How to Order Dumplings in Japanese (Without Accidentally Asking for a Pet Turtle)

You know that feeling when you’re absolutely starving, and the only thing that will fix your soul is a steaming plate of dumplings? Yeah, me too. Dumplings are little pockets of happiness, filled with everything good in the world. But if you’re in Japan and don’t speak the language, ordering them might feel like trying to defuse a bomb—one wrong move, and suddenly you’ve got a plate of something… mysterious.

Fear not, fellow dumpling enthusiast! I’ve got you covered with this fun, foolproof guide on how to order dumplings in Japanese without causing an international incident.

Step 1: Learn the Magic Word (Or, What Are Dumplings in Japanese?)

First things first, you need to know what you’re ordering. In Japan, dumplings usually fall into a few different categories:

• Gyoza (餅子) – The beloved pan-fried dumplings with a crispy bottom and juicy filling. These are your ride-or-die dumplings, the MVP of any izakaya menu.
• Shumai (燃子麵) – The soft, steamed dumplings often stuffed with pork or shrimp. A dim sum classic that Japan has fully embraced.
• Nikuman (肉饅) – The big, fluffy steamed buns filled with meat. Not exactly what we think of as “dumplings,” but hey, they belong in the club.
• Dango (団子) – These are sweet rice flour dumplings on a stick. If you order these expecting gyoza, well… surprise!

So, before we go any further, make sure you remember the word gyoza (餅子)—because that’s what you’ll probably be craving.

Step 2: Walk Into a Restaurant Like You Know What You’re Doing

Confidence is key. Even if you have no idea what’s happening, act like you do. Walk in, smile, and say “Sumimasen!” (Excuse me!) like you’ve been doing it your whole life.

At this point, one of two things will happen:

1. The server will greet you with a friendly “Irasshaimase!” (Welcome!), and you’ll be led to a seat.
2. The server will look at you expectantly, waiting for you to either speak more Japanese or panic and run.

Stay strong. We’ve got this.

Step 3: How to Actually Order Dumplings

Now, let’s get to the good stuff. You have a few simple options when it comes to ordering:

• “Gyoza o kudasai!” (餅子をください!) – “Please give me gyoza!” (This is your safest bet.)
• “Gyoza o hitotsu onegaishimasu.” (餅子を一つお願いします) – “One order of gyoza, please.” (Sounds a little fancier!)
• “Gyoza to bīru, onegaishimasu!” (餅子とビール、お願いします!) – “Gyoza and a beer, please!” (Now we’re talking.)

If you want more than one order, you can say:

• “Futatsu” (two)
• “Mittsu” (three)
• “Yottsu” (four)

Just pop that in after “Gyoza o” and you’re golden.

Step 4: Avoiding Hilarious Mishaps

Okay, so what if you get nervous and mix things up? Well… it happens. Here are a few mistakes you might want to avoid:

• Accidentally asking for a pet turtle.
  “Kame o kudasai” (亀をください) means “Please give me a turtle.” Unless you’re opening a reptile café, stick with gyoza.
• Ordering raw dumplings (unless that’s your thing).
  If you say “nama gyoza” (生餅子), they might think you want uncooked dumplings. Probably not what you’re after.
• Screwing up numbers and getting a dumpling apocalypse.
  If you say “jyuu” (ten) instead of “futatsu” (two), you might end up with enough dumplings to feed a small army.

Step 5: The Perfect Finishing Touch

Once your glorious plate of dumplings arrives, you’ll need to season them properly. Here’s the pro move:

• Mix soy sauce (醤油), vinegar (酢), and rayu (辣油, chili oil) in a little dipping dish.
• Dip each dumpling lovingly into this perfect concoction.
• Take a bite, close your eyes, and try not to cry from happiness.

Bonus Tip: Take It to the Next Level

Want to sound like an absolute dumpling pro? Here are some phrases to impress your server:

• “Oishii desu!” (おいしいです) – “It’s delicious!”
• “Motto hoshii desu!” (もっと欲しいです) – “I want more!”
• “Saikou desu!” (最高です) – “This is the best!”

Final Thoughts (Or, Why This Matters More Than You Think)

Sure, ordering dumplings in Japan might seem like a small thing, but it’s also a power move. It’s about stepping out of your comfort zone, trying something new, and, most importantly, eating amazing food without looking like a lost tourist.

So next time you find yourself in Japan, craving that crispy, juicy goodness, walk into that restaurant with confidence, say “Gyoza o kudasai!”, and enjoy every bite.

And if you do accidentally order a turtle? Well… at least you’ll have a great story to tell.

Hungry for more? Stick around for more travel and food adventures!