How to Say ‘Looks delicious’ in Japanese
美味しそう
oishi sou
[oh-ee-shee soh]
💬 Usage Tip: [〜そう] means “looks/seems.” So [美味しそう] = “looks tasty” (even before you eat). Casual and perfect for food pics on a date.
🇯🇵 In Japan: In Japan it’s common to react to the presentation first—saying [美味しそう] is a friendly, low-pressure compliment and keeps the vibe positive.
Phrase Breakdown
美味し
oishi
[oh-ee-shee]
delicious (stem of 美味しい)
Adjective stem meaning “delicious/tasty.” It commonly combines with そう to say something looks tasty (美味しそう).
そのケーキ、美味しそう。
That cake looks delicious.
そう
sou
[soh]
seems; looks (like)
Auxiliary pattern meaning “it seems/looks like…” Used after adjective stems (e.g., 美味しそう = “looks delicious”).
このパスタ、辛そう。美味しそうだけどね。
This pasta looks spicy. It looks delicious though.
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