JAPAN IN
ONE MINUTE 
~ “Gochisousama Deshita“: A Simple Phrase That Shows Deep Gratitude in Japan ~
I ate so much!
Oh, by the way, Issy, what do you say after a meal again?
It’s not “Itadakimasu“, right?”
In Japan, we say “Gochisousama deshita” after finishing a meal.
It’s a polite expression of gratitude, not just to the cook, but to everyone involved in the process of preparing the meal,
from farmers to servers.
It shows respect and appreciation for the food and those who made it possible.
Tap to listen: “Gochisousama deshita”
So interesting! In Sweden, we might thank the chef or say “Tack för maten” (thanks for the food),
but it’s not something we say twice every time like you do in Japan.
Wow, Japanese people say thank you twice before and after eating?!
That’s a lot of gratitude!
Exactly! “Itadakimasu” before the meal and “Gochisousama deshita” after.
You can try it too especially when you’re eating out in Japan.
If you say “Gochisousama deshita” to the restaurant staff when you’re leaving, they’ll really appreciate it.
When I eat at a restaurant, I also try to say “Gochisousama deshita” to the staff as I leave.
And of course, I say it when Issy cooks for me too!
Okay then… “Gochisousama deshita!”.
I’m a polite cat now!
