Formal — to staff
Izakaya · Culture
You
この「お通し」とは何ですか？
この「おとおし」とはなんですか？
What is this "Otoshi"?
Romaji: Kono "otooshi" to wa nan desu ka? / Reply Romaji: Otoshi to wa, izakaya de saisho ni odashi suru kobachi no ryori no koto de gozaimasu. Sekiryo no yo na yakuwari mo kanete orimasu node, nanitozo go-shoryo kudasaimase.
Reply
お通しとは、居酒屋で最初にお出しする小鉢の料理のことでございます。席料のような役割も兼ねておりますので、何卒ご了承くださいませ。
おとおしとは、いざかやでさいしょにおだしするこばちのりょうりのことでございます。せきりょうのようなやくわりもかねておりますので、なにとぞごしょうりょうくださいませ。
Otoshi is a small appetizer served at the beginning at an izakaya. It also serves as a sort of seat charge, so we appreciate your understanding.
Gesture & etiquette
Slight bow while explaining, gesturing politely toward the small dish with an open hand.
Do not refuse the Otoshi, as it is a standard part of the dining experience and typically cannot be declined in many establishments.