Guide for Japanese Restaurants

Going to a Japanese restaurant is as much about eating as entertainment (at least for foreigners): no other staff in the world is as delightful and charming as Japanese staff. A visit to a Japanese restaurant starts at the entrance where the most popular dishes are on display (modeled in plastic). Then you get greeted by a charming lady in a Kimono bowing and ushering you inside. There another staff in Western uniform will lead you to your table. Before entering the dinning area you have to take off your shoes and put them in a locker and be handed the key to it. Normally you can choose between Western seating on chairs or Japanese style on a soft cushion and resting your legs in a hole in the ground or on a pillow. Once seated another lady in a Kimono will take your order. Ordering is easy as Japanese menu cards are often illustrated with colorful pictures. In no time after ordering the food will arrive and if you have ordered a set menu will most likely consist out of some Sushi or Sashimi, rice, Udon noodles (thick wheat noodles), tempura (battered vegetables and fish) and green tea. A meal like that costs no more than 10-12 $ so it is a real bargain! The feature I like best is a bell button at every table: anytime you wish something, just push it and an attendant will hurry to your table, smiling and bowing. After the meal you will get the bill and you pay at the cashier at the entrance. When exiting you are very likely wished goodbye by the staff (in sync and while bowing). Like Chinese restaurants Japanese restaurants are incredibly efficient and fast. Enjoy!