"Osusume wa Nan Desu ka" Meaning: Asking for Recommendations in Japanese
When you're in a restaurant or shop in Japan, faced with a menu of delicious-looking but unfamiliar options, what do you do? You could point randomly, or you could use one of the most powerful and rewarding phrases in the Japanese language.
This phrase not only helps you discover the best items that locals love, but it also opens the door to friendly conversation with the staff. It shows you trust their judgment and are open to a new experience. For them, it's a welcome chance to share their pride in their products.
This guide will teach you how to use this "magic question" and understand the kinds of enthusiastic answers you're likely to receive.
1. The Magic Question
This single phrase can be used in almost any situation where you have to make a choice, from restaurants and souvenir shops to bars.
The Go-To Phrase for Recommendations:
すみません、おすすめは何ですか？
(Sumimasen, osusume wa nan desu ka?)
"Excuse me, what is your recommendation?"
Let's break it down:
- すみません (Sumimasen): The polite way to get the staff's attention.
- おすすめ (Osusume): This means "recommendation."
- は何ですか？ (wa nan desu ka?): This means "what is...?"
2. A Sample Restaurant Conversation
Here’s how a typical interaction might go at an izakaya (Japanese pub).
You: すみません、おすすめは何ですか？
(Sumimasen, osusume wa nan desu ka?)
Staff: 今日はお刺身が新鮮ですよ。特にアジが人気です。
(Kyō wa o-sashimi ga shinsen desu yo. Toku ni aji ga ninki desu.)
"Today, the sashimi is fresh. The horse mackerel is especially popular."
You: じゃあ、そのアジのお刺身をお願いします。
(Jaa, sono aji no o-sashimi o onegaishimasu.)
"Okay then, I'll have that horse mackerel sashimi, please."
3. Understanding the Answer
The staff will often point to an item on the menu and tell you what it is, often adding why it's recommended. Listen for these positive keywords:
| Japanese | Romaji | English Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| 人気です | ninki desu | It's popular. |
| 新鮮です | shinsen desu | It's fresh. |
| 美味しいですよ | oishii desu yo | It's delicious! |
| 季節限定です | kisetsu gentei desu | It's a seasonal special. |
💡 Confidence is Key!
Even if you don't fully understand the explanation, you can usually trust the recommendation. A confident 「じゃあ、それでお願いします。」 (Jaa, sore de onegaishimasu.) - "Okay then, I'll have that," is a great response.
Conclusion
Asking for a recommendation is one of the best ways to step outside your comfort zone and try something new and amazing. It's a sign of trust and curiosity that is almost always welcomed by staff.
So next time you're feeling adventurous, don't hesitate to ask, "Osusume wa nan desu ka?" You might just discover your new favorite Japanese dish!