Japanese food has always been my comfort food. When I’m feeling under the weather, a piping hot bowl of ramen will usually be my go-to to make me feel better. One thing that has stayed with me throughout my travels are the phrases used before, during and after a meal in Japan. These phrases not only show politeness to the chef, but allows one to show appreciation and respect to what we are putting in our bodies. Here are some of the phrases used in Japanese culture:

[めしあがれ] • Meshiagare]: Said by the chef or host to show that the food has been served and is ready to eat.

[いただきます • Itadakimasu]: This expression of gratitude originated from the verb itadaku (which means “to receive”) and this phrase is not said to others but used to express personal thanks.

[ごちそうさま • Gochisousama]: This translates as a more formal way of saying “it was a feast,” as the word gochiso refers to a meal of luxurious foods. Before saying gochisousama, it is also good manners to return all the dishes and chopsticks back to where they were at the start of the meal.

[おいしい • Oishii]: If your meal is delicious, then let people know by saying oishii, which is an enthusiastic term to communicate that the food you’re eating is good.

[おまかせ • Omakase]: Translates as “I’ll leave it up to you,” reflecting how Japanese dining culture allows the chef to create a specialized menu with no input from the customer.

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