Many restaurants in Korea have recently adopted reservation and waiting systems, and some no longer accept walk-in guests. While there are various types of these systems, most require a Korean phone number for registration or do not accept foreign credit cards for payment.

To address these inconveniences, CATCH TABLE, a service already popular among Koreans, has launched Catchtable Global specifically for foreign users. Catchtable Global offers a simple and convenient way for foreigners to make restaurant reservations and manage wait times in Korea.

What Is Catchtable Global?

Catchtable Global allows users to easily create an account through Google or Apple without the need for a Korean phone number and make payments using foreign-issued credit cards. The service currently supports English, Japanese, Simplified Chinese, and Traditional Chinese, significantly lowering language barriers. Its key features can be divided into two categories: restaurant reservations, and waiting, which includes additional options for both on-site and remote waiting.

Restaurant reservations and remote waiting follow a similar process. After searching for your preferred restaurant and accessing its details page, you’ll see the “Reserve” or “Join Remote Waitlist” buttons. The “Reserve” button appears for restaurants that accept reservations, allowing you to choose your preferred time slot. The “Join Remote Waitlist” button shows the current number of waiting teams in real time. For restaurants that only offer on-site waiting, no button will be visible; instead, you’ll find instructions on how to join the queue in person.

Many reservation-only restaurants require a deposit to prevent no-shows, which in Catchtable Global can only be paid with foreign-issued cards. Waiting, whether remote or on-site, does not require any deposit. Simply sign up, register for the waitlist, and arrive at the restaurant on time for your turn. However, for popular spots like London Bagel Museum or Sancheong Charcoal Garden, which often have long queues, be prepared for a longer wait. Be sure to check your notification emails for updates on your place in line or monitor your real-time wait status through the app.

If You Don’t Know Where to Go

Catchtable Global is also helpful if you’re unsure of where to dine. The local Korean version frequently recommends popular restaurants, while the global version highlights well-known establishments with high reservation volumes. On the main page, you can explore restaurants by cuisine type, region, or specific themes such as Michelin-starred establishments. Below are a few examples.

1. Confier

Confier, located in Seoul, is a reservation-only restaurant offering fine dining with seasonal Korean ingredients. Loved by travelers for its reasonable pricing and convenient location near Seoul Station, it is highly accessible and a top choice for those looking to experience Korea’s fine dining culture with a low entry barrier.

2. Perlen HAUS

Perlen HAUS is a specialty café with a unique concept, offering a variety of desserts paired with coffee. The pairing course and desserts change seasonally, making the seasonal menu one of the highlights you won’t want to miss. In addition to visually and tastefully satisfying desserts, Perlen HAUS also prides itself on its high-quality, freshly roasted coffee beans.

3. Lee Jaemo Pizza Busan Head Store

Having gained popularity among locals as a must-visit pizza spot, Lee Jaemo Pizza has now attracted even international visitors who travel to Busan just to try it. Known for its signature cheese crust that cascades like a waterfall when you lift a slice, this pizzeria is always bustling with long queues, as if people from all over the world have gathered. Often considered the “pizza of a lifetime,” it is highly recommended to reserve a table in advance if Busan is on your travel itinerary.

4. Sukseongdo Jeju Main Branch

Sukseongdo is a renowned restaurant specializing in Jeju’s famous black pork and is now expanding its branches across mainland Korea. Featured on numerous TV programs and YouTube channels, the restaurant is famous for its cross-aging technique, which enhances the flavor of the pork. Both reservations and waitlist services are available through Catchtable Global, offering flexible ways to visit. With five locations in Jeju alone, it’s easy to find one along your travel route.

5. Noraba

Jeju Island’s haenyeo (female divers) and the fresh seafood they harvest are a major attraction for both locals and tourists. Noraba captures Jeju’s rustic charm, serving seafood ramyeon made with broth prepared fresh each morning. To witness how a simple dish like ramyeon can be elevated to a gourmet experience, waiting in line is a must.

Catchtable Global features many more restaurants beyond those introduced above. If you’re planning a trip to Korea and are passionate about Korean cuisine, be sure to try the Catchtable Global version.

* This column was last updated in September 2024, and therefore information may differ from what is presented here. We advise you to check details before visiting.