In Korean culture, food is more than just nourishment—it’s a powerful expression of respect, community, and tradition. When dining at a Korean fine dining restaurant, like Nuri Grill & Bar in Abu Dhabi, it’s not just the flavours that leave a lasting impression, but also the graceful rituals and etiquette that accompany each meal. Whether you’re a seasoned aficionado or new to Korean cuisine, understanding these dining customs allows you to experience the meal the way it’s meant to be: with mindfulness, gratitude, and a genuine appreciation for Korean culinary traditions.
Before diving into the specifics, it’s worth familiarising yourself with the Korean dining etiquette and traditions, especially if you’re planning to enjoy a luxurious Korean steak omakase or traditional barbecue. Every bite at a Korean table tells a story—and observing proper etiquette helps you become part of that narrative.
Why Table Manners Matter in Korean Fine Dining
In Korean fine dining, etiquette is integral to the meal itself. It’s a way of showing respect, especially to elders, and expressing harmony within a group. These practices are deeply rooted in Korean culinary traditions, passed down through generations and preserved in both home kitchens and modern restaurants alike.
You might not be expected to know every detail on your first visit, but making an effort goes a long way. The more you understand, the richer and more immersive your dining experience becomes.
Seating Etiquette: Let the Elders Lead
Traditionally, the oldest or highest-ranking person at the table sits first, and usually in the seat furthest from the door—symbolising honour and protection. Younger guests or those of lower rank are expected to wait until the elder is seated before taking their own place. If you’re dining at a Korean restaurant with business associates or a host, follow their lead.
Once everyone is seated, don’t immediately start eating. Wait until the eldest or host lifts their chopsticks or spoon first. It’s a gesture of deference and sets the tone for the rest of the meal.
Chopsticks and Spoons: How You Hold Them Matters
A key component of Korean culinary traditions is the use of both spoon and chopsticks during the meal. Unlike in Japanese or Chinese dining, the Korean spoon (called sutgarak) is used throughout the meal, not just for soup or rice. It’s placed to the right of the chopsticks, which are typically made of metal in fine dining settings.
A few quick rules:
- Never stick chopsticks upright into your rice. This resembles a ritual for the deceased.
- Don’t point with your chopsticks or wave them while talking.
- Use the spoon for rice and soups, and the chopsticks for side dishes and grilled meats.
When not in use, your utensils should be rested neatly on the provided holder or on the edge of your plate—not scattered or placed directly on the table.
Sharing and Serving: A Communal Experience
Korean meals are highly communal. Several small dishes—called banchan—are placed in the centre for everyone to share. In fine dining, these are often presented beautifully, each with its own role to play in balancing flavour and texture.
When sharing dishes:
- Use serving utensils if provided, or flip your chopsticks to use the clean end.
- Always offer to serve elders or guests first before helping yourself.
- Take modest portions; you can always go back for more.
At Nuri Grill & Bar, this spirit of sharing is especially pronounced during Korean barbecue or multi-course meals, where grilled meats, sauces, and wraps are enjoyed together.
Pace Yourself: Synchronise with the Table
Another key point in Korean culinary traditions is pacing. You’re encouraged to eat at the same rhythm as the rest of the table. Racing through your meal is considered impolite, and finishing too early might suggest you didn’t enjoy it.
During formal meals, conversation flows gently between courses. Eating slowly allows you to appreciate the flavours and textures, and engage in meaningful social interaction. It’s also respectful to remain seated until the eldest or host finishes their meal.
Alcohol Etiquette: Pour and Receive with Respect
In Korea, alcohol is often enjoyed as part of the dining experience—especially soju or makgeolli. And yes, there’s etiquette here too.
If you’re pouring for someone else, use both hands (or support your pouring hand with your opposite hand). When receiving a drink, also use both hands and slightly bow your head as a sign of gratitude—especially if the drink is offered by an elder.
Interestingly, it’s common for younger people to turn their heads slightly away while drinking in front of someone older, reflecting humility and courtesy.
Silence Between Courses Isn’t Awkward—It’s Appreciated
In Western cultures, silence during meals can feel awkward. In Korean fine dining, a bit of silence is welcomed. It allows guests to savour each dish, respect the chef’s craftsmanship, and reflect on the balance of flavours.
That doesn’t mean you shouldn’t talk, of course. But letting the meal take centre stage is very much in line with Korean culinary traditions.
Ending the Meal: Final Gestures
When the meal concludes, it’s polite to thank your host or the staff. If you’ve dined with others, especially elders or superiors, expressing appreciation—both verbally and through body language—closes the meal on a respectful note.
At fine dining venues like Nuri Grill & Bar, the experience is thoughtfully curated to reflect these customs. From the way dishes are served to how staff present the next course, everything is done with purpose. Embracing the etiquette adds an extra layer of appreciation to the culinary journey.
A Final Word on Respecting the Tradition
Dining in a Korean fine dining setting is like stepping into a story woven through centuries of history and social harmony. These table manners aren’t about rigidity—they’re about respect, connection, and a deeper enjoyment of food. By honouring these Korean culinary traditions, you’re not just eating well—you’re dining with cultural awareness and grace.
So next time you find yourself at a Korean fine dining table in Abu Dhabi or elsewhere, remember: every dish has a legacy, and every gesture is a sign of gratitude. Respect it, savour it, and most of all—enjoy every bite.
