Meal Time Japanese

Dining with a Japanese family is definitely one of the best experiences you can have. There are some basic things you should bear in mind when invited to dine at a Japanese home. Before eating, the Japanese utter the words "itadakimasu" which in English means "I humbly partake."

Your Japanese hosts may make uncomplimentary remarks about the food they will serve you. This is normal and you are expected to reply with kind words about the food. Phrases such as "It looks delicious" are deemed good manners. After eating, you say "gochisosama (deshita)", meaning "Thank you for the meal."