Why do Japanese restaurants give wet towels before a meal? If you visit Japan, you may notice that a small wet towel appears on your table shortly after you sit down. This towel, called an oshibori, is not simply for cleaning your hands — it is part of a broader hospitality system designed to create comfort before the meal even begins. In Japanese restaurant culture, good service often means anticipating needs before they are expressed. The oshibori reflects this philosophy through a small but meaningful gesture that quietly helps customers relax, refresh themselves, and settle into the dining ...
