I’ve often seen visitors at sushi restaurants looking puzzled—wondering what kind of sushi they’ve been served, or unsure about how to eat it properly.
That’s why I’ve put together a list of useful tips to help you feel more comfortable and confident before visiting a nice sushi restaurant.
🏮【Entering & Ordering】
1. Should I say something when I enter a sushi restaurant?
→ Yes! A simple “Konnichiwa, I have a reservation at [time], under [name]” or “I don’t have a reservation—do you have space?” is polite and appreciated.
2. Should I sit at the counter or at a table?
→ The counter is considered a special seat. If you feel comfortable, it’s a great place to watch the chef prepare sushi right in front of you.
3. Do I need to take off my shoes? How should I sit?
→ At tatami-style seating, yes—remove your shoes. At Western-style tables, no need.
4. How do I order omakase without sounding awkward?
→ Just say “Omakase onegaishimasu” (Please choose for me). Some places offer several omakase sets. If you have preferences, it’s okay to ask, “Can I order à la carte (okonomi) today?” or “What’s recommended today?”
5. Should I order everything at once?
→ You can order all at once or gradually. Either is totally acceptable.
6. Can I order directly from the chef or should I ask the staff?
→ If you’re seated at the counter, ordering directly from the chef is fine. At a table, go through the staff.
7. Is it rude to speak English?
→ Not at all. Speaking slowly and politely is always appreciated.
🍣【Manners While Eating】
8. Is it okay to eat sushi with my hands, or should I use chopsticks?
→ Either is fine! Eating with your hands is traditional and completely acceptable.
9. Can I share a piece of sushi?
→ Sushi is typically one piece per person. If you’d like to share, ask politely beforehand.
10. Is it bad manners to eat only the fish and leave the rice?
→ Yes. Sushi is designed to be enjoyed as one harmonious bite. Leaving the rice is frowned upon.
11. What if I can’t eat a whole piece in one bite?
→ One bite is ideal, but if needed, two quiet bites are okay—just try not to make a mess.
12. Can I flip the sushi over to dip the fish in soy sauce?
→ Yes, gently turning the piece to dip the fish side is proper technique.
13. Will I be judged for using too much soy sauce?
→ It’s not about being judged, but excessive soy sauce is considered poor etiquette. Letting it drip or shaking off excess is especially discouraged.
14. Can I ask for no wasabi?
→ Yes! Just say, “Wasabi nuki de onegaishimasu” (No wasabi, please).
15. Is it okay to put gari (pickled ginger) on sushi?
→ Gari is meant as a palate cleanser. It’s usually eaten between pieces, not on top.
16. Is it rude to order the same item repeatedly?
→ Not at all. If you love something, feel free to order it again.
17. Can I pour my own tea?
→ At casual spots, go ahead. At upscale places, staff usually refills it for you. At the counter, you can politely ask.
18. Where do I wipe my hands?
→ Use the oshibori (wet towel) provided at your seat.
🗣️【Interaction with the Chef】
19. Can I talk to the chef at the counter?
→ Yes, just be mindful of their pace. A short, kind comment is welcome when timing feels right. The chef might look intimidating, but deep down, he’s just a regular guy with a big heart.
20. Should I compliment the sushi?
→ Definitely! Saying “Oishii desu” (It’s delicious) is a great way to connect.
21. Is it okay to take photos or videos?
→ Depends on the restaurant. Always ask: “May I take a photo?” before doing so.
22. Is it awkward to eat quietly?
→ Not at all. Quiet enjoyment is completely normal in Japan.
23. Can I ask what type of fish I’m eating?
→ Yes—if the chef isn’t too busy, most will happily explain the ingredients.
🧾【Paying & Leaving】
24. Do I pay at the table or the register?
→ Usually at the register. You can say “Okaikei onegaishimasu” (Check, please) .
25. Is it rude to split the bill?
→ Not at all. Splitting the bill among friends is common and acceptable.
26. Should I leave a tip?
→ Tipping isn’t customary in Japan, but the culture is slowly evolving. If you insist on giving a small thank-you tip, be discreet and polite—it may be accepted.
27. Should I say “Gochisousama deshita”?
→ Yes! It means “Thank you for the meal” and is warmly received.
28. Can I stay and chat after eating?
→ If it’s busy, it’s polite to leave soon after finishing. For long conversations, consider moving to a café.
29. What if I forget something at the restaurant?
→ Just return and say, “Wasuremono o shimashita” (I forgot something). Staff will help you kindly.
30. Is there anything else I should be aware of before visiting a sushi restaurant?
Since sushi is all about delicate aromas and flavors, we kindly ask you to avoid strong fragrances like perfume or hair treatments
Every restaurant has its own vibe, so take a moment to feel the atmosphere and just ask if you’re not sure what’s okay.
