The Ultimate Guide to Japanese Menu Reading: From Ramen to Kaiseki
Japan is a culinary paradise, but for non-Japanese speakers, ordering food can sometimes feel like solving a puzzle. From the ticket machines at ramen shops to the elegant handwritten menus of kaiseki establishments, here is your passport to navigating Japanese dining with confidence.
1. The Ramen Shop Ticket Machine
Many casual eateries, especially ramen shops (Ramen-ya), use a ticket vending machine called a shokken-ki. It’s usually located near the entrance.
- Look for the Photos: Newer machines often have touchscreens with photos, but older ones might just have buttons with kanji.
- Top Left Rule: The button in the top-left corner is almost always the shop's signature or most popular dish (Osusume).
- Key Kanji:
- ラーメン (Raamen) - Ramen
- つけ麺 (Tsukemen) - Dipping Noodles
- 大盛 (Oomori) - Large Portion
- 替玉 (Kaedama) - Extra Noodle Refill
2. Izakaya: The Japanese Pub
Izakayas are casual drinking establishments serving small shared plates. Menus here are often extensive and sometimes handwritten.
- Start with Beverages: Waiters will usually ask for your drink order immediately. "Nama biiru" (Draft beer) is the standard starter.
- Ordering Categories: Menus are often divided into:
- 刺身 (Sashimi) - Raw Fish
- 焼き鳥 (Yakitori) - Grilled Skewers
- 揚げ物 (Agemono) - Deep-fried foods (like Karaage)
- Electronic Tablets: Many modern chains have tablets with English language options – a lifesaver for travelers!
Don't Get Lost in Translation
Japanese menus can be poetic, using seasonal names that dictionary apps might miss. Use menuEasyyy to instantly translate and identify ingredients, ensuring you know exactly whether you're ordering chicken or cartilage!
3. Kaiseki: High-End Dining
Kaiseki is a traditional multi-course Japanese dinner. You usually don't order individual dishes; instead, you choose a course level.
- Matsu (松), Take (竹), Ume (梅): These represent tiers of quality or price.
Matsu (Pine) is the highest, Take (Bamboo) is the middle, and Ume (Plum) is the basic tier. - Omakase: Meaning "I'll leave it up to you," this entrusts the chef to serve you the best seasonal dishes of the day.
4. Essential Etiquette
Itadakimasu: Said before eating, meaning "I humbly receive."
Gochisousama deshita: Said after the meal to thank the staff for the feast.
No Tipping: Tipping is not customary in Japan and can even be considered rude. Good
service is standard pride.
Embrace the Adventure
Japan's food culture is deep and welcoming. Even if you make a mistake, a smile goes a long way. With a little knowledge and the right tools, you're ready to feast!