How to Book ‘Black & White Chef’ Restaurants: CatchTable English Guide (No Korean Number Needed)

Hello. This is JH from My Korean Guide.

If you are reading this post, you probably fell in love with the Netflix show Black & White Chef (흑백요리사) and tried to book one of the chefs’ restaurants.

And then, you likely faced a frustrating wall: “Verification Required (Korean Phone Number Needed).”

Many tourists give up here. But don’t worry. As a local living in Seoul, I will tell you the exact method to book these trending restaurants without a Korean phone number. You only need your email and a credit card.

1. CatchTable Global Version

In Korea, two major apps dominate restaurant bookings: Naver Map and CatchTable. While Naver Map often requires a verified Korean ID (which is impossible for tourists), CatchTable offers a special version for foreigners.

Do not download the Korean version of the app. You must use the “CatchTable Global” version.

• Key Features:
  • No Korean Number: Sign up with Google or Apple ID.
  • English Interface: Fully translated menus and instructions.
  • Foreign Cards Accepted: You can pay the reservation deposit with Visa/Mastercard.

[Download Links]

• iOS (App Store):CatchTable Global for iOS
• Android (Google Play):CatchTable Global for Android

2. Step-by-Step Booking Guide

Follow these steps to secure your seat at a Black & White Chef restaurant.

Step 1: Sign Up & Settings

After downloading the app, sign in using your Google or Apple ID. This bypasses the Korean phone verification process.

Step 2: Search for the Chef or Restaurant

You can search by the restaurant’s English name. If you don’t know the exact name, search for “Black and White Chef.” CatchTable often curates these lists.

• Search Example: “Choi Hyun-seok” (Chef name) or “Choi Dot” (Restaurant name).

![Image: Screenshot of CatchTable search bar with ‘Black and White Chef’ query showing results]

Step 3: Check Availability & Deposit

Select your date and time. Popular places like Via Toledo Pasta Bar or Neo might be fully booked for months.

• Important: You must pay a “Deposit (Reservation Fee)” to confirm. This is to prevent “No-Shows.” The deposit is usually refunded to your card after you dine at the restaurant.

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3. What If It’s Fully Booked? (Tips for Success)

Most Black & White Chef restaurants are currently sold out. Here is how you can still get a chance.

• Use the “Notify Me” Feature: Click the “Notify Me” button for your desired date. When someone cancels (which happens often!), you will get an email or push notification. You have to be fast!
• Check “Course” vs. “Hall”: Sometimes the “Bar” seats are full, but “Hall” tables are available. Check all seating options.

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Summary & Comment

“Is it worth the effort?” Absolutely.

Booking famous restaurants in Korea is a fierce competition, coined as “Tik-Ket-Ting” (Ticketing War). However, tasting the dishes created by the chefs you saw on Netflix will be the highlight of your trip.

Don’t panic because you don’t have a Korean number. Just download CatchTable Global, set up the notification, and get ready to enjoy the best dining experience in Seoul.

• This article was written for informational purposes only, without any monetary compensation.