Polite to Host
Cultural · Dining
You
おかわりはいかがですか？
おかわりはいかがですか？
Would you like a second helping?
Romaji: Okawari wa ikaga desu ka? / Reply Romaji: Arigatō gozaimasu. De wa, sukoshi dake.
Reply
ありがとうございます。では、少しだけ。
ありがとうございます。では、すこしだけ。
Thank you. Just a little then.
Gesture & etiquette
Reach toward the pot or serving bowl with ladle in hand as you offer; wait for their bowl or plate to be extended — don't simply scoop food onto it without their invitation; a warm, genuinely expectant smile encourages a 'yes'.
Offering おかわり (seconds) is central to Japanese hospitality — the host may offer 2–3 times before accepting a decline. Guests who enjoy the food show it by accepting; a first decline is often interpreted as polite hesitation rather than a genuine no. The host presenting the ladle or serving spoon as they offer is the unspoken signal to accept freely.