Basic Lessons
At the Restaurant (2)
Dialogue
Click here for the dialogue for "At the Restaurant."
Cultural Notes
Most Japanese restaurants, except fancy ones, have a showcase near the entrance where they display their food. The food is usually made of wax or plastic and looks very real, so you will get good idea what you are ordering.
When you are seated at a table, you will get complimentary water or Japanese tea. You will often get "oshibori (a hot, wet towel)" to clean your hands, too.
At most restaurants you pay at the cashier rather than at the table. "Shouhizei (consumption tax, currently 5%)" is sometimes included or added. Tipping is not customary in Japan.
