Demae (Sushi Delivery / 出前): What it is and how to order sushi delivery in Japan
Demae means sushi delivery, a traditional way to order sushi in Japan and enjoy it with your company at your hotel or accommodation. Many travelers know sushi bars, but fewer know about demae, how it works, what to order, and the basic etiquette. This article explains sushi delivery in Japan in a clear and simple way, from ordering tips to popular menu items, giving you another relaxed and enjoyable option for experiencing Japanese sushi.
What Is Sushi Demae (Delivery) in Japan?
Demae means food delivery in Japan and is a general term for delivering a variety of dishes, including ramen, udon, donburi rice bowls, and sushi. While takeout is more common, many sushi establishments participate in delivery services. Conveyor-belt sushi chains and casual restaurants are more likely to be available for demae, whereas direct delivery from high-end, chef-run sushi bars is less common and may require advance arrangement.
How to Order Sushi Delivery (Demae) in Japan
When ordering sushi for delivery, you can call the restaurant, order online, or use app-based delivery services. For example, a publicist from a major conveyor-belt sushi chain noted that the restaurant offers delivery in collaboration with other delivery platforms. Traditionally, you can also place an order by phone if the restaurant accepts it. Your sushi order can often be delivered to the location of your choice.
Popular Sushi Delivery Menus at Japanese Sushi Restaurants
While no specific surveys track the most popular sushi delivery menus, a survey of popular sushi toppings at conveyor-belt sushi restaurants indicates that salmon, tuna (red lean flesh), and yellowtail are among the favorites. This suggests that these toppings may also be popular choices for delivery.
Sushi Delivery (Demae) FAQs
What Is the Difference Between Sushi Delivery (Demae) and Takeout (Mochikaeri)?
While demae, or sushi delivery, allows diners to have sushi sent from the restaurant to a location of their choice, mochikaeri, or takeout, involves ordering sushi at the restaurant and bringing it home yourself.
Do Sushi Restaurants Offer Both Delivery and Takeout?
Whether a restaurant offers delivery, takeout, or both depends on the individual establishment. Some restaurants provide both options, while others offer only one. Some restaurants do not offer either service.
What Is the Proper Etiquette When Ordering Sushi Delivery?
In demae, or sushi delivery, there are generally no strict etiquette rules. However, if sushi is delivered in a non-disposable container, it is considered polite to remove any leftovers and lightly rinse the container. After eating, you can place the container in front of your door or hang it in a plastic bag for the restaurant staff to collect.
Demae (Sushi Delivery): A Convenient Way to Enjoy Sushi
Demae, or sushi delivery, is a convenient way to enjoy sushi without the effort of going out or picking it up. While it tends to be more expensive than takeout, the convenience it offers is unmatched. Available for solo diners or larger groups, demae is a great option to try during your stay in Japan.
For those looking for delicious demae sushi nearby, click this Sushi Near Me map.
Photo courtesy of Toyama Tourism Organization
Research Sources
Kodansha International. The Kodansha Bilingual Encyclopedia of Japan. Kodansha, Tokyo, Japan.
Kawahara, Kazuhisa. Yomu Sushi Oishii Hanashi: 108 Neta. Bungeishunju, Tokyo, Japan.
Iwanami Shoten. Kōjien Dictionary. Iwanami Shoten, Tokyo, Japan.
Heibonsha. The World Encyclopedia, Revised Edition. Heibonsha, Tokyo, Japan.
Japan Tourism Agency. Sushi: JTA Sightseeing Database. Japan Tourism Agency, Tokyo, Japan.
Tatsumi, Yoshiyuki, and Tsuchida, Mitose. Why Sushi in Toyama Is So Delicious. Hokkoku Shimbunsha, Toyama, Japan.
Research on demae (sushi delivery) (Survey of Demae‑can users) – Research‑Research
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