The Ultimate Guide to Ordering Food in Japan: Phrases for Any Situation
One of the greatest joys of traveling in Japan is the food! Sushi, ramen, tempura... it's enough to make your mouth water just thinking about it.
However, the first hurdle for many travelers is the language barrier. "How do I order?" is a common and valid concern.
But don't worry. With just a few magic phrases, dining in Japan becomes surprisingly easy and much more fun. This complete guide will walk you through every step, from entering the restaurant to paying the bill, covering all the phrases you'll ever need.
Let's read this guide and get ready to explore Japan's amazing culinary scene with confidence!
1. Essential Vocabulary
First, let's learn some basic words you'll frequently encounter in a restaurant. Just knowing these will help you understand menus and what the staff is saying.
| Japanese | Romaji | English |
|---|---|---|
| メニュー | Menyuu | Menu |
| 水 | Mizu | Water |
| お会計 / 会計 | O-kaikei / Kaikei | The check / Bill |
| 店内 | Tennai | For here / Dine-in |
| 持ち帰り | Mochikaeri | To go / Takeout |
2. From Entering to Being Seated
When you enter an establishment, you'll be greeted with a cheerful "いらっしゃいませ！ (Irasshaimase!)". It means "Welcome!" You don't need to reply, but a slight nod is a nice gesture.
Next, the staff will likely ask how many people are in your party.
Staff: 何名様ですか？ (Nan-mei sama desu ka?)
How many people?
You: 〜人です。 (~ nin desu.)
We are ~ people.
| Number of People | Japanese | Romaji |
|---|---|---|
| 1 Person | ひとり | hitori |
| 2 People | ふたり | futari |
| 3 People | さんにん | san-nin |
| 4 People | よにん | yo-nin |
If you aren't asked, or if you want to check for seats, you can ask:
You: 空いていますか？ (Aite imasu ka?)
Do you have any seats available?
3. Getting the Staff's Attention
When you've decided what to order, you'll need to call the staff. The easiest and most common way is to slightly raise your hand and say:
You: すみません！ (Sumimasen!)
Excuse me!
"Sumimasen" is an incredibly useful word that can be used not only to apologize but also to get someone's attention. You don't need to shout it.
💡 Cultural Tip:
Many restaurants have call buttons on the table. If you see one, simply press it, and a staff member will come to you.
4. The Main Event: Ordering
This is the main event! But ordering is surprisingly simple.
The Universal Phrase
This is the most powerful phrase. You can use it by saying the menu item's name or simply by pointing.
[Menu Item] + o + kudasai.
Example: ラーメンをください。 (Ramen o kudasai.)
Ordering by Pointing
Don't worry if you can't read the menu. Just point to the item you want and say:
You: これをください。 (Kore o kudasai.)
This one, please.
Asking for Recommendations
If you're not sure what to get, ask the staff for their recommendation.
You: おすすめは何ですか？ (Osusume wa nan desu ka?)
What do you recommend?
6. Paying the Bill
When you've finished your meal, it's time to pay.
You: お会計、お願いします。 (Okaikei, onegaishimasu.)
The check, please.
If you want to confirm the payment method, you can ask:
You: カードは使えますか？ (Kaado wa tsukaemasu ka?)
Can I use a credit card?
💡 Cultural Tip:
There is no tipping culture in Japan. You only need to pay the amount shown on the bill. Also, note whether you should pay at your table or at the register (usually near the entrance). Just observe what others are doing.
7. Specific Scenarios
Ramen Shops
Many ramen shops use a 券売機 (kenbaiki - ticket machine) at the entrance.
- Insert money first (often cash only).
- Press the button for the ramen you want.
- Give the ticket that comes out to the staff.
Izakaya (Japanese Pubs)
To ask for a refill of your drink, you can say:
おかわり、ください。 (Okawari, kudasai.)
A refill,
please.
Also, be aware of お通し (otōshi), a small appetizer that is served automatically. It acts as a table charge and is not free.
Conclusion
How was it? It's much simpler than you might have thought, right? The phrases introduced here will work in almost any restaurant in Japan. The most important thing is to speak with confidence and not worry about perfect pronunciation.
With just a little Japanese, your dining experience will become richer and much more enjoyable. Now, go find something delicious to eat!