How to Book Black & White Chef Restaurants in Korea (CatchTable Global Guide)

Hello. This is JH from My Korean Guide.

After the global hit of the Netflix series Culinary Class Wars (Black and White Chef), many travelers are asking the same question: “How can I actually eat at these chefs’ restaurants?”

The answer is simple, but the process requires preparation. You cannot just walk in, and you certainly cannot use Google Maps to reserve a table.

You need CatchTable Global. This guide explains exactly how to use this essential app to book the hottest restaurants in Korea without a Korean phone number.

Why CatchTable Global Is Essential

If you are a foodie traveling to Korea, this app is not optional—it is mandatory.

• Exclusive Access: Most top-tier restaurants, including those featured on Black and White Chef, only open reservations through CatchTable.
• No Korean Number Needed: The Global version allows you to sign up with just an email.
• English Interface: The app is fully translated for international tourists.
• International Cards Accepted: You can pay the deposit using Visa, Mastercard, AMEX, or JCB.

Official Download Links:

• [iOS App Store]
• [Google Play Store]

Step 1: How to Sign Up (Easy & Fast)

The biggest hurdle for foreigners in Korea is usually identity verification (needing a local SIM). CatchTable Global solves this.

1. Download the ‘CatchTable Global’ app (not the Korean version).
2. Open the app and ensure the language is set to English.
3. Select ‘Sign up with Google’ or ‘Sign up with Apple’.
4. That’s it! You are ready to book.

Step 2: Finding the Restaurant

Searching in English works well, but for the most accurate results, knowing the chef’s name or the exact English name of the restaurant helps.

• Search Tip: If you are looking for specific chefs from the Netflix show, check the curated lists often featured on the app’s home screen.
• Check Availability: Click the calendar icon. Dates in Black are available, while dates in Gray are fully booked.

Step 3: Making a Reservation & The Deposit System

This is the most important part. In Korea, “No-Show” is taken very seriously.

1. Select Date & Time: Choose your preferred slot.
2. Menu Pre-order: Some high-end dining spots require you to choose your course menu in advance.
3. Pay the Deposit (Booking Fee):
   • You will be asked to pay a deposit (usually 30,000 KRW ~ 100,000 KRW per person).
   • Don’t worry: This is not an extra fee. It is a hold to prevent no-shows.
   • The deposit is 100% refunded (or deducted from the final bill) after you arrive at the restaurant.

Important: Cancellation Policy

Before you click “Confirm,” read the cancellation policy carefully.

• Cancellation Fee: If you cancel 1-2 days before, you may lose part of your deposit.
• Late Arrival: If you are more than 15-20 minutes late, your reservation might be cancelled automatically, and the deposit will not be refunded.

Summary & Comment

To experience the best K-Food, CatchTable Global is your best friend. The competition for famous restaurants is fierce, so I recommend booking at least 2 weeks in advance.

Key Takeaways:

• Download Before Arrival: Set up your account before you fly to Korea.
• Use International Cards: Visa and Mastercard work perfectly for deposits.
• Be Punctual: Korean dining culture is strict about time.

Enjoy your gourmet trip to Korea!