
Question
I’m planning to visit a sushi restaurant in Tokyo and I’m concerned about not knowing how to order properly. How do I ask the staff “What do you recommend?” in Japanese?

Japango Editor Team
おすすめは何ですか。
Osusume wa nan desu ka?
What do you recommend?
This is a handy phrase when dining out in Japan and wanting to try local specialties or the chef’s special dishes. “Osusume” means “recommendation,” and “nan desu ka” translates to “what is it?” When you ask a staff member this question, they’ll likely suggest their popular or signature dishes, helping you enjoy a delicious and authentic dining experience.
You can use this expression in any restaurant, simply by saying “Osusume wa nan desu ka?” when you want staff recommendations.