What Do Japanese People Say When Leaving a Restaurant? | Cultural Etiquette Explained

Learn the essential Japanese phrase for showing appreciation after a meal at a restaurant.

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When leaving a restaurant in Japan, people often say 'Gochisousama deshita' which translates to 'Thank you for the meal.' This phrase shows appreciation for the food and the service received. It's a polite gesture and helps to acknowledge the effort put in by the staff.

FAQs & Answers

  1. What does 'Gochisousama deshita' mean? 'Gochisousama deshita' means 'Thank you for the meal' in Japanese, used to express gratitude after eating.
  2. Is it common to say something when leaving a restaurant in Japan? Yes, it is common courtesy in Japan to say 'Gochisousama deshita' when leaving a restaurant as a sign of appreciation.
  3. What are some other phrases used in Japanese dining etiquette? Other common phrases include 'itadakimasu' before a meal, which expresses gratitude for the food, and 'osusume' when asking for recommendations.
  4. How can I show appreciation for service in a Japanese restaurant? Besides saying 'Gochisousama deshita,' you can also show appreciation by leaving a small tip if the service was excellent, although tipping is not customary in Japan.