Ordering food in Japan isn’t just about getting fed - it’s a ritual. Whether you’re at a standing ramen joint or a high-end sushi counter, knowing a few key phrases can transform your experience from transactional to memorable. Here’s how to sound like you know what you’re doing.
1. Asking for Recommendations
Osusume wa nan desu ka?
/o̞sɯᵝsɯᵝme̞ ɰa naɴ desɯᵝ ka/“What do you recommend?”
The universal icebreaker. Staff will often steer you toward seasonal specialties or house favourites.
2. Ordering Directly
[Dish name] o kudasai
/[dish] o̞ kɯᵝdasai/“Please give me [dish]”
The basic template. Swap in any dish name (e.g., ramen, gyūdon) before o kudasai.
3. Asking for Adjustments
Karaku shite kudasai
/kaɾakɯᵝ ɕite̞ kɯᵝdasai/“Please make it spicy”
Useful at ramen shops or izakayas. For less salt, say shio o sukuname ni (reduce the salt).
4. Dietary Restrictions
[X] arerugī ga arimasu
/[X] aɾe̞ɾɯᵝɡiː ɡa aɾimasɯᵝ/“I have a [X] allergy”
Insert sakana (fish), tamago (egg), etc. Note: Vegan options are rare outside specialised restaurants.
5. Ordering More
Mō hitotsu onegaishimasu
/mo̞ː çito̞tsɯᵝ o̞ne̞ɡaiɕimasɯᵝ/“One more, please”
Essential for izakaya hopping. For another beer, say bīru mō ippai.
6. The Bill
Okaikei onegaishimasu
/o̞kaike̞ o̞ne̞ɡaiɕimasɯᵝ/“The bill, please”
Unlike in the West, staff won’t bring the bill until asked. Hand gestures (miming writing) also work.
Pro tip: In casual spots, you might pay at a vending machine or counter first. Watch what locals do.
7. Compliments to the Chef
Gochisōsama deshita
/ɡo̞tɕiso̞ːsama deɕita/“Thank you for the meal”
Say this when leaving, especially at small establishments. It acknowledges the effort behind your meal.
8. Emergency Exit
Omakase de
/o̞makase̞ de̞/“Leave it to you”
When you can’t decide or want the chef’s choice. Works best at sushi bars or tasting-menu places.
9. Water Request
O-mizu o kudasai
/o̞mizɯᵝ o̞ kɯᵝdasai/“Water, please”
Free tap water is standard, but you’ll often need to ask. Pronounce the o- prefix politely.
10. The Universal Fallback
Kore wa nan desu ka?
/ko̞ɾe̞ ɰa naɴ desɯᵝ ka/“What is this?”
Point + this phrase solves most mysteries. For bonus points, follow up with oishii! (delicious!).
Remember: Pronunciation matters more than perfection. A for effort goes a long way in Japan.
For more on Japanese etiquette, see our guide on gift-giving customs.
