Street food can be an easy meal or a relaxed way to explore a market. Check the menu, ingredients and payment method briefly, then choose at your own pace.
Start small instead of buying everything
Tteokbokki, gimbap, hotteok and fish cakes are among the choices you may see. With an unfamiliar dish, start with a small serving to judge flavour and heat before ordering more.
Look at price and serving unit
A displayed price may be for one piece, one skewer, one plate or one serving. Pointing to food, showing a number or using a translation screen is fine. Follow the queue to see whether people pay before or after receiving food.
Ask about heat and allergens before ordering
Chili paste, seafood, nuts, egg and wheat may appear in different dishes. Ask before ordering rather than guessing. With a serious allergy, remember that shared preparation areas and utensils can matter too.
Treat payment and seating as stall-specific
Cash and card acceptance, minimum payment and packaging costs vary. Keep another payment method available and check the amount before paying. Some places have standing space, shared tables or takeaway only.
Plan for hot food and rubbish
Fresh food and soup can be hard to carry while walking. Decide where to eat first, carry rubbish until an appropriate bin and avoid blocking busy market paths.
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