What happens if you don't finish your food in Japan?


What happens if you don't finish your food in Japan? Not finishing one's meal is not considered impolite in Japan, but rather is taken as a signal to the host that one wishes to be served another helping. Conversely, finishing one's meal completely, especially the rice, indicates that one is satisfied and therefore does not wish to be served any more.


Is it OK to ask for fork in Japan?

Although it is acceptable to ask for a fork, it is always important to respect chopsticks as part of Japanese culture. For those who do not know how to use chopsticks, trying to learn is also a sign of respect.


Is it rude to take leftovers home in Japan?

While restaurant portion sizes in Western countries have birthed a custom of taking leftovers home for a second meal, this is not the case in Japan. If you are considering asking for a take-home container, the answer, unfortunately, will almost always be no.