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- Feb. 08. 2025
Have you ever dined at a ryotei—a traditional Japanese fine dining establishment? Embracing its etiquette not only enhances your experience but also lends an air of authenticity, making you feel like a true connoisseur of Japanese culture. While savoring the exquisite meal is, of course, the most important part, indulging in these time-honored customs offers a chance to fully immerse yourself in the ryotei experience, elevating your meal to a memorable culinary journey.
If there’s one rule to keep, it’s this: save the perfume for another day. A ryotei meal is an aromatic experience, and the natural fragrance of each course is part of the charm. Going scent-free lets you tune into the delicate notes in the food—and it’s a subtle sign of respect for the chef’s craft.
You might be greeted by a gesoku-ban (shoe attendant) at the entrance, and if you are, they’ve got things covered. Just remove your shoes and step inside—no need to arrange them yourself. It’s a small ritual that signals a shift from the busy outside world to the calm embrace of the ryotei.
Is it a requirement to wear white socks? Not exactly. But wearing clean, white socks adds a thoughtful touch and complements the elegance of a ryotei’s setting, especially if you’re walking on pristine tatami mats. It’s a small detail that says, “I get it,” without making a big deal of it.
The fine ceramics and lacquerware you’ll handle during the meal are beautiful and sometimes delicate. To avoid any accidental scratches, consider removing your rings or bracelets beforehand. It’s one of those little things that helps keep everything pristine—and lets you relax without worry.
When moving dishes, try lifting them instead of dragging them across the table. Sliding can be a bit noisy and might leave a mark, which could break the serene vibe. A quiet lift-and-move is all it takes to keep things flowing smoothly.
A ryotei meal is a chance to unplug. Though snapping a photo here and there is fine (and let’s face it, the presentation is stunning), consider tucking your phone away or setting it on a small handkerchief or cloth as a considerate touch after that. Soak in the experience and let the chefs’ artistry do the talking.
A ryotei meal is usually a slow, seasonal journey, with each dish presented in its own time. Relax into the pace, savor each bite, and embrace the flow. There’s no rush—just enjoy every delicate, hand-crafted moment.
At the end of your meal, a warm “Gochisousama-deshita” is a simple, heartfelt way to show appreciation for the meal and those who prepared it. (OPTIONAL) The direct translation is along the lines of “it was a feast” or “thank you for the meal”. It’s like a bow to the artistry you’ve experienced, capping off your meal on a high note.
Ryotei dining is about harmony, mindfulness, and yes—etiquette—but don’t let that steal the spotlight from your enjoyment. Knowing these customs is like having insider knowledge, but the real takeaway? To relax, dive in, and let yourself get lost in the magic of it all.
Photo credit: Masayuki Sakamoto