Your First Meal in Tokyo: 7 Things Nobody Tells You

Your first meal in Tokyo comes with rules nobody writes down. Here are the seven things that surprise almost every visitor at a regular Tokyo restaurant, from THE NANJO ROOM Podcast #17 (JAPAN UNWRITTEN #001).

1. "Irasshaimase!" — do you answer?

The whole staff shouts "Irasshaimase!" (welcome) when you walk in. You don't need to answer. A small nod is perfect. Then hold up your fingers to show how many people are in your group.

2. The oshibori is for your hands only

You'll get a hot or cold towel (oshibori). Use it to wipe your hands, then fold it and leave it on the table. Wiping your face or neck with it is seen as a bit rough in nicer places.

3. Otoshi: the "free" snack that isn't free

At an izakaya, a small dish may arrive before you order anything. This is the otoshi, a table charge in food form. It usually adds a few hundred yen per person to the bill. It's normal, not a scam.

4. Call the waiter: "Sumimasen!"

Staff won't keep checking on you. When you're ready, raise your hand and say "Sumimasen!" (excuse me). Many places also have a call button on the table.

5. Use the little cash tray

When you pay, put your cash or card in the small tray by the register instead of handing it over. Your change comes back the same way.

6. Pay at the register — or the ticket machine

In most restaurants you take the bill to the register by the door. At many ramen and noodle shops you buy a meal ticket from a machine before you sit down, then hand it to the staff.

7. Don't tip. Say "Gochisousama deshita."

Tipping isn't part of the culture and can cause confusion. The best tip is a smile and "Gochisousama deshita" (thank you for the meal) on your way out.

Words that work

• Sumimasen — Excuse me
• Kore kudasai — This one, please (point at the menu)
• Okaikei onegaishimasu — The bill, please
• Gochisousama deshita — Thank you for the meal

🎧 Listen to the full episode on Spotify. Got a question about eating in Tokyo? Ask John.