Dining at a Japanese restaurant is an immersive experience, from the intricately prepared dishes to the attentive hospitality. But to make your experience even more enjoyable, learning a few key Japanese phrases can go a long way. Not only will you impress the staff, but it also makes your visit more seamless and engaging.
This guide will walk you through 12 useful phrases to use when dining at a Japanese restaurant. Whether you’re ordering sushi, asking for the bill, or simply expressing gratitude, these phrases will come in handy. Practice these expressions, and you’ll dine with confidence and charm.
Why Learn Japanese Phrases for Dining?
Japanese restaurants are known for their exceptional service and cultural etiquette. A simple “thank you” or “excuse me” in Japanese demonstrates respect and appreciation for their culture. Beyond politeness, it fosters a sense of connection and can create a warmer atmosphere during your meal.
Now, here’s everything you need to know for your next dining experience.
1. Irasshaimase (いらっしゃいませ)
This is the first word you’ll likely hear upon entering a Japanese restaurant. The staff usually greets you with a loud and cheerful “Irasshaimase!” which means “Welcome!” or “Come in!”
What to Do: Simply smile and nod in response. You don’t need to say anything back unless you’re feeling confident enough to greet them with a casual “Konnichiwa” (Hello).
2. Sumimasen (すみません)
“Sumimasen” is one of the most versatile phrases in Japanese. At a restaurant, you can use it to politely get a server’s attention, like saying “Excuse me.”
Example:
- Sumimasen, eigo no menyū wa arimasu ka?
(Excuse me, do you have an English menu?)
This phrase can also be used as an apology if you accidentally bump into someone or need to squeeze through a tight space.
3. Eigo no menyū wa arimasu ka? (英語のメニューはありますか？)
Not all Japanese restaurants offer English menus, so this phrase can be a lifesaver. It means, “Do you have an English menu?”
If they don’t, politely ask for help or use gestures to point out what you’d like from the pictures often provided in menus.
4. Osusume wa nan desu ka? (おすすめは何ですか？)
Looking for recommendations? Use this phrase to ask, “What do you recommend?” The staff might guide you toward their best-selling or seasonal dishes, often giving you a chance to try something unique.
Example:
- Osusume wa nan desu ka?
(What do you recommend?)
- Response might be Kore wa ninki desu (This is popular.)
5. Kore o kudasai (これをください)
When you’re ready to order, simply point to the item on the menu and say, “Kore o kudasai,” which means “I’ll have this, please.” It’s a polite way to specify what you’d like without trying to pronounce a dish you might be unfamiliar with.
Example:
- Kore o kudasai. (Pointing to sashimi on the menu.)
Translation: “Please give me this.”
6. O-mizu o kudasai (お水をください)
If you’d like water, politely ask for it with this phrase, which means, “Please give me water.”
Pro tip: Tap water is usually free at Japanese restaurants and staff will refill it when the glass is empty.
7. Itadakimasu (いただきます)
“Itadakimasu” is said before starting your meal and translates roughly to “I humbly receive.” It’s a way to show gratitude for the food you’re about to eat, as well as respect for the chef and ingredients.
What to Do: Say “Itadakimasu” before you begin eating, even if you’re on your own.
8. Gochisōsama deshita (ごちそうさまでした)
After finishing your meal, it’s customary to say “Gochisōsama deshita,” which means “Thank you for the meal.” This simple phrase shows your appreciation for the food and service.
What to Do: Say it when you’ve finished eating, especially when leaving the restaurant.
9. Okanjō o onegaishimasu (お勘定をお願いします)
When you’re ready to pay, use this phrase to ask for the bill. It translates to “The check, please.”
Example:
- Sumimasen, okanjō o onegaishimasu.
(Excuse me, the check, please.)
At some Japanese restaurants, you might need to take the bill to the cashier instead of paying at the table.
10. Oishii! (おいしい！)
Want to compliment the chef on the delicious food? Say “Oishii!” which means “Delicious!” You can pair it with a big smile for extra enthusiasm.
Example:
- Sushi wa totemo oishii desu!
(The sushi is very delicious!)
11. Arigatou gozaimasu (ありがとうございます)
This is a polite way to say “Thank you.” Use it when the staff brings your food, refills your water, or brings the bill. Politeness is highly valued in Japan, so this is a phrase you should use often.
Example:
- Staff refills your drink. Arigatou gozaimasu!
(Thank you!)
12. Mata kimasu (また来ます)
If you enjoyed your meal and plan to return, you can say “Mata kimasu,” meaning “I will come again.” It’s a kind gesture that shows your appreciation and positive intentions.
Example:
- Staff waves as you leave. Mata kimasu!
(I’ll come again!)
Final Tips for Dining at a Japanese Restaurant
Using these 12 phrases can enrich your dining experience at En Sushi while showing respect for Japanese culture. Practice them in advance or keep this guide handy when you visit a Japanese restaurant.
And remember, confidence and a warm smile go a long way, even if your pronunciation isn’t perfect. Japanese hospitality is famously kind, and the effort you put into using their language will be genuinely appreciated.