The “Otoshi” Surprise: Why Is There a Mystery Charge on My Bill?

You enjoyed a fantastic meal at a Japanese Izakaya (pub), but when you get the bill, you notice a charge of 300 to 500 yen per person that you didn’t order. Before you complain to the staff about a mistake, stop! This is likely the “Otoshi” (or Tsukidashi), a unique Japanese custom similar to a table charge or cover charge.