Conquering the Korean Subway: A Sandwich Odyssey (Without Getting Lost on the Subway)
Ah, Subway. A beacon of familiarity in a land of kimchi and bulgogi. But hold on to your kimbap, ordering a sub in Korea can be a slightly different experience than back home. Fear not, intrepid sandwich enthusiast, for this guide will equip you with the knowledge to navigate the Korean Subway like a seasoned pro (and avoid ending up with a surprise side of pickled radish on your Italian B.M.T).
How To Order Subway In Korea |
Step 1: Approaching the Counter with Confidence (Even if You Feel Like a Confused Alpaca)
Unlike their Western counterparts, Korean Subways often ask you to point out the ingredients you DON'T want. This can be a mind-bender for those used to the "pile it on" approach. Imagine the horror of accidentally requesting a sub devoid of all vegetables – a culinary wasteland!
Here's the trick: Just say "AAA, BBB.. ?? CCC? ??? (hago CCCman juseyo)", emphasizing the ? (man), which means "only." Replace AAA and BBB with the Korean names of the unwanted veggies (lettuce = ?? [sangchu], tomato = ??? [tomato]), and CCC with your desired additions (bacon = ??? [beikon]).
Bonus points: If you're feeling adventurous, ask for "? ?? ??? (deo manhi juseyo)" for more of a specific topping. Just be prepared for a gloriously overstuffed sandwich that might require two hands (and maybe a bib).
QuickTip: Stop and think when you learn something new.
Step 2: Embrace the Double Meat Option (Because Why Not?)
Here's where things get exciting, folks. Korean Subways offer a double meat option. This isn't just adding another layer of protein; it's more like a glorified half-sub. Perfect for those who crave a meaty mouthful without the commitment of a whole footlong.
Pro-tip: Pair the double meat option with a lighter bread option like 6-inch honey oat for a symphony of textures and flavors.
Step 3: To Toast or Not to Toast? That is the Question
This might seem like a no-brainer, but in Korea, toasting your bread isn't always the default. If you're a toasted-sub purist, simply say "??? ? ??? (toeseuteu haejuseyo)".
QuickTip: Read step by step, not all at once.
Word of caution: Koreans love their soft, fluffy bread, so toasting might be a bit lighter than you're used to.
Step 4: The Great Cut Debate (Or How to Avoid a Sabre-Toothed Sandwich)
Here's another cultural quirk: Korean Subways typically cut your sub in half before wrapping it. This can be startling for those expecting the classic footlong experience. Don't worry, though! You can request your sub to be kept whole by saying "? ?? ??? (an kkeut-eo juseyo)".
Just a heads up: A whole sub can be a bit of a wrestling match, so have some napkins handy (and maybe practice your best competitive eating stance).
Tip: Summarize each section in your own words.
FAQ: Frequently Asked Subway Adventures in Korea
Q: How to say "cheese" in Korean? A: ?? (chizu)
Q: How to ask for my receipt? A: ??? ??? (yeongsujeong juseyo)
Q: How to order a drink? A: Most Subways in Korea have beverage coolers. Grab your drink of choice and they'll ring it up at the counter.
Tip: Scroll slowly when the content gets detailed.
Q: How to pay? A: Cash and credit cards are widely accepted. Some locations might also take mobile payment options like KakaoPay.
Q: How to say "This is delicious!" in Korean? A: ???? (mas-isseoyo) – This will surely endear you to the staff (and maybe even score you a free cookie).