Question
I’m traveling to Japan for the first time and want to try ordering food in a Japanese restaurant. How do I ask “What do you recommend?” in Japanese to get advice from the staff?
Japango Editor Team
おすすめは何（なん）ですか。
Osusume wa nan desuka?
What do you recommend?
This phrase is quite handy when you’re dining in a Japanese restaurant and are uncertain about what to order. “Osusume” means “recommendation” and “nan desuka?” means “what is?” By using this expression, you signal to the staff that you’re open to trying something they suggest, which might be a popular or specialty dish at the restaurant. Such interactions can lead to a delightful culinary experience with authentic Japanese food that you might not have tried otherwise. Enjoy your meal!
