Here’s some tips for when you are ordering at a cafe in Japan:

Counter Service vs Table

Most modern cafés you place your order and pay at the counter. However at Kissaten’s (old-school cafés) they often have table service. So you have to wait for the staff to come to you.

If you are unsure, I normally just hover at the entrance and the staff will usually greet and then guide you what to do.

Useful Phrases to Know

If you would like to ask if they have an english menu you can say “Eigo no menyū wa arimasu ka?” (AY-go no MEN-yoo wa ah-ree-MAS ka?)

The easiest way to order is usually by pointing on the menu of what you would like and saying “Kore O Kudasai” (Koh-reh oh koo-dah-sigh)

If you want to order for takeout you can say “Teikuauto de onegaishimasu” (TAY-koo-out-oh day oh-neh-GUY-shee-mass)

Pay Attention to the Menu Style

Often times you can say yourself some money by ordering a ‘set’, this usually includes a drink and a food item (look out for セット)

Don’t forget your Table Etiquette

In Japan it’s polite to stay quiet or speaking softly, especially in smaller cafes. If it’s quiet when you go in then that usually indicates the vibe of the cafe. Please remember to clean up your table if it’s self service. It’s very common in Japan for this to be the case. Most cafes will have return counters for your trays/cups/plates.

Paying at the Register

Most places will accept cash or IC Cards (like PASMO or SUICA). When paying in cash place the cash on the small tray that is on the counter. This is polite and part of Japanese etiquette.