🍣 Dining Guide / Dining Etiquette

Itadakimasu & Gochisou

Itadakimasu & Gochisousama (いただきます / ごちそうさま)

📖 Meaning & Etiquette

Crucial cultural phrases said before and after meals to show deep gratitude. Say 'Itadakimasu' before eating and 'Gochisōsama deshita' after finishing.

💡 Cultural Background

'Itadakimasu' literally translates to 'I humbly receive [lifes of the ingredients]'. 'Gochisōsama' honors the host who 'ran around' ('chisō') to source and prepare the meal.

💬 Useful Conversation Phrases

Before touching your food, clasp hands together in front of your chest, bow slightly, and say 'Itadakimasu'. Repeat this after eating with 'Gochisōsama deshita'.

日本のレストランでは、食べる前に手を合わせて「いただきます」と言いましょう。 / 美味しい料理を作ってくれたシェフに「ごちそうさまでした」と伝えて店を出ました。

🔊 In Japanese restaurants, let's clasp our hands and say 'Itadakimasu' before eating. / I left the store after saying 'Gochisōsama deshita' to the chef who cooked the delicious food.

❓ Bilingual Restaurant Quiz

Right before eating, what is the crucial gratitude greeting said with clasped hands?

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