Your first words at a restaurant
By the end you'll start an order confidently at a Japanese restaurant.
Part of the guide: How to Order Food in Japanese: A Script for Your First Restaurant Visit →
- 1
すみません sumimasen
Call the waiter's attention first. In Japan, you call them, they don't hover. すみません is your go-to.
Use when calling a server to order, getting attention of restaurant staff
すみません！ sumimasen!
Excuse me! (to call the waiter)
- 2
おいします chūmon onegaishimasu
Once the waiter comes, this is how you say 'I'd like to order.' Simple and clear.
Use when telling the waiter you're ready to order at a restaurant
おいします。 chūmon onegaishimasu.
We'd like to order, please.
- 3
これおいします kore onegaishimasu
Point at the menu and say this. Works everywhere, even when you can't read the menu.
Use when ordering by pointing at a menu item at a restaurant or cafe
これおいします。 kore onegaishimasu.
This one, please.
- 4
おおいします okaikei onegaishimasu
When you're ready to pay. In Japan, you ask for the check, it's not brought automatically.
Use when asking for the bill at a restaurant, ready to pay
おおいします。 okaikei onegaishimasu.
Check, please.
Saved phrases collect at practice → saved; quiz them and they enter your review queue.