Having just returned from our trip, I wanted to share a few phrases we used. If these are incorrect or you have better suggestions, please comment.
Table for two:
Usually as soon as you enter a restaurant the staff will ask you and put up two fingers to indicate a table for two but if you want to learn the words for “a table for two” they are: “futari (two people) no taburu (a table) onegai shimas (please)”
To get the server’s attention to order or ask for the bill say: “Sumimasen (excuse me)”
When ordering:
“Sumimasen (excuse me) Kore (I would like to order this – point at the menu item you want), Kore To (I would also like to order this second item), Kore To (and this, etc.) Kudesai (thank you)”
For the bill:
“Sumimasen (excuse me) O Kai Kei (the bill) Onegaishimas (please)”
To say thank you:
“Arigato Gozaimas”
At a sushi restaurant, to ask for the chef’s recommendation, the word is: “Omakase”
If the meal was delicious and you want to complement the chef say:
“Oishī shokuji o arigatō”
Kudasai and Onegashimas both mean “Please” but Kudasai is used to order something and Onegaishimas is more for asking for a service.
by SnooLentils1438