Saying Thank You in Japanese

If you’re an avid fan of sushi, you may occasionally find yourself in a situation where you want to express your gratitude to a Japanese itamae, or sushi chef. Fortunately, even when he or she doesn’t speak a word of English, it can be easy to say “thank you” to your chef. Give the following simple Japanese terms a try:

  • Arigato: A standard “thank you”.
  • Domo: A less polite, more informal way to say “thank you”.
  • Domo arigato: A more polite alternative to “arigato”, the equivalent of saying “thank you very much”.
  • Domo sumimasen: A very polite “thank you”. This term is used while you are eating or engaged in an activity for which you are thanking someone.
  • Domo arigato gozaimasu: Another way to say “domo sumimasen”.
  • Domo arigato gozaimasta: Similar to “domo arigato gozaimasu”, but said following the completion of a meal or activity.
  • Oishii: “Delicious”. Saying this by itself serves as an informal way to say “this is delicious”.
  • Oishikatta desu: “It was delicious”. Tell this to your chef following a meal.

If you’re looking for a high-quality, authentic sushi experience, come and visit us at Flo Japanese Restaurant in Bellevue.