When I first moved to Tokyo, I was paralyzed by the fear of ordering the wrong thing or mangling a complicated sentence. Then, a veteran expat told me: ‘Don’t overcomplicate it. Use kore o kudasai.’ It was a game-changer. It’s polite, direct, and universally understood.
However, there is a right way and a wrong way to deploy this phrase. Simply pointing and saying ‘Kore!’ can come across as aggressive. To sound like a seasoned traveler, always pair it with a slight bow and the full phrase. It bridges the gap between ‘clueless tourist’ and ‘respectful guest.’
Customer: (Pointing at a display case) Sumimasen, kore o kudasai.
Staff: Hai, kashikomarimashita! (Yes, certainly!)
If you want to refine your ordering skills further, you might also want to look into Nama-biru Hitotsu: The Essential Guide to Ordering Your First Japanese Beer Like a Local to add some specific flair to your dining experiences.
- Be Specific: If there are multiple sizes, add the size (e.g., ‘S-saizu o kudasai’).
- Add ‘Sumimasen’: Always start with ‘Sumimasen’ (Excuse me) to grab the staff’s attention politely before pointing.
- The Body Language: A small nod when saying ‘kudasai’ is essential for showing ‘omotenashi’ (hospitality/mutual respect).
Common Mistakes Foreigners Make
The most frequent error is neglecting the ‘o’ particle or dropping the ‘kudasai’ entirely, which can sound blunt to the sensitive Japanese ear. Another common pitfall is using this phrase when the menu requires a more specific booking or reservation process. If you find yourself in a situation where you need to secure a spot ahead of time, check out our guide on Yoyaku Shite Imasu: The Secret to Stress-Free Travel in Japan.
Remember, while ‘kore o kudasai’ is a lifesaver, it shouldn’t replace your curiosity. Once you master this, try to learn the name of the dish you’re ordering! The staff will appreciate the effort, and it’s a great way to deepen your appreciation for local culinary culture.
