Korean BBQ Etiquette: Do’s and Don’ts for First-Time Diners

Trying Korean BBQ for the first time? Welcome to a world of sizzling grills, flavorful meats, and vibrant side dishes! While the experience is fun and interactive, there’s also a set of cultural etiquette rules that help you enjoy the meal the way it was meant to be.

At Namoo Korean BBQ in Marina del Rey, we love welcoming newcomers and guiding them through the experience. Here’s your go-to guide for Korean BBQ etiquette—what to do, what not to do, and how to make your first visit smooth, delicious, and respectful.

✅ DO: Use Tongs for Grilling, Chopsticks for Eating

This is the golden rule. Tongs = grilling tool Chopsticks = eating utensil

🥢 Why it matters: Using chopsticks to handle raw meat is unhygienic. At Namoo, we always provide tongs for cooking so you can grill confidently—and cleanly.

❌ DON’T: Overcrowd the Grill

It's tempting to toss everything on the grill at once, especially when you're hungry. But doing so lowers the grill’s temperature and causes uneven cooking.

🔥 Pro Tip: Grill in small batches and enjoy the process. It’s part of the fun!

✅ DO: Wait for the Meat to Cook Properly Before Flipping

Resist the urge to flip constantly. Let the meat sear and develop a nice crust before turning it over.

⏱ For thin meats like brisket: flip once after 30–45 seconds.⏱ For marinated cuts like galbi: flip more often to avoid burning.

❌ DON’T: Cut in Line for the Side Dishes

Korean BBQ is all about sharing. The banchan (side dishes) are served to be enjoyed by the whole table, not hoarded.

🥗 Do this instead: Try a little of each, then ask the server politely for refills if needed (they’re usually complimentary!).

✅ DO: Build a Ssam (Lettuce Wrap)

This is one of the most authentic ways to eat Korean BBQ. A ssam combines grilled meat, rice, sauce, and banchan, all wrapped in a fresh lettuce leaf.

🥬 How to build it:

Take a lettuce or perilla leaf.
Add grilled meat.
Top with kimchi or pickled radish.
Add a dab of ssamjang.
Wrap and enjoy in one bite!

❌ DON’T: Pour Your Own Drink (If You’re with Others)

In Korean dining culture, it’s considered polite to pour drinks for others first—especially if you’re in a group or sharing soju.

🍶 Tip: If someone pours you a drink, hold your glass with both hands to show respect.

✅ DO: Ask Questions If You’re Not Sure

Our team at Namoo is always happy to help you choose the right cuts, show you how to grill, or explain side dishes and sauces. There’s no need to guess—just ask!

💬 Great questions to ask:

“What should I grill first?”
“Can I get a new grill plate?”
“How do I eat this with ssamjang?”

❌ DON’T: Waste Food

Korean BBQ is generous, but it’s also about respect for the food. Order what you’ll eat and finish your sides before asking for more.

💡 Tip: At Namoo, we recommend starting with a few items, then adding more as needed. This keeps your meal fresh and intentional.

✅ DO: Enjoy the Experience Together

Korean BBQ is social dining at its best. It’s a chance to share food, have fun grilling, and bond over great conversation and great flavors.

🎉 Whether it’s your first visit or your tenth, Korean BBQ is meant to be celebrated, not rushed.

🎉 Ready to Grill with Confidence? Visit Namoo Korean BBQ Today!

At Namoo Korean BBQ, we combine authentic tradition, premium ingredients, and warm hospitality to create a KBBQ experience that’s perfect for first-timers and seasoned pros alike.

📍 Join us at:13455 Maxella Ave Suite 270, Marina del Rey, CA 90292

📞 Make a reservation: 310-437-0291

👉 Book your table and grill like a pro—with all the right etiquette!

💡 Stay Connected

📸 Follow us on Instagram & Facebook: @namookbbq

🌐 See our full menu and seasonal specials: www.namookbbq.com

🔥 Come hungry, leave happy – only at Namoo Korean BBQ! 🔥