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Waiter in a Sushi Restaurant

How to set the Table in a Sushi Restaurant?


Welcome to our practical guide for waiters and waitresses working in a sushi restaurant. As a waiter or waitress, you play a vital role in creating an enjoyable experience for the customers. Setting the table and cutlery appropriately is a crucial aspect of your service. In this article, we will guide you step by step on how to professionally set the table and cutlery in a sushi restaurant.

Basics of table setup in a sushi restaurant

Before welcoming the customers, make sure you have all the necessary items within reach. This includes clean placemats, sushi plates, chopsticks, soup spoons, chopstick holders, and napkins. Also, ensure that you have an ample supply of soy sauce, wasabi, and pickled ginger in small containers placed on each table.

Table setting

Start by placing a clean placemat in the center of each table. This provides a clean and appealing base for the upcoming meal. Next, place a sushi plate in the center of each placemat. Traditional sushi plates are often made of ceramic or porcelain, but be sure to use the ones provided by your establishment.

Arranging the cutlery and chopsticks

Cutlery is usually simple. Place a pair of chopsticks on the sushi plate, parallel to the edge of the plate closest to the customer. Ensure that the chopsticks are neatly aligned and clean. Next to the chopsticks, place a small soup spoon for dishes that require spoonfuls, such as miso soup.

Adding chopstick holders and napkins

For a neat presentation, place a chopstick holder next to the sushi plate. Chopstick holders are typically made of ceramic or wood. They help keep the chopsticks clean and prevent them from touching the table. Additionally, provide a cloth or paper napkin next to the cutlery for customers to wipe their hands.

Preparing sauces and condiments

Each table should be equipped with small containers for soy sauce, wasabi, and pickled ginger. Ensure that they are filled before the customers’ arrival and place them next to the sushi plate. Use soy sauce bottles with pour spouts to facilitate easy pouring.



Setting the table and cutlery in a sushi restaurant is an important element of customer service. As a waiter or waitress, by following these simple steps, you will create a welcoming and professional ambiance for your customers. Remember, cleanliness and organization are key to providing a pleasant dining experience. Use this opportunity to showcase your attention to detail and commitment to superior service.

As a waiter or waitress, your role is to make every customer feel welcomed and appreciated. With a well-set table and appropriate cutlery, you contribute to creating a memorable experience for sushi enthusiasts visiting your restaurant.

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