24 Essential Japanese Dining Etiquette Phrases You Should Know

Dining in Japan is more than just eating—it’s an experience full of respect, tradition, and warmth.

Getting familiar with key dining phrases can open doors to meaningful moments and smoother conversations. Plus, it makes you feel like a local rather than a tourist.

Whether you’re at a sushi bar or a casual ramen spot, knowing what to say shows your appreciation and respect for the culture.

By learning these phrases, you’ll not only enjoy your meals more but also connect with people around the table on a deeper level.

Mastering some simple Japanese dining etiquette phrases can boost your confidence and make dining out a breeze.

Let’s dive into 24 essential phrases that will help you shine at any Japanese dining table!

Why Knowing Dining Phrases Matters

Understanding polite dining phrases is a great way to show respect and blend in during meals.

These phrases aren’t just words—they’re little cultural bridges that make your dining experience richer and more enjoyable.

Plus, it’s fun to practice and impress your Japanese friends or hosts.

Sometimes, using a great beginner phrasebook can give you a perfect starting point for a cohesive understanding.

With the right phrases, you’ll navigate menus, order politely, and express gratitude like a pro.

And trust me, it’s easier than you think—just a few phrases can go a long way!

Part 1: Casual Suggestions

1. いただきます (Itadakimasu) – ee-tah-dah-kee-mahssu

This is the classic phrase said before you start eating.

It means “I humbly receive” and shows gratitude for the food and everyone involved in its preparation. Saying it is a simple yet powerful way to start your meal on the right foot.

It’s like saying “Let’s eat!” with respect and thanks.

Think of it as your mealtime “good vibes” phrase.

It pairs well with the phrase you say after eating, so keep both in mind!

Once you get comfortable with it, it’ll feel natural and polite every time you eat.

2. ごちそうさまでした (Gochisousama deshita) – goh-chee-soh-sah-mah deh-shee-tah

This phrase is said after finishing your meal and means “Thank you for the delicious meal.”

It’s easy to remember because it’s like saying “That was a feast” with appreciation. Try practicing it by imagining you just enjoyed your favorite dish.

Saying it sincerely leaves a great impression on your hosts or restaurant staff.

Don’t forget this one—it’s just as important as いただきます!

One common mistake is forgetting to say it, which can come off as rude.

For example, after a bowl of ramen, say, “ごちそうさまでした” to show you loved it.

Mastering this phrase is a quick win for polite dining.

3. お願いします (Onegaishimasu) – oh-neh-gai-shee-mahss

Use this phrase to politely ask for something, like ordering food or requesting the bill.

It means “Please” and is super handy in any dining situation. You can practice it by pairing it with menu items, like “Water, onegaishimasu.”

It’s simple and polite, making interactions smooth and friendly.

Remember, tone matters—use a respectful voice.

A mistake is to omit it and sound too blunt when ordering.

For example, say “ビールお願いします (Bīru onegaishimasu)” to politely order a beer.

This phrase is your polite key to making requests comfortably.

4. すみません (Sumimasen) – soo-mee-mah-sen

“Sumimasen” means “Excuse me” or “Sorry,” and it’s great for getting attention or apologizing.

It’s easy to use and remember because it’s applicable in many situations, like calling the server or apologizing for bumping into someone.

It’s polite and softens requests or apologies.

Avoid overusing it, though, as it can lose impact.

For example, if you want to ask for the menu, say “すみません、メニューをお願いします (Sumimasen, menyū o onegaishimasu).”

Using “sumimasen” shows good manners and respect.

5. これは何ですか？ (Kore wa nan desu ka?) – koh-reh wah nahn dess kah?

This phrase means “What is this?” and is perfect when you’re unsure about a dish or ingredient.

It’s straightforward and helps you learn about the menu while showing interest. Practice it by pointing at dishes or menu pictures.

It’s polite because you’re asking rather than guessing.

Remember to keep your tone curious, not demanding.

Common mistake: asking without tone, which can sound rude.

Example: “これは何ですか？” when pointing to an unfamiliar sushi roll.

It’s a great phrase to encourage interaction and learning.

6. おすすめは何ですか？ (Osusume wa nan desu ka?) – oh-soo-soo-meh wah nahn dess kah?

Use this phrase to ask “What do you recommend?” when you want the server’s advice.

It’s easy to say and makes ordering less stressful when you’re unsure. Try practicing by imagining you want a local favorite.

It’s polite and shows you value the server’s opinion.

Don’t forget the rising intonation at the end to indicate a question.

A mistake is to skip the question tone, making it sound like a statement.

For example: “おすすめは何ですか？” to find the best dish of the day.

This phrase helps you discover tasty options and connect with your server.

7. お水をください (Omizu o kudasai) – oh-mee-zoo oh koo-dah-sigh

This means “Please give me water” and is a simple, polite way to ask for a drink.

It’s easy to remember because it uses “mizu” (water) and “kudasai” (please). You can practice by pairing it with other drink requests.

It keeps your requests courteous and straightforward.

Remember to say it softly, not loudly.

A common mistake is just pointing without words, which might confuse servers.

Example: When thirsty, say “お水をください” instead of just gesturing.

This phrase ensures you stay polite while staying refreshed.

8. お箸をください (Ohashi o kudasai) – oh-hah-shee oh koo-dah-sigh

Use this phrase to say “Please give me chopsticks.”

It’s simple and polite, combining “ohashi” (chopsticks) with “kudasai” (please). Practice it by imagining you forgot your chopsticks.

It avoids awkward pointing or guessing.

Remember it’s polite to ask rather than take without permission.

A mistake is grabbing chopsticks without asking, which can be impolite.

Example: “お箸をください” when your chopsticks aren’t on the table.

Using this phrase keeps your dining manners on point.

Part 2: Polite & Formal Suggestions

9. 失礼します (Shitsurei shimasu) – shee-tsu-reh-ee shee-mahss

This formal phrase means “Excuse me” or “Pardon me,” often used when entering or leaving.

It’s polite and shows respect for others’ space. Practice using it when sitting down at a formal meal.

It’s a good way to show manners beyond just the meal itself.

Remember to bow slightly when saying it.

A common mistake is skipping this in formal settings, which can seem rude.

Example: Say “失礼します” when entering a traditional tatami room.

This phrase sets a respectful tone for formal dining situations.

10. どうぞお先に (Douzo osaki ni) – doh-zoh oh-sah-kee nee

This means “Please, go ahead first” and is used politely when offering others to start eating before you.

It’s easy to remember because “douzo” means “please” and “osaki ni” means “ahead.” Use it when dining with seniors or guests.

It demonstrates humility and respect.

Be careful not to say it too often or it might confuse people.

Example: “どうぞお先に” when inviting the host to eat before you.

Using this phrase shows excellent social awareness and etiquette.

11. お席はよろしいですか？ (Oseki wa yoroshii desu ka?) – oh-seh-kee wah yoh-roh-shee dess kah?

This polite question means “Is your seat okay?” and is useful in formal dining or restaurants.

It’s a great phrase to use if you’re hosting or want to check on your guests’ comfort.

It shows care and attentiveness.

Be sure to wait for a response before proceeding.

Example: “お席はよろしいですか？” when serving guests at a dinner party.

It helps maintain a respectful and comfortable dining environment.

12. 少々お待ちください (Shoushou omachi kudasai) – shoh-shoh oh-mah-chee koo-dah-sigh

This phrase means “Please wait a moment” and is perfect for polite situations when food or service is delayed.

It’s easy to say and shows professionalism and respect to customers or hosts.

Use it to manage expectations politely.

Don’t overuse or it can sound like an excuse.

Example: “少々お待ちください” when kitchen service takes longer than expected.

It keeps communication smooth and respectful during meals.

13. お手洗いはどこですか？ (Otearai wa doko desu ka?) – oh-teh-ah-rye wah doh-koh dess kah?

This phrase politely asks “Where is the restroom?”

It’s straightforward and essential for any dining outing. Practice it by pairing with polite tone and smiling.

It’s better than just pointing or using gestures.

Be sure to use the full phrase for politeness.

Example: “お手洗いはどこですか？” when you need to find the bathroom.

Knowing this phrase ensures you stay comfortable and courteous.

14. お会計をお願いします (Okaikei o onegaishimasu) – oh-kai-keh oh oh-neh-gai-shee-mahss

This means “The check, please” and is the polite way to ask for your bill.

It combines “okaikei” (bill) with “onegaishimasu” (please) for polite requests.

It’s a must-know phrase for smooth dining exits.

Don’t just shout or wave; using this phrase is respectful.

Example: “お会計をお願いします” when you’re ready to pay.

Using this phrase leaves a good impression when you’re done eating.

15. かんぱい！ (Kanpai!) – kahn-pie

“Kanpai” means “Cheers!” and is used when toasting before drinking.

It’s short, fun, and easy to remember. Practice by clinking imaginary glasses.

It’s a great way to bond and celebrate.

Be sure not to drink before everyone says it.

Example: “かんぱい！” to start a friendly gathering.

This phrase brings joy and connection to any meal.

16. おいしいです (Oishii desu) – oh-ee-shee dess

Use this phrase to say “It’s delicious!” and compliment the food.

It’s simple and polite, encouraging cooks and hosts. Practice by imagining tasting your favorite dish.

It’s a great way to express appreciation.

Don’t forget to say it with a smile!

Example: “この寿司はおいしいです！” (Kono sushi wa oishii desu!) – “This sushi is delicious!”

This phrase adds warmth and appreciation to your dining experience.

Part 3: Very Casual / Native-like Expressions

17. まあまあ (Maa maa) – mahh mahh

This means “So-so” or “Not bad” and is a casual way to describe food.

It’s informal and often used among friends. Practice it when rating food honestly but gently.

Great for when you don’t want to be overly enthusiastic.

Use it carefully to avoid sounding negative.

Example: “味はまあまあだね” (Aji wa maa maa da ne) – “The taste is so-so.”

It’s a handy phrase for casual conversations about food.

18. めっちゃおいしい (Meccha oishii) – meht-chah oh-ee-shee

This means “Super delicious!” and is a very casual, enthusiastic way to praise food.

It’s slangy and popular among young people. Practice saying it with energy.

Use it with friends or informal settings only.

Avoid it in formal situations to stay respectful.

Example: “このラーメンめっちゃおいしい！” – “This ramen is super delicious!”

This phrase adds fun and excitement to your food talk.

19. いいね！ (Ii ne!) – ee neh

“Ii ne” means “That’s good!” or “Nice!” and is a quick, casual compliment.

It’s easy to say and shows approval. Practice by using it when someone recommends food.

It’s friendly and informal.

Don’t use it in very formal dining contexts.

Example: “そのお寿司、いいね！” – “That sushi looks good!”

It’s a cheerful way to join in food conversations.

20. ごめん、ちょっと待って (Gomen, chotto matte) – go-men, choht-toh maht-teh

This means “Sorry, wait a moment” and is a casual way to ask for a short pause.

It’s easy to say and useful when you need a moment before ordering or paying.

Use it with friends or casual staff.

Avoid it with formal customers or elders.

Example: “ごめん、ちょっと待ってね。” – “Sorry, wait a moment.”

It keeps communication relaxed and friendly in casual dining.

21. もう一つください (Mou hitotsu kudasai) – moh hee-toh-tsu koo-dah-sigh

This means “One more, please” and is great for ordering an extra dish or drink.

It’s simple and very practical. Practice it by imagining you want seconds.

It’s polite enough for most casual restaurants.

Remember to use “kudasai” for politeness.

Example: “もう一つください” when you want another plate of tempura.

It’s a handy phrase for extending your meal politely.

22. いただきますって言うの忘れた！ (Itadakimasu tte iu no wasureta!) – ee-tah-dah-kee-mahss tteh ee-oo noh wah-soo-reh-tah

This fun phrase means “I forgot to say ‘itadakimasu’!”

It’s casual and perfect for joking with friends if you accidentally skip the phrase before eating.

It lightens the mood and shows you care about etiquette.

Use it only among close friends or informal groups.

Example: Saying it with a laugh before grabbing your chopsticks.

This phrase helps keep dining fun and relaxed.

23. お腹いっぱい！ (Onaka ippai!) – oh-nah-kah ee-ppah-ee

This means “I’m full!” and is a casual way to express satisfaction.

It’s easy to say and shows you enjoyed the meal.

Use it after finishing to let others know you’re satisfied.

It’s a friendly phrase for family or friends.

Example: “もうお腹いっぱい！” – “I’m already full!”

It signals a happy end to your dining experience.

24. また来ますね (Mata kimasu ne) – mah-tah kee-mahss neh

This means “I’ll come again” and is a casual way to say you enjoyed your visit and want to return.

It’s warm and friendly, perfect for casual dining or local spots.

Practice by saying it when leaving a place you liked.

It leaves a positive impression and invites future visits.

Example: “ありがとう、また来ますね！” – “Thank you, I’ll come again!”

This phrase rounds off your dining experience on a happy note.

Concluding Thought

Learning these 24 essential Japanese dining phrases is like having a pocketful of cultural keys.

They help you navigate meals with respect, ease, and confidence, making your dining moments more enjoyable and meaningful.

So go ahead, practice, use them, and watch how your Japanese dining experiences transform into memorable connections and warm smiles!