Handling “No Soy Sauce” Requests in Korean Restaurants

Dealing with dietary restrictions in a foreign language can feel daunting, especially when common ingredients like soy sauce are involved. Are you a waiter or restaurant staff member wondering how to professionally handle a customer’s request for a meal without soy sauce in Korean? Don’t worry! This guide provides the essential Korean phrases, communication strategies, and cultural insights you need. You’ll learn how to understand the request, confirm details, communicate with the kitchen, and ensure customer satisfaction, making the dining experience smooth and pleasant for everyone.

Core Expression: Confirming the Request

When a customer requests a modification, especially removing a key ingredient like soy sauce, clear confirmation is crucial. This phrase is a polite and direct way for a waiter to acknowledge and verify the customer’s need.

• Expression: 간장 빼 드릴까요?
  Pronunciation: gan-jang bbae deu-ril-kka-yo?
  Meaning: Shall I remove the soy sauce (for you)? / Would you like it without soy sauce?

This expression, 간장 빼 드릴까요? (gan-jang bbae deu-ril-kka-yo?), is fundamental for service staff. 간장 (gan-jang) means “soy sauce,” 빼다 (bbae-da) means “to remove” or “to leave out,” and -드릴까요? (-deu-ril-kka-yo?) is a polite suffix combination meaning “Shall I do (something) for you?”. Using this phrase shows attentiveness and confirms you’ve understood the customer’s dietary restriction before proceeding.

It opens the door for further discussion, such as checking with the kitchen or suggesting alternatives if removing soy sauce significantly alters the dish. This polite confirmation sets a professional tone and assures the customer their request is being taken seriously. It’s a versatile phrase applicable whenever a customer asks to omit an ingredient.

Key Expressions: Taking the Order and Understanding Restrictions

When a customer mentions a dietary need like avoiding soy sauce, the first step is to understand the request clearly and gather necessary information. These phrases help in politely inquiring about restrictions and confirming the order details.

• Expression: 네, 손님. 어떤 메뉴를 원하세요?
  Pronunciation: ne, son-nim. eo-tteon me-nyu-reul won-ha-se-yo?
  Meaning: Yes, customer. Which menu item would you like?
• Expression: 혹시 알레르기 있으신가요?
  Pronunciation: hok-shi al-le-reu-gi i-sseu-shin-ga-yo?
  Meaning: Do you happen to have any allergies?
• Expression: 간장을 못 드시는 특별한 이유가 있으신가요?
  Pronunciation: gan-jang-eul mot deu-shi-neun teuk-byeol-han i-yu-ga i-sseu-shin-ga-yo?
  Meaning: Is there a specific reason you cannot eat soy sauce?
• Expression: 이 메뉴에는 기본적으로 간장이 들어갑니다.
  Pronunciation: i me-nyu-e-neun gi-bon-jeok-eu-ro gan-jang-i deu-reo-gam-ni-da.
  Meaning: This menu item basically contains soy sauce.
• Expression: 간장 없이 조리 가능한지 확인해 보겠습니다.
  Pronunciation: gan-jang eop-shi jo-ri ga-neung-han-ji hwa-gin-hae bo-get-seum-ni-da.
  Meaning: I will check if it’s possible to cook it without soy sauce.
• Expression: 다른 못 드시는 재료는 없으신가요?
  Pronunciation: da-reun mot deu-shi-neun jae-ryo-neun eop-seu-shin-ga-yo?
  Meaning: Are there any other ingredients you cannot eat?
• Expression: 그럼 이 메뉴는 간장 빼고 준비해 드릴까요?
  Pronunciation: geu-reom i me-nyu-neun gan-jang bbae-go jun-bi-hae deu-ril-kka-yo?
  Meaning: Then, shall I prepare this menu item without soy sauce for you?
• Expression: 주문 확인해 드리겠습니다. [메뉴 이름], 간장 없이 맞으신가요?
  Pronunciation: ju-mun hwa-gin-hae deu-ri-get-seum-ni-da. [me-nyu i-reum], gan-jang eop-shi ma-jeu-shin-ga-yo?
  Meaning: I will confirm your order. [Menu Name], without soy sauce, is that correct?
• Expression: 간장 대신 다른 양념으로 간을 맞춰 드릴까요?
  Pronunciation: gan-jang dae-sin da-reun yang-nyeom-eu-ro gan-eul mat-chwo deu-ril-kka-yo?
  Meaning: Shall I season it with a different seasoning instead of soy sauce?
• Expression: 예를 들어 소금이나 후추로 간을 해 드릴 수 있습니다.
  Pronunciation: ye-reul deu-reo so-geum-i-na hu-chu-ro gan-eul hae deu-ril su it-seum-ni-da.
  Meaning: For example, we can season it with salt or pepper.
• Expression: 잠시만 기다려 주시면 주방에 확인하고 오겠습니다.
  Pronunciation: jam-shi-man gi-da-ryeo ju-shi-myeon ju-bang-e hwa-gin-ha-go o-get-seum-ni-da.
  Meaning: If you wait just a moment, I will check with the kitchen and come back.
• Expression: 알겠습니다. 요청하신 대로 준비하겠습니다.
  Pronunciation: al-get-seum-ni-da. yo-cheong-ha-shin dae-ro jun-bi-ha-get-seum-ni-da.
  Meaning: Understood. I will prepare it as you requested.
• Expression: 혹시 간장 외에 다른 소스도 피해야 하시나요?
  Pronunciation: hok-shi gan-jang oe-e da-reun so-seu-do pi-hae-ya ha-shi-na-yo?
  Meaning: Do you perhaps need to avoid other sauces besides soy sauce?
• Expression: 저희 메뉴 중에는 간장이 안 들어가는 [메뉴 이름]도 있습니다.
  Pronunciation: jeo-hui me-nyu jung-e-neun gan-jang-i an deu-reo-ga-neun [me-nyu i-reum]-do it-seum-ni-da.
  Meaning: Among our menu items, there is also [Menu Name] which does not contain soy sauce.
• Expression: 고객님의 요청 사항을 정확히 전달하겠습니다.
  Pronunciation: go-gaek-nim-ui yo-cheong sa-hang-eul jeong-hwak-hi jeon-dal-ha-get-seum-ni-da.
  Meaning: I will accurately convey your request.

These phrases cover the initial interaction, from understanding the basic request to probing for allergies or other restrictions. It’s important to clarify if the avoidance is due to allergy or preference, as this might affect how strictly ingredients need to be controlled. Confirming the order clearly ensures accuracy before sending it to the kitchen.

Key Expressions: Communicating with the Kitchen

Once the customer’s request is understood, the waiter needs to communicate effectively with the kitchen staff. Precision is key to ensure the dish is prepared correctly according to the dietary restriction.

• Expression: 주방장님, [테이블 번호]번 테이블 손님 요청입니다.
  Pronunciation: ju-bang-jang-nim, [te-i-beul beon-ho]-beon te-i-beul son-nim yo-cheong-im-ni-da.
  Meaning: Chef, this is a request from table number [Table Number].
• Expression: [메뉴 이름] 주문인데, 간장 빼고 조리 가능할까요?
  Pronunciation: [me-nyu i-reum] ju-mun-in-de, gan-jang bbae-go jo-ri ga-neung-hal-kka-yo?
  Meaning: It’s an order for [Menu Name], is it possible to cook it without soy sauce?
• Expression: 손님께서 간장 알레르기가 있으시대요.
  Pronunciation: son-nim-kke-seo gan-jang al-le-reu-gi-ga i-sseu-shi-dae-yo.
  Meaning: The customer says they have a soy sauce allergy.
• Expression: 이 요리에서 간장을 완전히 제거할 수 있나요?
  Pronunciation: i yo-ri-e-seo gan-jang-eul wan-jeon-hi je-geo-hal su in-na-yo?
  Meaning: Can soy sauce be completely removed from this dish?
• Expression: 간장 대신 소금으로 간 맞춰주세요.
  Pronunciation: gan-jang dae-sin so-geum-eu-ro gan mat-chwo-ju-se-yo.
  Meaning: Please season it with salt instead of soy sauce.
• Expression: 혹시 소스나 육수에 간장이 포함되어 있나요?
  Pronunciation: hok-shi so-seu-na yuk-su-e gan-jang-i po-ham-doe-eo in-na-yo?
  Meaning: Is soy sauce perhaps included in the sauce or broth?
• Expression: 교차 오염되지 않도록 주의해 주세요.
  Pronunciation: gyo-cha o-yeom-doe-ji an-to-rok ju-ui-hae ju-se-yo.
  Meaning: Please be careful to avoid cross-contamination.
• Expression: 특별 주문입니다. 신경 써서 부탁드립니다.
  Pronunciation: teuk-byeol ju-mun-im-ni-da. shin-gyeong sseo-seo bu-tak-deu-rim-ni-da.
  Meaning: This is a special order. Please pay close attention.
• Expression: 만약 간장을 빼기 어렵다면, 손님께 다른 메뉴를 추천해야 할 것 같습니다.
  Pronunciation: man-yak gan-jang-eul bbae-gi eo-ryeop-da-myeon, son-nim-kke da-reun me-nyu-reul chu-cheon-hae-ya hal geot gat-seum-ni-da.
  Meaning: If it’s difficult to remove the soy sauce, I think I’ll have to recommend another menu item to the customer.
• Expression: 간장 없이 조리 가능하다고 손님께 전달해도 될까요?
  Pronunciation: gan-jang eop-shi jo-ri ga-neung-ha-da-go son-nim-kke jeon-dal-hae-do doel-kka-yo?
  Meaning: Can I tell the customer it’s possible to cook it without soy sauce?
• Expression: 네, 알겠습니다. 손님께 그렇게 안내하겠습니다.
  Pronunciation: ne, al-get-seum-ni-da. son-nim-kke geu-reot-ke an-nae-ha-get-seum-ni-da.
  Meaning: Yes, understood. I will inform the customer accordingly.
• Expression: 이 주문은 따로 표시해서 실수 없도록 해주세요.
  Pronunciation: i ju-mun-eun tta-ro pyo-shi-hae-seo shil-su eop-do-rok hae-ju-se-yo.
  Meaning: Please mark this order separately so there are no mistakes.
• Expression: 조리 시간은 평소와 동일한가요, 아니면 더 걸릴까요?
  Pronunciation: jo-ri shi-gan-eun pyeong-so-wa dong-il-han-ga-yo, a-ni-myeon deo geol-lil-kka-yo?
  Meaning: Will the cooking time be the same as usual, or will it take longer?
• Expression: 완성되면 바로 알려주세요. 손님께 확인시켜 드려야 합니다.
  Pronunciation: wan-seong-doe-myeon ba-ro al-lyeo-ju-se-yo. son-nim-kke hwa-gin-shi-kyeo deu-ryeo-ya ham-ni-da.
  Meaning: Please let me know immediately when it’s ready. I need to confirm it with the customer.
• Expression: 감사합니다, 주방장님. 잘 부탁드립니다.
  Pronunciation: gam-sa-ham-ni-da, ju-bang-jang-nim. jal bu-tak-deu-rim-ni-da.
  Meaning: Thank you, Chef. I’m counting on you.

Clear and concise communication with the kitchen is vital. Specifying the reason (allergy vs. preference), asking about hidden sources of soy sauce (like marinades or broths), and requesting precautions against cross-contamination are all important steps. Confirming feasibility before promising the customer is also crucial.

Key Expressions: Confirming with the Customer and Serving

After checking with the kitchen, the waiter needs to relay the information back to the customer, confirm the final plan, and serve the dish appropriately. Maintaining clear communication ensures the customer feels confident and well-cared for.

• Expression: 손님, 주방에 확인해 보았습니다.
  Pronunciation: son-nim, ju-bang-e hwa-gin-hae bo-at-seum-ni-da.
  Meaning: Customer, I have checked with the kitchen.
• Expression: 네, 요청하신 대로 [메뉴 이름] 간장 빼고 조리 가능합니다.
  Pronunciation: ne, yo-cheong-ha-shin dae-ro [me-nyu i-reum] gan-jang bbae-go jo-ri ga-neung-ham-ni-da.
  Meaning: Yes, as you requested, [Menu Name] can be cooked without soy sauce.
• Expression: 죄송하지만, 이 메뉴는 간장 없이는 맛을 내기가 어렵다고 합니다.
  Pronunciation: joe-song-ha-ji-man, i me-nyu-neun gan-jang eop-shi-neun mat-eul nae-gi-ga eo-ryeop-da-go ham-ni-da.
  Meaning: I apologize, but they say it’s difficult to make this dish flavorful without soy sauce.
• Expression: 대신 간장이 들어가지 않는 다른 메뉴를 추천해 드려도 괜찮을까요?
  Pronunciation: dae-sin gan-jang-i deu-reo-ga-ji an-neun da-reun me-nyu-reul chu-cheon-hae deu-ryeo-do gwaen-chan-eul-kka-yo?
  Meaning: Instead, would it be alright if I recommended another menu item that doesn’t contain soy sauce?
• Expression: 예를 들어, [다른 메뉴 이름]은 간장을 사용하지 않습니다.
  Pronunciation: ye-reul deu-reo, [da-reun me-nyu i-reum]-eun gan-jang-eul sa-yong-ha-ji an-seum-ni-da.
  Meaning: For example, [Another Menu Name] does not use soy sauce.
• Expression: 간장 대신 소금과 후추로 간을 맞춰 드리겠습니다. 괜찮으신가요?
  Pronunciation: gan-jang dae-sin so-geum-gwa hu-chu-ro gan-eul mat-chwo deu-ri-get-seum-ni-da. gwaen-chan-eu-shin-ga-yo?
  Meaning: We will season it with salt and pepper instead of soy sauce. Is that alright with you?
• Expression: 주문하신 [메뉴 이름], 간장 빼고 나왔습니다.
  Pronunciation: ju-mun-ha-shin [me-nyu i-reum], gan-jang bbae-go na-wat-seum-ni-da.
  Meaning: Your ordered [Menu Name] has come out, without soy sauce.
• Expression: 특별히 요청하신 대로 간장 없이 조리했습니다.
  Pronunciation: teuk-byeol-hi yo-cheong-ha-shin dae-ro gan-jang eop-shi jo-ri-haet-seum-ni-da.
  Meaning: We cooked it without soy sauce as you specifically requested.
• Expression: 맛은 어떠신가요? 괜찮으신가요?
  Pronunciation: mat-eun eo-tteo-shin-ga-yo? gwaen-chan-eu-shin-ga-yo?
  Meaning: How is the taste? Is it alright?
• Expression: 혹시 더 필요하신 것 있으시면 말씀해 주세요.
  Pronunciation: hok-shi deo pil-yo-ha-shin geot i-sseu-shi-myeon mal-sseum-hae ju-se-yo.
  Meaning: If there is anything else you need, please tell me.
• Expression: 맛있게 드세요.
  Pronunciation: ma-shit-ge deu-se-yo.
  Meaning: Enjoy your meal.
• Expression: 간장 없이 조리하느라 시간이 조금 더 걸렸습니다. 양해 부탁드립니다.
  Pronunciation: gan-jang eop-shi jo-ri-ha-neu-ra shi-gan-i jo-geum deo geol-lyeot-seum-ni-da. yang-hae bu-tak-deu-rim-ni-da.
  Meaning: It took a little longer because we cooked it without soy sauce. Thank you for your understanding.
• Expression: 혹시 드시다가 간이 부족하시면 소금이나 후추를 더 드릴까요?
  Pronunciation: hok-shi deu-shi-da-ga gan-i bu-jok-ha-shi-myeon so-geum-i-na hu-chu-reul deo deu-ril-kka-yo?
  Meaning: If you find the seasoning insufficient while eating, shall I bring you more salt or pepper?
• Expression: 네, 확인 감사합니다. 그럼 [메뉴 이름] 간장 없이 준비해 드리겠습니다.
  Pronunciation: ne, hwa-gin gam-sa-ham-ni-da. geu-reom [me-nyu i-reum] gan-jang eop-shi jun-bi-hae deu-ri-get-seum-ni-da.
  Meaning: Yes, thank you for confirming. Then, I will prepare [Menu Name] without soy sauce for you.
• Expression: 식사는 만족스러우셨나요?
  Pronunciation: shik-sa-neun man-jok-seu-reo-u-shyeot-na-yo?
  Meaning: Was your meal satisfactory?

Relaying the kitchen’s response clearly is crucial. If the request can be accommodated, confirm the details (like alternative seasoning). If not, politely explain why and suggest alternatives. When serving, explicitly state that the dish was prepared as requested (“without soy sauce”) to reassure the customer. Checking on their satisfaction afterwards shows good service.

How to Apply in Real Life: Key Points

Handling dietary restrictions like “no soy sauce” requires careful communication and attention to detail. Here are some practical tips for restaurant staff:

• Listen Carefully and Clarify: When a customer mentions avoiding soy sauce, listen attentively. Ask clarifying questions like “혹시 알레르기 때문에 그러신가요?” (hok-shi al-le-reu-gi ttae-mun-e geu-reo-shin-ga-yo? – Is it perhaps because of an allergy?). Understanding the reason (allergy vs. preference) helps determine the necessary level of caution.
• Know Your Menu: Be familiar with which dishes inherently contain soy sauce (marinades, sauces, broths) and which can be easily modified. Knowing potential “hidden” sources is crucial. If unsure, always state “주방에 확인해 보겠습니다” (ju-bang-e hwa-gin-hae bo-get-seum-ni-da – I will check with the kitchen) rather than guessing.
• Communicate Clearly with the Kitchen: Use precise language when relaying the order. Specify the table number, menu item, and the exact modification: “[메뉴 이름], 간장 완전히 빼주세요. 알레르기 손님입니다.” ([me-nyu i-reum], gan-jang wan-jeon-hi bbae-ju-se-yo. al-le-reu-gi son-nim-im-ni-da – [Menu Name], please remove soy sauce completely. It’s for a customer with an allergy.). Emphasize the need to avoid cross-contamination if it’s an allergy.
• Manage Expectations: If removing soy sauce is impossible or significantly changes the dish, be honest with the customer. Explain politely, for example: “죄송하지만, 이 요리는 간장이 필수적인 재료라 빼기가 어렵습니다.” (joe-song-ha-ji-man, i yo-ri-neun gan-jang-i pil-su-jeok-in jae-ryo-ra bbae-gi-ga eo-ryeop-seum-ni-da – I apologize, but soy sauce is an essential ingredient for this dish, so it’s difficult to remove.) Then, offer suitable alternatives.
• Offer Alternatives: Suggest dishes that naturally don’t contain soy sauce or propose simple modifications like seasoning with salt and pepper (소금과 후추 – so-geum-gwa hu-chu). “간장 대신 소금으로 간을 해 드릴까요?” (gan-jang dae-sin so-geum-eu-ro gan-eul hae deu-ril-kka-yo? – Shall I season it with salt instead of soy sauce?) shows proactivity.
• Confirm Upon Serving: When delivering the food, reassure the customer by explicitly mentioning the modification: “요청하신 대로 간장 없이 준비했습니다.” (yo-cheong-ha-shin dae-ro gan-jang eop-shi jun-bi-haet-seum-ni-da – We prepared it without soy sauce as you requested.) This builds trust.
• Follow Up: Check back briefly after the customer has started eating: “맛은 괜찮으신가요?” (mat-eun gwaen-chan-eu-shin-ga-yo? – Is the taste alright?). This shows care and allows for any immediate adjustments if needed (e.g., providing extra salt).

Korean Culture Notes

Understanding the cultural context surrounding food and dining in Korea can significantly help in handling dietary requests smoothly and professionally.

Prevalence of Soy Sauce (간장 – Gan-jang): Soy sauce is arguably one of the most fundamental ingredients in Korean cuisine, perhaps even more ubiquitous than in some other East Asian culinary traditions. It’s not just used as a dipping sauce but forms the base for countless marinades (불고기 – bulgogi, 갈비 – galbi), stews (찌개 – jjigae), braised dishes (조림 – jorim), and side dishes (반찬 – banchan). Many soup bases (육수 – yuksu) also incorporate soy sauce, sometimes a special type called 국간장 (guk-gan-jang – soup soy sauce). Therefore, a request for “no soy sauce” can be genuinely challenging for certain dishes, as it might require altering the core recipe significantly or omitting a key flavor component. Staff should be aware that completely removing soy sauce might not always be feasible without fundamentally changing the dish or potentially making it bland by Korean standards. Communicating this limitation politely is important.

Attitudes Towards Dietary Restrictions and Allergies: While awareness of food allergies and dietary restrictions is growing in Korea, it might not be as ingrained in the restaurant industry as in some Western countries. Historically, specific food avoidance was less common unless tied to religious or strong health reasons. Therefore, staff might sometimes need more explicit clarification about the severity (allergy vs. preference). Using clear terms like 알레르기 (al-le-reu-gi – allergy) is crucial. It’s also important to understand that cross-contamination awareness might vary between establishments. For severe allergies, emphasizing the need for caution (교차 오염 주의 – gyo-cha o-yeom ju-ui) is essential. Customers making requests should also be patient and clear, understanding that the kitchen might need extra time or clarification to handle the request safely.

Service Culture and Communication Style: Korean service culture (서비스 – seo-bi-seu) generally emphasizes efficiency and politeness. Staff aim to be helpful, but directness in communication is also common. When checking with the kitchen, the waiter will likely be direct. When relaying information back, they will use polite language (존댓말 – jondaetmal). If a request cannot be met, the explanation might be brief but should still be polite (죄송하지만… – joe-song-ha-ji-man… – I’m sorry, but…). Customers should also use polite language when making requests. While staff want to accommodate, overly complex or numerous modifications might be difficult, especially during busy times. Framing the request clearly and politely, like “혹시 간장 빼고 가능한가요?” (hok-shi gan-jang bbae-go ga-neung-han-ga-yo? – Is it perhaps possible without soy sauce?), is generally well-received. Understanding this balance of efficiency, politeness, and directness helps navigate the interaction smoothly.

Real Conversation Example

Here’s a sample dialogue between a customer requesting no soy sauce and a waiter handling the request in a Korean restaurant.

Situation: A foreign customer (B) is ordering food at a Korean restaurant and needs to avoid soy sauce due to a dietary restriction. The waiter (A) assists them.

Roles:
* A: Waiter (종업원 – jong-eop-won)
* B: Customer (손님 – son-nim)

• Expression: A: 어서 오세요. 주문하시겠어요?
  Pronunciation: eo-seo o-se-yo. ju-mun-ha-shi-get-seo-yo?
  Meaning: Welcome. Are you ready to order?
• Expression: B: 네. 이 비빔밥 하나 주세요. 그런데 제가 간장을 못 먹어서요. 혹시 간장 빼고 주실 수 있나요?
  Pronunciation: ne. i bi-bim-bap ha-na ju-se-yo. geu-reon-de je-ga gan-jang-eul mot meok-eo-seo-yo. hok-shi gan-jang bbae-go ju-shil su in-na-yo?
  Meaning: Yes. One Bibimbap, please. However, I cannot eat soy sauce. Is it perhaps possible to have it without soy sauce?
• Expression: A: 아, 간장을 못 드시는군요. 혹시 알레르기 때문에 그러신가요?
  Pronunciation: a, gan-jang-eul mot deu-shi-neun-gun-yo. hok-shi al-le-reu-gi ttae-mun-e geu-reo-shin-ga-yo?
  Meaning: Ah, you cannot eat soy sauce. Is it perhaps because of an allergy?
• Expression: B: 네, 맞아요. 간장 알레르기가 있어요.
  Pronunciation: ne, ma-ja-yo. gan-jang al-le-reu-gi-ga i-sseo-yo.
  Meaning: Yes, that’s right. I have a soy sauce allergy.
• Expression: A: 알겠습니다. 비빔밥에는 보통 나물에 간장이 조금 들어가는데, 주방에 확인해 보겠습니다. 잠시만 기다려 주세요.
  Pronunciation: al-get-seum-ni-da. bi-bim-bap-e-neun bo-tong na-mul-e gan-jang-i jo-geum deu-reo-ga-neun-de, ju-bang-e hwa-gin-hae bo-get-seum-ni-da. jam-shi-man gi-da-ryeo ju-se-yo.
  Meaning: Understood. Usually, the vegetables (namul) in bibimbap contain a little soy sauce, but I will check with the kitchen. Please wait just a moment.
• Expression: B: 네, 감사합니다.
  Pronunciation: ne, gam-sa-ham-ni-da.
  Meaning: Yes, thank you.
• Expression: A: (잠시 후 돌아와서) 손님, 주방에 확인했습니다. 나물에 간장을 사용하지 않고 소금으로만 간을 해서 비빔밥을 만들어 드릴 수 있다고 합니다. 괜찮으시겠어요?
  Pronunciation: (jam-shi hu dol-a-wa-seo) son-nim, ju-bang-e hwa-gin-haet-seum-ni-da. na-mul-e gan-jang-eul sa-yong-ha-ji an-ko so-geum-eu-ro-man gan-eul hae-seo bi-bim-bap-eul man-deul-eo deu-ril su it-da-go ham-ni-da. gwaen-chan-eu-shi-get-seo-yo?
  Meaning: (Returning after a moment) Customer, I’ve checked with the kitchen. They say they can make the bibimbap by seasoning the vegetables only with salt, without using soy sauce. Would that be alright with you?
• Expression: B: 네, 좋아요! 그렇게 해 주세요. 고추장 소스는 따로 주시고요.
  Pronunciation: ne, jo-a-yo! geu-reot-ke hae ju-se-yo. go-chu-jang so-seu-neun tta-ro ju-shi-go-yo.
  Meaning: Yes, that’s great! Please do it that way. And please give the gochujang (red pepper paste) sauce separately.
• Expression: A: 알겠습니다. 비빔밥 하나, 나물 간장 없이 소금으로 간하고, 고추장은 따로 준비해 드리겠습니다.
  Pronunciation: al-get-seum-ni-da. bi-bim-bap ha-na, na-mul gan-jang eop-shi so-geum-eu-ro gan-ha-go, go-chu-jang-eun tta-ro jun-bi-hae deu-ri-get-seum-ni-da.
  Meaning: Understood. One bibimbap, vegetables seasoned with salt without soy sauce, and gochujang prepared separately.
• Expression: A: (음식을 가져와서) 주문하신 비빔밥 나왔습니다. 요청하신 대로 나물에 간장 없이 소금으로 간했고, 고추장은 여기 따로 드립니다. 맛있게 드세요.
  Pronunciation: (eum-shik-eul ga-jyeo-wa-seo) ju-mun-ha-shin bi-bim-bap na-wat-seum-ni-da. yo-cheong-ha-shin dae-ro na-mul-e gan-jang eop-shi so-geum-eu-ro gan-haet-go, go-chu-jang-eun yeo-gi tta-ro deu-rim-ni-da. ma-shit-ge deu-se-yo.
  Meaning: (Bringing the food) Your ordered bibimbap is here. As requested, the vegetables were seasoned with salt without soy sauce, and the gochujang is provided separately here. Enjoy your meal.

Conversation Points:

1. Clarifying the Reason: The waiter immediately asks if the restriction is due to an allergy (알레르기 때문에 그러신가요?). This is crucial for safety.
2. Managing Expectations & Checking: The waiter correctly identifies that bibimbap usually contains soy sauce in the vegetables (나물) and states they will check with the kitchen (주방에 확인해 보겠습니다), rather than making assumptions.
3. Offering Specific Solution: After checking, the waiter confirms a specific solution: seasoning with salt instead (소금으로만 간을 해서).
4. Confirming the Order Details: The waiter repeats the modified order clearly before placing it and again when serving.
5. Handling Related Items: The customer proactively asks for the gochujang sauce separately, which the waiter confirms. This shows attention to detail regarding all components of the dish.

Detailed Expression Analysis:

• 간장을 못 먹어서요 (gan-jang-eul mot meok-eo-seo-yo): “Because I cannot eat soy sauce.” The particle -서요 (-seo-yo) adds a nuance of explaining the reason politely in conversation. 못 먹다 (mot meok-da) means “cannot eat,” often implying an inability (like an allergy or intolerance) rather than just dislike.
• 나물에 간장이 조금 들어가는데 (na-mul-e gan-jang-i jo-geum deu-reo-ga-neun-de): “Soy sauce goes into the vegetables (namul) a little, but…” The -는데 (-neun-de) ending provides background information before asking a question or making a statement (in this case, before saying “I will check”). It acknowledges the usual preparation method.
• 소금으로만 간을 해서… 만들어 드릴 수 있다고 합니다 (so-geum-eu-ro-man gan-eul hae-seo… man-deul-eo deu-ril su it-da-go ham-ni-da): “They say they can make it for you… by seasoning only with salt.” -으로만 (-eu-ro-man) means “only with/by means of.” 간을 하다 (gan-eul ha-da) means “to season.” -어/아 드릴 수 있다 (-eo/a deu-ril su it-da) means “can do (something) for you (polite).” -다고 합니다 (-da-go ham-ni-da) is reported speech, “they say that…”. This structure clearly conveys the information received from the kitchen.

Additional Useful Information: Expressions Worth Knowing

Beyond the core interactions, several other factors and related expressions can be helpful when dealing with soy sauce restrictions in Korean restaurants.

1. Discussing Hidden Soy Sauce Sources:
Soy sauce isn’t always obvious. It’s often used in marinades, broths, dipping sauces served on the side, and even some types of kimchi or fermented pastes. Waitstaff should be aware of these possibilities and know how to inquire or inform.

• Expression: 이 요리의 소스에도 간장이 들어가나요?
  Pronunciation: i yo-ri-ui so-seu-e-do gan-jang-i deu-reo-ga-na-yo?
  Meaning: Does the sauce for this dish also contain soy sauce?
• Expression: 고기를 재울 때 간장을 사용하나요?
  Pronunciation: go-gi-reul jae-ul ttae gan-jang-eul sa-yong-ha-na-yo?
  Meaning: Do you use soy sauce when marinating the meat?
• Expression: 국물 베이스에 간장이 포함되어 있습니까?
  Pronunciation: guk-mul be-i-seu-e gan-jang-i po-ham-doe-eo it-seum-ni-kka?
  Meaning: Is soy sauce included in the soup base?
• Expression: 반찬 중에도 간장이 들어간 것이 있나요?
  Pronunciation: ban-chan jung-e-do gan-jang-i deu-reo-gan geot-i in-na-yo?
  Meaning: Are there any side dishes (banchan) that contain soy sauce?
• Expression: 저희는 모든 육수와 대부분의 소스에 간장을 기본으로 사용합니다.
  Pronunciation: jeo-hui-neun mo-deun yuk-su-wa dae-bu-bun-ui so-seu-e gan-jang-eul gi-bon-eu-ro sa-yong-ham-ni-da.
  Meaning: We basically use soy sauce in all broths and most sauces.

Being able to discuss these less obvious sources is crucial, especially for customers with severe allergies. If the restaurant uses pre-made bases or marinades, it might be impossible to guarantee they are soy-free.

2. Suggesting Soy-Free Alternatives:
If the chosen dish cannot be modified, suggesting naturally soy-free options is helpful. This requires knowledge of the menu.

• Expression: 간장이 안 들어가는 메뉴로는 어떤 것이 있나요?
  Pronunciation: gan-jang-i an deu-reo-ga-neun me-nyu-ro-neun eo-tteon geot-i in-na-yo?
  Meaning: What kinds of menu items are there that don’t contain soy sauce? (Customer question)
• Expression: 저희 메뉴 중에는 소금구이나 맑은 탕 종류는 간장을 사용하지 않습니다.
  Pronunciation: jeo-hui me-nyu jung-e-neun so-geum-gu-i-na mal-geun tang jong-ryu-neun gan-jang-eul sa-yong-ha-ji an-seum-ni-da.
  Meaning: Among our menu items, salt-grilled dishes (sogeum-gui) or clear soup types (malgeun tang) do not use soy sauce.
• Expression: 삼겹살 구이는 보통 간장 없이 소금과 후추, 기름장에 찍어 드십니다.
  Pronunciation: sam-gyeop-sal gu-i-neun bo-tong gan-jang eop-shi so-geum-gwa hu-chu, gi-reum-jang-e jjik-eo deu-shim-ni-da.
  Meaning: Grilled pork belly (samgyeopsal) is usually eaten without soy sauce, dipped in salt, pepper, and sesame oil sauce.
• Expression: 백김치나 동치미 같은 일부 김치 종류는 간장을 사용하지 않습니다.
  Pronunciation: baek-gim-chi-na dong-chi-mi ga-teun il-bu gim-chi jong-ryu-neun gan-jang-eul sa-yong-ha-ji an-seum-ni-da.
  Meaning: Some types of kimchi, like white kimchi (baek-kimchi) or radish water kimchi (dongchimi), do not use soy sauce.

Knowing specific examples like 소금구이 (so-geum-gu-i – salt-grilled meat/fish), 삼계탕 (sam-gye-tang – ginseng chicken soup, usually seasoned with salt), or certain types of 백반 (baek-ban – simple meal set) where components can be controlled, allows the waiter to provide concrete suggestions.

3. Explaining Potential Taste Differences:
Removing a key flavoring like soy sauce can alter the taste profile expected by regular customers. Gently managing expectations about this can be useful.

• Expression: 간장을 빼면 원래 요리의 맛과 조금 다를 수 있습니다.
  Pronunciation: gan-jang-eul bbae-myeon won-lae yo-ri-ui mat-gwa jo-geum da-reul su it-seum-ni-da.
  Meaning: If we remove the soy sauce, the taste might be slightly different from the original dish.
• Expression: 저희가 소금으로 간을 맞춰 드리겠지만, 간장의 감칠맛은 없을 수 있습니다.
  Pronunciation: jeo-hui-ga so-geum-eu-ro gan-eul mat-chwo deu-ri-get-ji-man, gan-jang-ui gam-chil-mat-eun eop-seul su it-seum-ni-da.
  Meaning: We will season it with salt for you, but the umami flavor of soy sauce might be missing.
• Expression: 괜찮으시다면, 드셔보시고 간이 부족하면 소금을 더 요청해 주세요.
  Pronunciation: gwaen-chan-eu-shi-da-myeon, deu-shyeo-bo-shi-go gan-i bu-jok-ha-myeon so-geum-eul deo yo-cheong-hae ju-se-yo.
  Meaning: If it’s alright, please try it first, and if the seasoning is insufficient, please request more salt.

This manages expectations politely without discouraging the customer. It shows an understanding of flavor profiles while still accommodating the request.

Core Elements of the Topic: A Detailed Look

Successfully handling a “no soy sauce” request involves several key elements that ensure both customer safety and satisfaction.

1. Accurate Information Gathering and Verification:
This is the foundation. It’s not enough to hear “no soy sauce.” The waiter must understand *why* (allergy, preference, health reason) as this dictates the level of care needed. Using phrases like “혹시 알레르기 있으신가요?” (hok-shi al-le-reu-gi i-sseu-shin-ga-yo? – Do you happen to have allergies?) is vital. If it’s an allergy, the communication to the kitchen must emphasize avoiding cross-contamination (교차 오염 방지 – gyo-cha o-yeom bang-ji). Verification involves confirming the specific menu item and repeating the request back to the customer: “[메뉴 이름], 간장 없이 맞으신가요?” ([me-nyu i-reum], gan-jang eop-shi ma-jeu-shin-ga-yo? – [Menu Name], without soy sauce, is that correct?). This prevents misunderstandings before the order goes to the kitchen. In practice, this means actively listening, asking follow-up questions if needed, and confirming the final understanding.

2. Effective Kitchen Communication:
The waiter acts as the crucial link between the customer and the kitchen. The information must be relayed accurately and clearly. This involves specifying the table, the item, the exact restriction (“no soy sauce”), the reason if it’s an allergy, and any agreed-upon modifications (e.g., “use salt instead”). Using clear, concise language like “[테이블 번호]번 테이블, [메뉴 이름], 간장 알레르기 때문에 완전히 빼주세요.” ([te-i-beul beon-ho]-beon te-i-beul, [me-nyu i-reum], gan-jang al-le-reu-gi ttae-mun-e wan-jeon-hi bbae-ju-se-yo – Table [Number], [Menu Name], remove soy sauce completely due to allergy) is essential. It also involves confirming feasibility with the kitchen *before* promising the customer. The waiter needs to ask “간장 없이 조리 가능할까요?” (gan-jang eop-shi jo-ri ga-neung-hal-kka-yo? – Is it possible to cook without soy sauce?) and understand any limitations or necessary changes the kitchen staff mention. This ensures the kitchen understands the gravity and specifics of the request.

3. Transparent Customer Communication and Service:
After consulting the kitchen, the waiter must clearly communicate the outcome to the customer. If possible, confirm with “네, 간장 빼고 조리 가능합니다.” (ne, gan-jang bbae-go jo-ri ga-neung-ham-ni-da – Yes, it’s possible to cook without soy sauce). If not possible, explain politely (“죄송하지만, 이 메뉴는 간장 없이는 어렵습니다.” – joe-song-ha-ji-man, i me-nyu-neun gan-jang eop-shi-neun eo-ryeop-seum-ni-da – I’m sorry, but this menu is difficult without soy sauce) and suggest alternatives. When serving the dish, explicitly confirming the modification (“요청하신 대로 간장 없이 준비했습니다.” – yo-cheong-ha-shin dae-ro gan-jang eop-shi jun-bi-haet-seum-ni-da – Prepared without soy sauce as requested) provides reassurance. Following up on satisfaction (“맛은 괜찮으신가요?” – mat-eun gwaen-chan-eu-shin-ga-yo? – Is the taste okay?) completes the service loop. This transparency builds trust and shows attentive care, making the customer feel valued and safe.

Conclusion: Practice Makes Perfect!

Handling dietary requests like avoiding soy sauce is a common scenario in Korean restaurants, given its prevalence in the cuisine. As a waiter or staff member, mastering the key phrases and communication steps outlined here will significantly improve your ability to serve customers with specific needs professionally and effectively~!

Remember the core steps: listen carefully, clarify the reason (especially allergies!), communicate precisely with the kitchen, confirm feasibility, inform the customer clearly, offer alternatives if needed, and confirm the modification upon serving. Using polite language like “-드릴까요?” (-deu-ril-kka-yo?) and “-시겠어요?” (-shi-get-seo-yo?) shows respect and professionalism.

Don’t be afraid to practice these phrases! Role-playing scenarios with colleagues can be very helpful. Try simulating different situations: a simple preference, a severe allergy, a dish that can be easily modified, and one that cannot. The more comfortable you become with the language and the process, the more confident you’ll be when interacting with real customers. Your attentiveness will surely be appreciated and contribute to a positive dining experience for everyone involved!

For further study, consider learning vocabulary related to other common allergens (e.g., nuts – 견과류 – gyeon-gwa-ryu, dairy – 유제품 – yu-je-pum, gluten – 글루텐 – geul-lu-ten) and practicing how to discuss menu ingredients in more detail. 화이팅 (hwa-i-ting – You can do it)!