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Izakaya Basics: A “How-To” Of Ordering And Etiquette In Japanese Bars
A "how-to" guide for English speakers when visiting an izakaya in Japan. Learn what an izakaya is, how to order, what are the etiquette rules and how to make the most of your experience.
First Things First - Getting Seated
Upon entry, simply hold up as many fingers as there are people in your party (wear a smile if you have one) and follow the staff member to your table. Here’s where the fun begins…
If you’re from a country where tipping is part of the drinking or dining deal, then you might want to consider the idea of the “otoushi” the Japanese substitute. It’s an appetizer you’ll be given before your first drink arrives and is included in the final cost, whether you want it or not. The charge is only small and is, more often than not, delicious. You’ll also be given an “oshibori” (wet hand towel) too.
How To Order At An Izakaya
The first thing you’re probably going to want to do is order a beer. Raise your hand and say (you might have to do it loudly) “onegaishimasu” (please) to get a staff member’s attention.
Asking for “nama biru” and putting a “kudasai” on the end of it to be polite, will get you a draught beer. Again, you might want to hold up fingers to signal how many beers you would like, or if you’re feeling game, “hitotsu” (1), “futatsu” (2), “mittsu” (3), “yottsu” (4), “itsutsu” (5).
Some izakaya will have menus with pictures and others won’t. If you’ve walked into the latter, you’re going to have to tackle this problem next, and here’s where you might like to consider the nature of an izakaya. While in general, Japan might be considered a polite and reserved country, it’s inside the walls of an izakaya where things liven up. This is your best chance to seek out that satisfying interaction with locals.
Now is the time to try out a few phrases. Don’t be afraid to ask someone near you for a recommendation (“osusume wa nan desuka?”). If someone near you is eating something that looks good, ask "sumimasen, sore wa nan desu ka?" (“Excuse me, what is that?”).
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