Japanese Culture in New York - Chopsticks NY
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In December and January, Japan heats up with the Party fever. In addition to western Christmas and New Year’s parties, Japanese people customarily hold bonenkai to celebrate the year’s finale. Bonenkai vary in style, being big or small, formal or informal, a few hours long or overnight, etc. People typically join at least one bonenkai. Some attend both New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day parties as well, and it’s not unusual for a person to experience 10 parties a month or to go party-hopping during a single day. The Japanese system is greatly different from the western one, so if you party Japanese style this year there are a couple of things that you should know beforehand in order to not be embarrassed (or embarrass someone else). Here are some tips that may help you.
STEP 1
Holding a party in a Japanese restaurant
If you plan to order a Japanese-style party in a Japanese restaurant for the first time, you might encounter some unusual aspects. It’s fun to be surprised, but you might as well know the system to enjoy the party more.
Oshibori, not napkins
Before the meal begins, servers will bring you an oshibori, a wet towel on a special plate. In some restaurants, the servers even unfold the oshibori in front of you and hand it to you. When you finish cleaning your hands with the oshibori, put it back on the plate or on the table if there’s no plate. As the servers take the oshibori away before serving the food, there’s no napkin for you to use during the meal.
The order of dishes served
The first thing you will be served is a tiny starter dish called otoushi or tsukidashi. It’s so small that you can finish it in one bite, but don’t worry about the size of the rest of the meal. The next dish might be an assortment of appetizers, and now you’ll be satisfied with the portion. Depending on the course, you might have a couple of different appetizers before going into the main part of the meal, and the serving order is mostly the same as western-style courses. However, Japanese generally eat some kind of carbohydrate dish at the end of the meal such as udon, soba, ramen, zousui or onigiri so don’t fill up too much and be sure to leave room for the carbs at the end!
A tip for ordering drinks
You can drink whatever you want, of course, but in Japan people generally tend to order the same thing for the first drink of the party, which is usually beer. From the second drink onward, each person can order his/her favorite drink.
O-zashiki; a Japanese-style private room
Some might want to choose an o-zashiki, or private tatami mat room where the Japanese atmosphere can be enjoyed to the fullest. The o-zashiki is separated from other dining areas by setting the room about a foot higher. When you enter the o-zashiki, you should take off your shoes and place them at the corner of the entrance, pointing the toes toward the outside. In the case that you have to leave the room to use the bathroom or make a phone call in the hallway, you should use the slippers provided by the restaurant as this avoids messing up the shoe arrangement.
O-zashiki usually has a tokonoma that is used for altering picture, calligraphy, ikebana arrangement, ceramics, etc. (Photo courtesy of SUSHIDEN America)
This is one step that is harder than just receiving food service in a Japanese restaurant. Arriving on time is an important part of Japanese custom, so you should follow this when joining a party organized by Japanese people. You might experience cultural confusion when you arrive, so here are some things to know in advance:
Check the seating order
The first thing you should be careful of is the seating order. Japanese seating priority is different from that in the west. In Japan, the furthermost inner part of the room is considered the best position and the one near the entrance the worst. Let’s take some examples of o-zashiki, where the key for deciding the best position is the tokonoma, or alcove. In Figure 1 on the right, the tokonoma is located on the inner left-hand side of the room, so the inner left corner of the table is for the highest ranked guest at the party. Then the order can be set as shown. On the other hand, in the case of Figure 2, the best position would be the inner right corner. So instead of deciding your seating for yourself, you should wait for somebody to show you where to sit. However, in a modern party with a casual setting, the general rule for seating is often broken.
Timing for kampai
The Japanese toast, or kampai, is conducted at the very beginning. As soon as all the participants’ glasses have been filled, the highest ranked person of the group (or another designated person) will make a brief greeting before giving the kampai. When doing kampai, you should clink your glass with those around you. It is considered good etiquette to toast with as many people as possible, but if it is a huge group it is okay to clink only with the people around you. One thing you should keep in mind is not to drink your beverage before the kampai.
Filling the glass
People think it is taboo to pour for yourself in Japanese culture. They pay attention to how much others are drinking, and if they find someone’s glass is almost empty they fill it up. It is important not to leave a glass empty until the end of the party. However, there are cases where someone might not want to drink anymore. It is hard to guess how someone feels about drinking, so it is safer to ask them before pouring another drink, by saying “Dou desu ka,” which means, “How about another drink?” Make sure to monitor other people’s glasses and not just your own.
The way to end the party
In closing the party, especially an official one, people do tejime or ceremonial handclapping. Tejime employs a certain type of rhythm which everybody has to clap to. There are several different rhythms depending on the corporate culture and region. Ippon-jime and sanbon-jime are two of the popular ones. It is important that everybody’s handclapping is in sync, so if you are invited to a formal Japanese bonenkai, it might be better to practice ippon-jime and sanbon-jime in advance. Usually the highest ranked person in the group is designated to conduct the tejime.
Eat and drink considering warikan paying
In less formal or smaller parties, people often pay in warikan, which means splitting the total amount evenly. No matter how much (or how little) you eat and drink, you have to pay the same amount as others. The system is not fair for people such as non-alcohol drinkers or those with small appetites, but it’s a custom. You can eat and drink as you like, but it’s recommended to look at how others consume.
The choice for niji-kai, sanji-kai, etc.
After the party is over, most people go to a niji-kai (literally meaning “second gathering”), or post-party party. The niji-kai is more informal than the first party, and not all of the group members always participate. For example, people who want to drink more might choose to go to a bar, whereas those who have had enough but want to enjoy each others’ company might go to karaoke. It is common to have subgroups depending on everyone’s interests. You have to know what you like to do in this situation and not be swayed by the many options. Some people even go to the sanji-kai, or “third gathering”, as well. The group members get smaller and smaller as the night gets later.
More to know about the Japanese party culture
Enkai Ryokou |
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| Tokubei 86 |
Tokubei 86 |
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Celebrating its 31st year on the Upper East Side, Tokubei 86 has been a staple among the local gourmands. Chef Hiroaki Tokunaga is dedicated to his food preparation making his own miso, kimchi as well as nukazuke (Japanese pickles) to satisfy his high standards. Tokubei 86 serves authentic and delectable Japanese food at affordable prices for a fine dining experience, and its cozy atmos-phere is the perfect setting for a holiday party. Attire: Casual Price: $50 & up / person Party Menu: Special party menu includes a large portion of appetizers and main dishes of your choice. They will also create a menu for you according to your budget and likings. Lunch: Lunch menu includes dishes not available for dinner. Parties during the lunch hours are also welcome. 
Mention Chopsticks NY and make a reservation before Nov. 30th for free dessert. Also 30% off on lunch with Chopsticks NY during November. |
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| Tori Shin |
Tori Shin |
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Tori Shin serves over 40 kinds of yakitori skewers with premium organic chicken and vegetables shipped from Japan. Their yakitoris are grilled over charcoal, and the menu is modified to reflect the best seasonal ingredients available. You can always find something new to try every time you visit Tori Shin. Starting mid October they offer Chicken-Nabe Set*, which is ideal for the sophisticated taste. *See below for details. Attire: Casual to Business casual Party Menu: $50/person plan includes yakitori course dinner and drinks. Buffet: Available for 30 to 45 people. Chiken-Nabe Set: ($60/person) Chicken meatballs and charcoal grilled wings are cooked in a hot pot with chicken broth simmered for 8 hours. It also comes with seasonal appetizers, 4 yakitori skewers. Ramen noodles are then served in the nabe broth. Available for parties of 2 to 10.
A free sorbet dessert until the end of November when you mention Chopsticks NY for Chicken-Nabe Set reservations. |
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| Izakaya Riki |
Izakaya Riki |
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Izakaya Riki has been "the" Izakaya – a haven for the local Japanese to unwind and enjoy comfort food over drinks since its opening in 1998. The owner/chef Riki's philosophy is to serve savory dishes at reasonable prices to satisfy a wide range of appetites, and their menu consists of over 200 dishes that were created after much research and tasting. Their extensive menu and private rooms make Riki an ideal setting for any occasion. Attire: Casual Private Room: Tatami room seats up to 21 people. 11 private rooms of varied sizes on the upper level are equipped with karaoke machines and hold anywhere from 4 to 21 people. Party Menu: 2-hour course with selection of food and drinks is $30/ person. 3-hour course is $40/ person. Available to parties of 10 to 40 people. Open Bar: Choose from their selection of beer, sake, shochu and wine with party menu. |
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| Yakiniku Izakaya Riki |
Yakiniku Izakaya Riki |
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Yakiniku Izakaya Riki is a hidden gem that satisfies your craving for authentic Yakiniku, Japanese BBQ. Their specialties include beautifully marbled Wagyu Kalbi (short ribs) and Wagyu Harami (beef skirt steak). Grill them at the table and the aroma alone will make your mouth water. Other standards like sushi, shabu shabu as well as beer and shochu are also available. Yakiniku is a new and exciting choice for your winter party. Attire: Casual Capacity: 50 people Private Room: The first floor party room seats 14 people. Private rooms are also located on the 2nd and 3rd floors and hold 10 to 15 people each. For private room parties, Yakiniku is cooked in the kitchen and served. Party Menu: Chef’s special selection is $40/person (includes drinks). Party menu can be modified to meet your budget and specifications.
Mention Chopsticks NY when reserving a party of over 5 people and get one free pitcher of beer. |
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| Hatsuhana Park |
Hatsuhana Park |
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Hatsuhana Park located in the heart of Midtown has delighted seafood lovers for nearly 3 decades with their finest sushi and sashimi as well as authentic Japanese dishes. Their motto is to never compromise the quality of ingredients, and they are especially popular among Japanese expats for their high quality seafood, rice and various appetizers. The ambiance is casual, and large parties can be accommodated in their semi-private room. Attire: Business casual Capacity: 65 seats Party Menu: $50/person for up to 30 people per party. The menu can be customized according to your budgets and specifications. Semi- private room can seat up to 30 people. |
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| Onigashima |
Onigashima |
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Onigashima is an udon and soba noodle specialty restaurant serving authentic Japanese cuisine since it opened 12 years ago. Their noodles are made from only the best ingredients, and the soup base is boiled twice daily. Aside from their noodles, the dinner menu boasts of a wide variety of dishes- sashimi, roasted duck and homemade tofu are among their most popular. The party room holds up to 40 people and well suited for a large party. Attire: Casual Private Room: The room seats up to 40 people. Party Menu: Customized according to your budgets and specifications. ($40/person & up) Buffet: Available only for private parties. Catering: Open sushi bar with on site sushi chefs available upon request for corporate and special events.
2 complimentary bottles of wine (red and white) when you mention Chopsticks NY for private rooms booked before 12/31/08. |
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| Soba Totto |
Soba Totto |
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Soba Totto is a sister restaurant to Yakitori Totto known for its delicious yakitori. They offer handmade buckwheat soba noodles prepared both for the traditional and the contemporary palate. Their executive chef has extensive experience in both Eastern and Western cuisines and designs the menu to delight their patrons with a variety of soba and yakitori as well as tapas. Enjoy soba this holiday season as the Japanese do for good luck. Attire: Business Casual Capacity: Two rooms for 3 to 4 people, and one room for 4 to 6 people Private Room: For 3 to 8 people Party Menu: Special menu will be created for your budget and specifications. Holiday party menu is also available. Please inquire for more details.
A complimentary appetizer for advanced reservations. |
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| China 1 Antique Lounge |
China 1 Antique Lounge |
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A spectacular menu along with a highly rated decor has made China 1 one of the top choices for birthdays and group parties. Nestled beneath the beautiful decor of antiques straight from China, in the main dining area sits a sizeable lounge space where patrons can relax and enjoy the company of their friends over drinks. China 1 boasts of its exceptional service and versatility - whether it be a romantic dinner for two or live jazz party for 200. Attire: Casual Capacity: 200 people Private Room: Downstairs Lounge (up to 100ppl), Downstairs Bar (50ppl) Party Menu: $20-24/per person for an entrée on the dinner menu. Special menus for private and special events are created by their renowned executive chef upon consultation. Buffet is also available for private parties. Open Bar: Available for parties of 15 or more. Full bar, Top shelf, Beer only plans are available upon request.
$3 Singha Beer ($6 regular price) with dinner when you mention Chopsticks NY. |
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| Sachiko's On Clinton |
Sachiko's On Clinton |
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Sachiko's on Clinton serves a fusion of traditional Edo-style and modern, creative sushi. Their chefs work magic behind the sushi bar giving off a sophisticated energy that adds elegance to the ambiance. Their culinary creativity, techniques and styles with the freshest fish available bring out the best flavors in each ingredient. To accompany their cuisine, they offer exclusive sake like Yusura Ginjo and Kakunkou Daiginjo. Attire: Casual to Business casual Capacity: 50 seats, and the private room seats up to 20 people. (The private room can be divided to hold 2 parties with 10 seats each.) Party Menu: 5-course Omakase-chef's selections ($40/person), 6-course Omakase ($65/person) Limited to parties of up to 20 people at a time. Buffet: $40/person and $50/person (including dessert) are available for
Complimentary Assorted Kushiage (10 skewers) for parties over 10 until December 31st. (Reservation required) |
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| Tokyo Bar |
Tokyo Bar |
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A casual Japanese dining spot in Tribeca, Tokyo Bar offers modern Japanese comfort food. Its pop ambiance created by the walls and ceilings covered with manga paper, instantly makes you feel like you are in Tokyo. Patrons' favorites include Omu-Rice (omelet over tomato rice) and "Napolitan" Spaghetti. Their broad selection of finger foods along with trendy appetizers and creative cocktails are for a savvy palate. Attire: Casual Party Menu: From $30/person for parties of 6 people and up. It includes an appetizer, an entree, a dessert and one drink of your choice. Menu can be customized for your budget. Party reservations available for 2 to 15 people. Catering: Available upon request. Please inquire for more detail.
Mention Chopsticks NY during November for a reservation, and you'll receive 20% off. |
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| Inatome Japanese Steak House & Seafood |
Inatome Japanese Steak House & Seafood |
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Family owned since 1975, Inatome Steak House is considered the best Japanese teppan yaki house on Long Island among local patrons. Their carefully selected seafood and Black Angus beef is cooked right before your eyes on the large grill by skillful chefs. Each performance is unique; this restaurant promises an exciting dining experience for the entire family. Wagyu beef is available for parties of 10 or more with advance arrangement. Attire: Casual Capacity: 100 people Price: Average $22 / person Party Menu: For parties of fewer than 50 people, you may choose dishes from the menu to suit your party theme and size. Reservations are accepted until one day prior. Average price is $30/person. Inquire for a specific menu request. For wagyu beef for dinner or parties, 4-week advanced reservations are required.
Special appetizer is on the house for parties of 6 or more. |
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| Komegashi too Japanese Cuisine |
Komegashi too Japanese Cuisine |
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Located by Newport waterfront, Komegashi too is one of the best Japanese sushi restaurants in Northern New Jersey. Their dining room oversees a spectacular view of the Manhattan skyline, and the menu includes traditional sushi as well as neo-Japanese fusion dishes, featuring new sauce combinations with fresh ingredients and modern presentations. Enjoy neo-Japanese fusion along with their wide selection of sake, shochu and wine! Attire: Casual Capacity: 110 seats. Parties available for up to 80 people. Party Menu: Available upon request. Menu and prices vary depending on your party styles. ($ 35-$100/p) Open Bar: Happy hour or brunch buffet available upon request Buffet: Available upon request Catering: Please call for details
10% discount when you mention Chopsticks NY for reservations for parties of over 20 people. |
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| Karaoke Duet |
Karaoke Duet 35 |
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The cozy atmosphere of Karaoke Duet is an attempt to re-create the true karaoke scene in Japan. They have a variety of private rooms, and their song selection is the largest in New York: 12,000 in English; 55,000 in Japanese; and over 30,000 with other languages. Kids are also welcome, and kids’ songs are available. If you want to experience karaoke the Japanese way, Karaoke Duet is the place to be. Attire: Casual Private Room: 12 private rooms at the 35th Street location and 16 rooms at the 48th Street location; rooms are equipped with large screen TVs and vary in sizes and decor to accommodate any number of groups from 2 to 30 people.
Free bottles of wine for party reservations booked before Dec. 31. Call for more details. |
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| Karaoke Top Tunes |
Karaoke Top Tunes |
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The 80’s disco like decor and flamboyant atmosphere of Top Tunes makes it the place to party. They have a bar with an illuminated stage and 3 rooms that are all available for private parties. Their unique feature is the "singing bartenders" who sing and perform as well as partner up for duets to entertain the crowd. As their motto goes "singing heals the world", sing your heart out while you relish on Japanese snacks! Attire: Casual Private Room: 3 private rooms: (1) 4 to 15 people, (2) 6 to 20 people, (3) 12 to 50 people Price: $20 & up (reg.) Party Menu: Plan A:($45/person/ 3h) Free Karaoke, beer, wine and cocktails. Plan B: ($60/person/3h) Plan A plus party food. (Available only to parties of over 15 people)
Mention Chopsticks NY when making a reservation for a party of over 10 people, and a bottle of Jameson or Jack Daniels is on us! |
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