How to Order at a Japanese Restaurant

Entering the Restaurant

When you enter a Japanese restaurant, stop at the entrance and wait. Staff will greet you with “いらっしゃいませ” (irasshaimase — welcome). Don’t respond; it’s not a question.

They’ll ask “何名様ですか？” (nan-mei sama desu ka — how many people?). Hold up fingers to show your party size or say the number:

• 1 person: 一人 (hitori)
• 2 people: 二人 (futari)
• 3 people: 三人 (san-nin)
• 4 people: 四人 (yo-nin)

If there’s a wait, they may give you a number ticket. Some restaurants use a ticket machine at the entrance — buy your meal ticket before entering, then hand it to staff when seated.

Seating Types

Staff will lead you to one of three seating areas:

Counter (カウンター): Bar-style seating facing the kitchen. Common at ramen shops, sushi bars, and izakayas. Solo diners usually get counter seats.

Table (テーブル): Standard Western-style tables and chairs. Most common for groups.

Tatami (座敷): Floor seating on cushions. Remove shoes before stepping up. Sit cross-legged or in seiza (kneeling). Your knees will hurt after 20 minutes — it’s normal.

Ordering Methods

Menu Pointing

The easiest method: point at what you want and say “これください” (kore kudasai — this please). Most restaurants have photos. If no photos, look at what other customers are eating and point.

Tablet Ordering

Many chain restaurants use tablets. Language options usually include English. Browse categories, tap items, confirm your order. Your food arrives without talking to anyone.

Verbal Ordering

Press the call button (呼び出しボタン) on your table. Staff will come. Say “注文お願いします” (chuumon onegaishimasu — I’d like to order).

If you want recommendations, ask “おすすめは何ですか？” (osusume wa nan desu ka — what do you recommend?).

Set Meals (定食)

Look for 定食 (teishoku) on the menu. These are set meals with rice, miso soup, pickles, and a main dish. Usually ¥800-¥1,500. Best value for lunch.

During Your Meal

Water and oshibori (wet towel) are free and automatic. Use the oshibori to wipe your hands before eating, then fold it and set it aside.

Refills: Water is self-serve at some places (pitcher on table) or unlimited if you ask. Tea is usually free at Japanese restaurants.

Call button: Don’t wave or shout. Press the button. Staff will come. If no button, make eye contact and raise your hand slightly.

Last order (ラストオーダー): Restaurants announce last order 30 minutes before closing. If you hear “ラストオーダー,” order everything you want now.

Paying the Bill

When ready to leave, say “お会計お願いします” (okaikei onegaishimasu — check please) or make a checkmark gesture in the air with your fingers.

Two payment systems:

1. Pay at register (most common): Take your receipt to the register near the exit. Staff will total it there. Look for レジ sign.

2. Pay at table (rare): Staff brings a tray, you place money/card on tray, they process payment and return change on the tray.

Payment methods:

• Cash is always accepted
• Credit cards accepted at chains and larger restaurants
• IC cards (Suica, PASMO) accepted at many places
• Mobile payment (PayPay, LINE Pay) increasingly common

No tipping: Tipping is not done in Japan. The price on the menu is the price you pay. Leaving money on the table will confuse staff.

Troubleshooting

Problem	Cause	Solution
Staff won’t seat me	You seated yourself	Wait at entrance, staff will come
No one is taking my order	No call button pressed	Look for 呼び出しボタン on table or wall
Bill never comes	Waiting at table	Take receipt to register near exit
They won’t accept my card	Cash-only restaurant	Look for ATM nearby (convenience stores have them)
Food is taking forever	You didn’t actually order	Check if you pressed “confirm” on tablet or if staff heard you

FAQ

Q: Can I modify menu items (no onions, extra spicy, etc.)?
A: Possible at sit-down restaurants, difficult at fast-casual places. Say “〜抜きでお願いします” (nuki de onegaishimasu — without ~). Don’t expect major changes.

Q: Is it rude to leave food on my plate?
A: Not rude, but wasteful. Order smaller portions if unsure. Finishing everything shows appreciation.

Q: Can I share dishes?
A: Yes, common at izakayas. Each person should order at least one drink. Sharing one bowl of ramen between two people is weird.

Q: What if I have allergies?
A: Learn the Japanese word for your allergen. Show it written on your phone. Staff will check with the kitchen. Severe allergies: bring an allergy card in Japanese.

Q: Do I need a reservation?
A: Not usually, except for high-end restaurants, popular spots on weekends, or groups of 6+. Walk-ins are normal.

Last verified: February 2026