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Korea Food Guide · Guide 15

Korean Restaurants Worldwide

Korean cuisine has become one of the fastest-growing food cultures in the world. Today, authentic Korean restaurants can be found in major cities across North America, Europe, Asia, the Middle East, and Oceania.

Korean Restaurants Worldwide — ASK KOREA infographic
01 — Overview

Quick Summary

Korean cuisine has become one of the fastest-growing food cultures in the world. Today, authentic Korean restaurants can be found in major cities across North America, Europe, Asia, the Middle East, and Oceania.

Key takeaways

  • Korean restaurants are now available in major cities around the world.
  • Korean BBQ, Bibimbap, Bulgogi, and Fried Chicken are excellent first choices.
  • Authentic restaurants usually provide complimentary side dishes.
  • Sharing food is part of Korean dining culture.
  • Korean cuisine offers much more than spicy food.
  • Exploring Korean restaurants is a great way to continue your Korea experience after your trip.
02 — Full Guide

The Complete Guide

What Are Korean Restaurants Worldwide?

Korean cuisine has become one of the fastest-growing food cultures in the world. Today, authentic Korean restaurants can be found in major cities across North America, Europe, Asia, the Middle East, and Oceania.

Whether you are planning a trip to Korea or returning home after your visit, Korean restaurants around the world allow you to continue enjoying the flavors and culture of Korea.

From premium Korean BBQ restaurants to casual bibimbap cafés and modern fusion dining, Korean cuisine has become increasingly popular with people of all backgrounds.

Why Korean Food Is Popular Worldwide

Several factors have contributed to the rapid growth of Korean restaurants around the world.

  • The global popularity of K-dramas and K-pop
  • Growing interest in healthy and balanced cuisine
  • Increasing international tourism to Korea
  • The worldwide popularity of Korean BBQ
  • Expanding Korean communities overseas
  • Social media exposure through YouTube, Instagram, and TikTok
  • Today, Korean food is recognized as one of the world's most exciting and rapidly expanding cuisines.

Countries with Strong Korean Food Scenes

Excellent Korean restaurants can be found in many countries.

North America

  • United States
  • Canada

Europe

  • United Kingdom
  • France
  • Germany
  • Spain

Asia

  • Japan
  • China
  • Singapore
  • Thailand
  • Vietnam

Oceania

  • Australia
  • New Zealand

Middle East

  • United Arab Emirates
  • Qatar
  • Many large cities now have dedicated Korean neighborhoods or Korean restaurant districts.

Popular Korean Dishes to Order

If you are visiting a Korean restaurant for the first time, these dishes are excellent choices.

  • Korean BBQ
  • Bibimbap
  • Bulgogi
  • Kimchi Jjigae
  • Samgyetang
  • Japchae
  • Tteokbokki
  • Kimchi Fried Rice
  • Korean Fried Chicken
  • Naengmyeon
  • Sundubu Jjigae
  • These dishes are widely available and provide a great introduction to Korean cuisine.

How to Find Authentic Korean Restaurants

Finding an authentic Korean restaurant is easier when you look for a few simple signs.

  • Korean-language menus or bilingual menus
  • Korean staff or many Korean customers
  • Complimentary side dishes (Banchan)
  • Traditional Korean table settings
  • Fresh ingredients and house-made kimchi
  • Positive reviews from local Korean communities
  • Authenticity is often reflected in the overall dining experience rather than just the menu.

Dining Tips

To enjoy Korean restaurants like a local:

  • Share dishes with your group whenever possible.
  • Try several side dishes instead of ordering only one main meal.
  • Use lettuce wraps when eating Korean BBQ.
  • Don't hesitate to ask the staff for recommendations.
  • Enjoy Korean drinks responsibly with your meal.
  • Dining together is an important part of Korean food culture.

Common Mistakes

Many first-time visitors make a few common mistakes.

  • Ordering too much food
  • Ignoring complimentary side dishes
  • Expecting every restaurant to serve Korean BBQ
  • Assuming all Korean food is spicy
  • Mixing dishes incorrectly before tasting them
  • Not sharing food with the table
  • Understanding Korean dining customs makes the experience much more enjoyable.

Pro Tips

  • Visit Korean restaurants in Koreatowns whenever possible.
  • Try regional specialties beyond the most famous dishes.
  • Explore seasonal menu items.
  • Pair Korean BBQ with traditional side dishes.
  • Ask for recommendations if you are unfamiliar with the menu.
  • Support locally owned Korean restaurants for the most authentic experience.

Quick Summary

  • Korean restaurants are now available in major cities around the world.
  • Korean BBQ, Bibimbap, Bulgogi, and Fried Chicken are excellent first choices.
  • Authentic restaurants usually provide complimentary side dishes.
  • Sharing food is part of Korean dining culture.
  • Korean cuisine offers much more than spicy food.
  • Exploring Korean restaurants is a great way to continue your Korea experience after your trip.
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