Those fed up with the usual choice between Korean-style Chinese and pizzas splattered with an unusual array of sauces and purees might breathe a sigh of relief at the news of a new takeout option in Seoul.
Ynot-Takeout.com is offering types of food that have not been available for delivery before, focusing on international food. Options vary from the conventional Mexican, Chinese and Indian options to West African and Moroccan cuisine.
The venture grew from the founders’ frustration with the lack of diversity of takeout options in Korea. Hankering for the variety of options available in the United States, the organizers explored the possibilities for creating similar diversity in Seoul.
“We set this up from a point of personal demand. We believe variety is the spice of life and we wanted this variety to be conveniently available for ourselves, our friends and people like us; who are on the go, busy or who just want more options to be available at a click of a button,” said company cofounder Phil Nieland.
The company has been trialing the service for some time to perfect the system and iron out problems. Trial customers have also suggested food options that they would like to see available, and Ynot says it is still listening.
“Customers can recommend restaurants they want on the list of options and the Ynot staff will work to make that happen,” the company said in a press release.
Orders can be made through an English Language system on ynot-takeout.com or by phone or Kakao Talk message.
Customers pay for the food and a set amount for delivery, which varies depending on where the food will be taken to. There is also an option to order food from more than one restaurant.
The service is currently operating in central Seoul in areas like Itaewon, Haebangchon, Gyeongnidan, Hannam-dong, Yongsan Army Base and Banpo.
However, they plan to expand to more areas and include more food options in future, saying they hope to reach beyond Seoul in five years.
“We know that most people want a service like this and therefore we don’t want to limit things to only central Seoul,” said Nieland “We hope to expand the food culture here in Korea to where we can offer more options right to the customer’s doorstep no matter where they live.”
The company said that by using Ynot Takeout, customers could try out new foods without having to go to a restaurant.
“We are creating a company culture that involves eating great food, learning about the world around us and having a good time,” said Nieland.
“We have had the chance to eat and drink from almost every restaurant in the central part of the city and that same opportunity is now available from the comforts of your home.”
By Paul Kerry (paulkerry@heraldcorp.com)