Why Japan?Japanese Phrases for an Izakaya
From the door to the bill: the few words you need in a Japanese pub, and what they really mean.
Tap Show to display a phrase in large Japanese for the staff.
At the door
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You’ll hear
いらっしゃいませ！
Irasshaimase!
Welcome!
Shouted by the staff as you walk in. You don't need to reply — a nod or a smile is enough.
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You’ll hear
何名様ですか？
Nanmei-sama desu ka?
How many people?
Usually the first question.
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二人です
Futari desu
Two people.
Holding up two fingers works too. One person is hitori, three is sannin, four is yonin.
Ordering
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すみません！
Sumimasen!
Excuse me!
To call a server. Raise a hand as you say it. Many izakaya also have a call button on the table.
Why?
Sumimasen does three jobs: “excuse me”, “sorry” and a light “thank you”. Calling out to staff is normal in a busy izakaya, not rude.
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英語のメニューはありますか？
Eigo no menyū wa arimasu ka?
Do you have an English menu?
Many places have one, or a menu with photos. Some take orders on a tablet or by QR code.
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とりあえず、生ビールを一つお願いします
Toriaezu, nama bīru o hitotsu onegai shimasu
One draft beer to start, please.
The classic first order while everyone looks at the menu. Change hitotsu (one) to futatsu (two) or mittsu (three).
Why?
Toriaezu means “for now”. It is a familiar set phrase for the first round of drinks — but order whatever you actually want, soft drinks included.
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おすすめは何ですか？
Osusume wa nan desu ka?
What do you recommend?
Good for the day’s fish or the house specialty.
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これをください
Kore o kudasai
This one, please.
Point at the menu as you say it. Works in any shop, too.
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私は〇〇のアレルギーです。〇〇は入っていますか？
Watashi wa ___ no arerugī desu. ___ wa haitte imasu ka?
I am allergic to ___. Does this contain ___?
Choose your allergy, then tap Show and let the staff read it before you order.
Why?
In Japan, allergen labels are required on packaged food, but not on restaurant menus, and kitchens may share fryers and utensils. If your allergy is severe, also use the Consumer Affairs Agency’s Food Allergy Communication Sheet and ask about cross-contact. Do not rely on this card alone. Food Allergy Communication Sheet (Consumer Affairs Agency, Japan)
Drinks and food
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乾杯！
Kanpai!
Cheers!
Wait until everyone has a drink, then raise your glasses together before the first sip.
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いただきます
Itadakimasu
(Said before eating)
Said just before you start eating, often with hands together. There is no exact English word.
Why?
It literally means “I humbly receive” — a thank-you for the food and everyone who brought it to the table.
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おいしい！
Oishii!
Delicious!
A natural compliment, especially if the staff ask how the food is.
Paying and leaving
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お会計お願いします
Okaikei onegai shimasu
The bill, please.
Say it to a server. At many places you then pay at the register by the door, not at the table.
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カードは使えますか？
Kādo wa tsukaemasu ka?
Can I pay by card?
Ask before ordering if you are not sure. Some small izakaya are still cash only.
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ごちそうさまでした
Gochisōsama deshita
Thank you for the meal.
Said on your way out to thank the staff for the meal.
Why?
Tipping is not customary in Japan, and money left on the table can be handed back as a mistake. These words are how customers say the food and service were good. Watch: Why Is There No Tipping in Japan?
