In Japanese restaurants, it’s common to receive complimentary water, tea, and oshibori (wet towels) without ordering them. In izakayas (Japanese pubs), in addition to these, you may also receive a small appetizer dish called “otoshi.” This “otoshi” can be puzzling not only for foreign tourists but also for Japanese people who are visiting an izakaya for the first time.
Otoshi is a small appetizer served at Japanese izakaya.
目次
Differences Between Complimentary Oshibori, Water, and Tea, and Paid Otoshi
- Water, tea, and oshibori are complimentary services provided in many restaurants, cafes, ramen shops, and other eateries.
- They are considered basic services for customers to enjoy their meals and drinks.
- Otoshi is mainly served in izakayas and small Japanese restaurants that serve alcohol.
- It’s a small appetizer dish served while waiting for the ordered dishes, to be enjoyed with drinks.
- It often includes a seat charge or service fee, and is usually a paid item.
- The appetizer at a Japanese izakaya also shows the spirit of “omotenashi” (hospitality).
スポンサー リンク
Reasons Why Foreign Tourists Are Confused by Otoshi
- There may be insufficient explanation about otoshi for foreign tourists.
- Misunderstandings can easily arise if there’s no explanation on the menu or if it’s not provided in English.
- The price of otoshi may not be listed on the menu.
- Some people are surprised to learn the price for the first time when they receive the bill.
- Depending on the izakaya, there may be an atmosphere where it’s difficult to refuse otoshi.
- It can be especially challenging for those who don’t speak Japanese.
Issues and Improvements Regarding Otoshi
- Clearly state explanations about otoshi (contents, price, whether it can be refused, etc.) on the menu.
- Provide explanations in English and other languages.
- Clearly state the price of otoshi on the menu.
- The charge for the appetizer will be explained at the time of payment.
- Clearly communicate that otoshi can be refused.
- Ensure friendly customer service that doesn’t show displeasure when it’s refused.
Types of Otoshi
- Edamame (soybeans)
- Hiyayakko (cold tofu)
- Tsukemono (pickled vegetables)
- Salad
- Seafood dressed with vinegar
- Nimono (simmered dish)
- Chinmi (delicacies such as salted fish guts or spicy cod roe)
Can Otoshi Be Refused or Exchanged?
In most cases, it’s difficult to refuse otoshi. However, some izakayas may ac
- Allergies: If you have allergies, inform the izakaya in advance, and they may change the otoshi or refrain from serving it.
- Disliked Ingredients: Consult with the izakaya if there are ingredients you dislike. They may change the otoshi or remove the ingredients.
- Choice of Otoshi: Some izakaya may allow you to choose your preferred otoshi from several options.
Summary
- Complimentary water, tea, and oshibori are free services provided in many restaurants.
- Otoshi is a paid appetizer dish mainly served in izakayas.
- Otoshi is usually a paid item. The price varies depending on the restaurant.
- Check the menu or ask the staff about the contents and price of otoshi.
- Otoshi is a part of Japanese izakaya culture, and there are various types depending on the restaurant.
- If you have any concerns about otoshi, feel free to ask the staff.
Otoshi is a part of Japanese izakaya culture, but it requires more careful explanation and consideration to be understood by foreign tourists.