Planning a trip to Japan with your little ones? Worried about navigating the food scene with kids in tow? Concerns about language barriers, kid-friendly menus, and proper etiquette are natural.
But fear not! Japan offers a plethora of restaurants that cater to families, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable dining experience for everyone. This guide will walk you through choosing family-friendly eateries and understanding Japanese food culture and manners, so you can focus on creating happy memories with your loved ones.
By the end of this article, you will:
- Discover restaurants where you and your children can dine comfortably.
- Understand Japanese food culture and manners, ensuring a pleasant dining experience.
- Learn about the unique services and charms of Japanese restaurants compared to those in other countries.
- Feel confident and prepared to enjoy delicious Japanese food with your family!
1. Worry-Free Dining: Family-Friendly Japanese Restaurants
Japanese restaurants are known for their diverse options and thoughtful considerations. You’ll find plenty of places that warmly welcome families with children.
Restaurants Welcoming Children
- Family Restaurants: These offer affordable prices, extensive menus, and dedicated kids’ menus.
- Conveyor Belt Sushi (Kaiten-zushi): The fun of picking sushi from a moving conveyor belt keeps children entertained.
- Udon and Soba Noodle Shops: Simple and easy-to-eat noodle dishes are popular with kids. Many shops offer children’s portions and utensils.
Catering to Dietary Restrictions
- Allergy-Friendly Options: Some restaurants provide allergy-friendly menus to accommodate children with dietary restrictions. Inquire beforehand to ensure a safe and enjoyable meal.
- Vegetarian and Vegan Options: An increasing number of restaurants offer vegetarian and vegan options, catering to various dietary needs.
2. Japanese Family Restaurants: A Lifesaver for Families
Family restaurants, or “famiresu” for short, are a great option for families traveling with children. They are known for their reasonable prices, extensive menus, and dedicated kids’ menus.
Popular Family Restaurant Chains
- Gusto: Offers a wide variety of dishes, mainly Western cuisine, but also includes Japanese and Chinese options. Their kids’ menu is extensive, and some sets even come with toys.
- Saizeriya: While an Italian restaurant chain, Saizeriya also serves kid-friendly favorites like hamburgers and doria (rice gratin). Their affordable prices are another plus.
- Royal Host: A slightly more upscale family restaurant, Royal Host offers high-quality dishes, making it suitable for special occasions. They also have a good selection on their kids’ menu.
Navigating Family Restaurants
- Reservations: It’s a good idea to make reservations in advance, especially during peak hours or for larger groups.
- Ordering: Many restaurants use touch-panel systems for ordering. Even if you don’t understand Japanese, picture menus make it easy to choose your dishes.
- Payment: In addition to cash, most restaurants accept credit cards and electronic payment methods.
3. Conveyor Belt Sushi: A Fun and Interactive Experience
Conveyor belt sushi, or “kaiten-zushi,” is an entertaining dining experience where you can pick sushi plates as they pass by on a conveyor belt. Its affordability and interactive nature make it a hit with children.
Popular Conveyor Belt Sushi Chains
- Sushiro: Japan’s largest conveyor belt sushi chain, known for its extensive menu and reasonable prices.
- Kura Sushi: Offers a variety of sushi, side dishes, and desserts. The “Bikkura Pon!” game adds an element of fun for kids.
- Hama Sushi: This chain prides itself on fresh ingredients and carefully prepared sushi rice. Ordering is easy with touch-panel systems.
4. Udon and Soba: Kid-Approved Favorites
Udon and soba are simple and easy-to-eat noodle dishes that are popular with children. Choose from warm udon, cold zaru soba, and other variations depending on the season and your preferences.
Children’s Menus
- Kodomo Udon (Kids’ Udon): Udon noodles served in a smaller portion, perfect for young children.
- Kodomo Soba (Kids’ Soba): Similar to kids’ udon, this option features a smaller portion of soba noodles.
Choosing Udon and Soba Restaurants
- Table Seating: If you have young children, look for restaurants with table seating for a more comfortable dining experience.
- Children’s Utensils: Check if the restaurant provides children’s utensils and chairs beforehand.
5. Other Recommended Family-Friendly Restaurants
- Okonomiyaki: This savory pancake is made with a wheat flour batter mixed with cabbage, pork, and other ingredients, cooked on a tabletop grill. It’s a fun and interactive activity that children can participate in.
- Curry Specialty Shops: Japanese curry is typically mild and can be adjusted to suit your child’s preference.
- Department Store Restaurants: Department stores often have a variety of restaurants, some with dedicated kids’ spaces.
6. Japanese Food Culture and Manners: Ensuring a Pleasant Dining Experience
Understanding a bit about Japanese food culture and manners will help you feel more comfortable and confident while dining.
Basic Manners
- “Itadakimasu” and “Gochisousamadeshita”: Before and after your meal, express your gratitude by saying “itadakimasu” (let’s eat) and “gochisousamadeshita” (thank you for the meal).
- Chopstick Etiquette: There are a few etiquette rules associated with using chopsticks. Familiarize yourself with the basic holding technique and avoid certain actions considered impolite.
Considerations When Dining with Children
- Avoid Excessive Noise: Be mindful of other guests and try to keep your children from being too loud or disruptive.
- Don’t Waste Food: Order appropriate portions to minimize leftovers. Inquire about takeout options if available.
Comparison with Other Cultures
- Tipping: Tipping is not customary in Japan.
- Table Manners: Table manners vary across cultures. In Japan, slurping noodles is perfectly acceptable, but avoid making noise when drinking soup.
Conclusion
This article has provided a comprehensive guide to family-friendly dining in Japan, covering restaurant recommendations, Japanese food culture, and manners.
Japan offers numerous restaurants where families can enjoy delicious meals without worry. Use this article as your resource to navigate the Japanese food scene and create lasting memories with your loved ones.
Now, embark on a delightful culinary adventure with your family in Japan!
