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Restaurant Guide

How to order food in Japan.

Make restaurants easier with simple steps for menus, ticket machines, payment and polite phrases.

Quick answer

Tourists can usually order food in Japan by using photo menus, pointing, ticket machines, tablets or simple phrases. The most important habit is checking where and when to pay.

Restaurant steps tourists should know

Before orderingCheck the ordering style firstSome places use staff, some use tablets, and ramen shops often use ticket machines near the entrance.
MenuPhotos are your friendPointing to a menu photo is normal and useful when you do not know the Japanese name.
WaterWater is often self-serviceIn casual restaurants, water or tea may be available at a counter or drink station.
PaymentLook for the cashierMany restaurants place the cashier near the entrance. Take the bill there after eating.
MannersNo tipping is neededJapanese restaurants do not expect tips. A simple thank you works better.

Useful simple phrases

Kore o onegaishimasuPlease give me this. Useful when pointing to a menu item.
Okaikei onegaishimasuCheck, please. Use this when you need to ask for the bill.
Arigato gozaimasuThank you very much. Simple and always helpful.

Use these next if you want to choose what to eat and avoid common restaurant mistakes.

Related guideWhat to Eat in JapanChoose classic foods and easy meals. Related guideJapan Food Etiquette GuideLearn chopsticks, paying and restaurant manners. Related guideBasic Japanese PhrasesPrepare simple words for shops, restaurants and stations.

FAQ

How do tourists order food in Japan?Many restaurants use menus with photos, QR codes, tablets or ticket machines. Pointing, using simple phrases and checking payment location are usually enough.
Do I pay at the table in Japan?In many casual restaurants, you take the bill to the cashier near the entrance. Some cafes, ramen shops and fast food places require payment before eating.
Is tipping required in Japanese restaurants?Tipping is not required in normal Japanese restaurants. A polite thank you is enough.

Japanese version