with all the meat at once, cook a few pieces at a time. This ensures every piece is freshly cooked and enjoyed at its best.

Enjoy Banchan

Banchan, or side dishes, are a fundamental part of the meal. These are shared among everyone at the table, so take a small portion at a time to ensure there's enough to go around.

Lettuce Wraps (Ssam)

It's common to wrap grilled meat in a lettuce leaf with some ssamjang (a thick, spicy paste), rice, and perhaps a slice of garlic or chili. Eat the wrap in one bite if possible, as it's considered polite.

Respect the Staff and Space

Korean BBQ can be a lively affair, but it's important to respect the restaurant staff and other diners. Keep your voice at a moderate level and ensure your table's smoke and noise don't overwhelm neighboring tables.

Don't Waste Food

Order what you can consume, as wasting food is frowned upon. If you're unsure how much to order, ask the staff for recommendations.

Cleaning Up

While you're not expected to clean the grill yourself, you should generally leave the table tidy. Place any waste or used napkins in the appropriate bins provided.

A smiling family enjoying a Korean BBQ meal together at Kimchi restaurant in Selly Oak, Birmingham, with sizzling dishes and side plates on the table.

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