How to Say “Just One Minute” in Japanese at a Restaurant: Polite Phrases & Real Tips

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1. How to Politely Ask “Just One Minute” in Japanese at a Restaurant

When dining in Japan, timing and courtesy are everything. Whether you're scanning the menu or still deciding on your order, knowing how to politely say “Just one minute” in Japanese can be incredibly helpful. The most common and polite phrase you can use is:

「少々お待ちください」(Shōshō omachi kudasai) – literally means "Please wait a moment."

However, when you’re the one asking for a little more time, a better choice would be:

「もう少し時間をください」(Mō sukoshi jikan o kudasai) – which means “Please give me a little more time.”

This is formal yet soft, ideal for use with restaurant staff. If you're in a casual setting or feel overwhelmed, a simpler version would be:

「ちょっと待ってください」(Chotto matte kudasai) – "Please wait a moment." This is slightly more informal but still polite enough for most restaurant settings.

2. Common Phrases and Pronunciations in Real Scenarios

2.1 When deciding what to order

You're handed a beautiful menu, but all the dishes look delicious. Instead of panicking or rushing, calmly say:

「すみません、もう少しだけ時間をください。」
Sumimasen, mō sukoshi dake jikan o kudasai.
Translation: “Excuse me, please give me just a little more time.”

2.2 When the waiter approaches too early

If the waiter comes too soon, and you're still unsure, smile and say:

「あと一分だけお願いします。」
Ato ippun dake onegaishimasu.
Translation: “Just one more minute, please.”

2.3 When with friends or family

If you're discussing the menu together, you might say to your group:

「まだ決まってないから、ちょっと待ってもらえる？」
Mada kimattenai kara, chotto matte moraeru?
Translation: “We haven’t decided yet, can you wait a bit?”

3. Real-Life Situation: How I Used This Phrase in Tokyo

During a recent trip to Tokyo, I visited a traditional izakaya tucked away in Shinjuku. The menu was in kanji, and I needed a moment to decipher the options. A waitress approached, smiling, ready to take my order. I gently said:

「すみません、あと一分お願いします。」
She nodded, smiled back, and responded, 「はい、どうぞごゆっくり。」(Please take your time.)

That moment reminded me how a single phrase, when used respectfully, bridges cultural gaps. It felt empowering and respectful at the same time. Even though I was a foreigner, that short interaction made me feel welcomed and understood.

4. Cultural Nuance and Body Language When You Say It

4.1 The tone of voice matters

Japanese is a language where intonation and humility carry weight. When asking for a minute, say it softly and with a smile. A flat or harsh tone might come across as rude even if the words are correct.

4.2 Using gestures respectfully

Combine your words with a gentle hand gesture (such as raising one finger or bowing slightly). This shows you’re being mindful and polite — two qualities deeply valued in Japanese service culture.

4.3 When not to use “chotto matte”

While 「ちょっと待って」 is popular in anime and daily life, it can sound a bit abrupt in formal settings like restaurants. Always use the full polite form 「ちょっと待ってください」 when speaking with staff.

5. How Japanese Restaurant Can Help You Master These Phrases

Feeling anxious about using Japanese while dining out? At Japanese Restaurant, we not only provide authentic dishes, but also cultural guides and language support to make your dining experience smoother and more enjoyable.

Whether you’re visiting Japan or just love Japanese cuisine, our team helps you get comfortable with useful phrases like 「あと一分だけお願いします」. We curate not just menus, but memorable cultural exchanges. Check out Japanese Restaurant to explore local guides, hand-picked eateries, and language tips tailored for travelers and language learners alike.