Question
I’m going to a traditional Japanese restaurant with my Japanese colleagues for the first time. I’m concerned about making a good impression. How do I politely ask for recommendations in Japanese if I can’t understand the menu?
Japango Editor Team
おすすめを教（おし）えていただけますか。
Osusume o oshiete itadakemasu ka?
Could you please tell me your recommendations?
This is a polite and useful phrase when you want to ask for recommendations, especially if you’re struggling with the language. Osusume means “recommendations,” and oshiete itadakemasu ka is a polite way to ask someone to tell or teach you something.
This phrase can be used in a variety of settings, from restaurants and shops to when you need general advice. Remember to accompany the request with a smile and a thank you after you receive the recommendation by saying: ありがとうございます (Arigatou gozaimasu), which means “Thank you very much.”
