
Question
I’m traveling to Japan and want to try ordering sushi at a local sushi bar, but I’m not confident with my Japanese. How do I ask the staff, “What do you recommend?” in Japanese?

Japango Editor Team
おすすめは何(なん)ですか。
Osusume wa nan desuka?
What do you recommend?
When you visit a sushi bar in Japan, it’s common to see a variety of options that might be overwhelming if you’re not familiar with Japanese sushi. Asking for a recommendation is a great way to try popular or seasonal items. “Osusume” means “recommendation”, and by using “nan desuka?”, you’re asking “what is it?” or “what is recommended?”. This phrase can also be used at other types of restaurants or shops when you want to know the staff’s recommendations. Remember, trying new things can enhance your cultural experience!