Japan's food and beverage culture is diverse and has a deep history, offering new experiences for visitors to Japan. However, the terminology used in Japanese restaurants can be difficult for first-time visitors to understand.

In this article, we will introduce the terminology that visitors to Japan should be aware of in order to have a comfortable stay at a Japanese restaurant.

Welcome!

When entering a Japanese restaurant, it is common for the staff to greet you cheerfully with "Welcome!"

This is the greeting "Welcome" and is a phrase used to welcome customers.

Don't hesitate to enter the store.

Counter and table seats

The restaurant has counter seats and table seats.

The counter seats allow you to watch the food being prepared while you enjoy it, while the table seats allow you to relax with your family or group.

After saying "Welcome," you will be asked "How many in your party?" Once you tell them how many people will be eating with you, you will be shown to one of the tables.

Smoking and non-smoking seats

Some restaurants have separate smoking and non-smoking areas.
If you would like a non-smoking seat, say "No smoking please."

Set meals (Teishoku) and single order (A la carte)

Teishoku is a meal served as a set, and includes rice, miso soup, pickles, etc. Many restaurants also allow you to order individual items, so order according to the food you want to eat.

How to order

Sorry

When calling out to a store clerk, it's a good idea to say "Sumimasen" or "Suimasen" and raise your hand.

"Sumimasen" means "Excuse me" in English.

When a waiter approaches, politely convey your order or question.

When the staff comes, you can look at the menu and say "I'd like this" or raise your hand to order. The staff will usually confirm your order.

Appetizer

In some restaurants, a small appetizer called "otsushi" may be served before the main course is served.

"Otoshi" is a type of customer service in Japan, but since many restaurants use it in the same sense as a cover charge or seating charge, there are many cases where it cannot be refused.

Many people may be surprised to be suddenly served food they did not order, but Japanese otsumami can also be seen as an opportunity to experience the unique characteristics of the region and Japanese traditions.

Thank you for the meal

Before starting a meal, say "itadakimasu."

This is a phrase that expresses gratitude for the food you have received and is an important moment in Japanese food culture. Saying this phrase before starting a meal shows your gratitude for the food you are eating.

Can I have another serving?

This allows you to order additional food or drinks.

Of course, there is usually an additional charge, but some restaurants allow you to order rice (white rice) and miso soup for free, so be sure to take a good look at the menu or POP.

Substitute (Kaedama)

A term commonly seen in ramen restaurants, "kaedama" refers to ordering additional noodles.

If you have already finished the first bowl of noodles, you can enjoy additional noodles by saying "kaedama onegai" (additional noodles, please).

No service charges or tips

Service charges and tips are generally not charged in Japan.

A service charge is usually included in the price and it is not customary to give a separate tip.

If you leave it on the table, people will think you left something behind, so leave the shop without leaving a tip.

Thank you for the meal

When you finish your meal, you express your gratitude by saying "gochisousama deshita." This is a sign of courtesy to the staff and chefs who served you the food.

Takeaway

If you want to take home leftover food from a restaurant, say "take-out please." Some restaurants may even provide you with containers for take-out.

"Okawari kudasai" is a phrase used when requesting a refill during a meal.

Payment

When you finish your meal and are leaving the restaurant, say "Okaisai onegaishimasu" (please give me the bill). This indicates that you are ready to pay and is the signal for the waiter to begin taking the bill.

If you pay at the counter, it is a good idea to say "Thank you" when you finish paying and leave the store.

summary

Becoming familiar with these phrases and terminology will make your experience at Japanese restaurants much smoother.

Since you're traveling, why not try using these terms and enjoy Japan's food culture to the fullest?

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