Dining in a Japanese restaurant isn’t just about enjoying high-quality food; it’s also an opportunity to immerse yourself in Japan’s rich culture and traditions. Japanese dining emphasizes respect, mindfulness, and harmony, not only in the preparation and presentation of food but also in the behavior of its diners. From table manners to ordering customs, there are unspoken rules that can enhance your experience and leave a positive impression.
If you’re new to Japanese dining or want to sharpen your etiquette, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know to confidently dine like a local.
A Brief Overview of Japanese Dining Culture
Before you set foot in a Japanese restaurant, understanding the cultural context can help you appreciate the dining experience on a deeper level. Traditional Japanese meals focus on balance and variety, often incorporating the principles of washoku, or the harmonious combination of five colors (red, yellow, green, white, and black), five tastes (sweet, sour, salty, bitter, and umami), and five cooking methods.
Equally important is the philosophy of omotenashi, which translates to selfless hospitality. Whether you’re in a casual ramen shop or a high-end sushi bar, Japanese staff place great emphasis on making guests feel welcomed and respected.
Following proper etiquette not only shows appreciation for their efforts but also allows you to fully engage with the cultural nuances that make Japanese dining so unique.
Before Entering the Restaurant
1. Make a Reservation or Queue Respectfully
High-quality Japanese restaurants, especially sushi bars and kaiseki establishments, often require reservations, sometimes weeks in advance. If reservations aren’t required, be prepared to queue during peak hours, especially in bustling cities like Tokyo or Kyoto. When queuing, respect others by standing quietly and not blocking entrances.
2. Remove Your Shoes (When Required)
Many traditional restaurants in Japan, such as kaiseki or ryokan-style establishments, require you to remove your shoes before entering. Pay attention to genkan (entryway) areas that typically provide a space to store shoes. Always wear clean socks, as you may be walking on tatami mats inside.
Table Manners to Know
1. Say “Itadakimasu” and “Gochisousama Deshita”
Before starting your meal, say “Itadakimasu” (“I humbly receive”) to express gratitude for the food. At the end of your meal, say “Gochisousama deshita” (“Thank you for the meal”) to thank the chef and staff. These phrases are essential expressions of appreciation in Japanese dining culture.
2. Don’t Stick Chopsticks Upright in Rice
This is one of the biggest taboos in Japanese dining. Placing chopsticks upright in a bowl of rice resembles a ritual performed at funerals and is considered disrespectful. Instead, rest your chopsticks on the provided holder (hashioki) or lay them parallel across a dish.
3. Avoid Passing Food Chopstick-to-Chopstick
Another faux pas to avoid is transferring food from one person’s chopsticks directly to another’s. Like the upright chopsticks taboo, this act is associated with funerary practices. If you want to share food, use the opposite end of your chopsticks to take food from the communal dish and place it onto your companion’s plate.
4. Don’t Gesture or Point with Chopsticks
Chopsticks should be used solely for eating. Using them to gesture, point, or playfully tap on the table is seen as rude behavior.
Ordering the Right Way
1. Wait for the Host to Seat You
At most Japanese restaurants, especially casual ones, a host will guide you to your table. Don’t seat yourself unless explicitly told to do so.
2. Use “Omakase” at Sushi Bars
If you’re dining at a sushi bar, consider saying “omakase”, which means “I’ll leave it up to you.” This signifies that you trust the chef to select the finest sushi for you, giving you an authentic dining experience while showing respect for the chef’s expertise.
3. Don’t Overdo It with Soy Sauce
When eating sushi, pour only a small amount of soy sauce into the dish and dip the fish side (not the rice) lightly. Overusing soy sauce or soaking your sushi is considered disrespectful to the chef’s careful seasoning.
Drinking Etiquette
1. Pour Drinks for Others Before Your Own
If you’re having alcohol, the custom is to pour drinks for others at the table before refilling your own. Watch how your companions’ glasses are filled, as they’ll likely reciprocate.
2. Offer a Toast with “Kanpai”
Before taking the first sip of your drink, wait for everyone to raise their glass for a toast. Say “Kanpai!” (“Cheers!”) in unison before taking your first drink.
Different Types of Food-Specific Etiquette
1. Eating Ramen
Unlike Western norms, slurping ramen is not only acceptable but encouraged! It shows enjoyment of the dish and helps enhance the flavor by aerating the noodles and broth.
2. Eating Sushi
When eating sushi with your hands (which is acceptable in many sushi-focused restaurants), pick it up gently and eat it in one bite. If using chopsticks, handle the sushi delicately to avoid breaking it apart.
3. Eating Tempura
Dip your tempura lightly into the sauce rather than soaking it. Many tempura dishes come with salt varieties, so try a pinch of the specialty salts for a different flavor profile.
Paying the Bill
1. Don’t Tip
Tipping is not a part of Japanese culture, and leaving money on the table may even cause confusion. Instead, express your gratitude verbally or through a short bow.
2. Pay at the Register Unless Otherwise Indicated
Unlike Western restaurants where checks are typically paid at the table, many Japanese establishments require you to pay at the front register. The staff will bring the bill to your table when you’re ready, and you can take it to the counter.
Respect the Space and People Around You
- Keep your voice low to maintain a peaceful atmosphere.
- Avoid strong perfumes or colognes, as they can interfere with the food’s aroma.
- Never waste food. Eating everything provided, especially in kaiseki or sushi restaurants, honors the chef’s effort and the ingredients.
Takeaway – Savor the Experience
Dining at a Japanese restaurant is about more than just enjoying the flavors; it’s a chance to connect with the culture and traditions of Japan. By following these etiquette guidelines, you’ll ensure a respectful dining experience for yourself and those around you.
Want to learn more about Japanese culture or dining? Stay tuned for our top picks of Japanese restaurants in your city such as En Sushi! Whether it’s your first time or your fiftieth, every visit is an opportunity to savor both the cuisine and the culture.
