Polite to Staff
Cultural · Dining
居酒屋は初めてなんです。おすすめのメニューを教えていただけますか？ — This is my first time at an izakaya. Could you recommend something from the menu? (Cultural · Dining, Polite to Staff, JLPT N3)
You
居酒屋は初めてなんです。おすすめのメニューを教えていただけますか？
いざかやははじめてなんです。おすすめのメニューをおしえていただけますか？
This is my first time at an izakaya. Could you recommend something from the menu?
Romaji: Izakaya wa hajimete nan desu. Osusume no menyuu wo oshiete itadakemasu ka? / Reply Romaji: Irasshaimase! Dewa, mazu edamame to karaage wa ikaga deshou ka.
Reply
いらっしゃいませ！では、まず枝豆と唐揚げはいかがでしょうか。
いらっしゃいませ！では、まずえだまめとからあげはいかがでしょうか。
Welcome! Well, for starters, how about edamame and karaage (Japanese fried chicken)?
Gesture & etiquette
After being seated, take a moment to scan the menu before calling the server. In busy izakaya, waving your hand slightly while making eye contact gets attention. Admitting it's your first visit is welcomed — staff typically enjoy guiding newcomers through the experience.
Key izakaya customs: call the server by saying 「すみません！」loudly — they won't come until signaled. Order drinks first (「とりあえずビール！」to start with beer). お通し (otoshi, a small appetizer) is automatically served and charged. Order food in multiple rounds rather than all at once. Say 「お会計！」to get the bill.