Important reason Wagamama staff write on the menu when taking your order

We've all been at a restaurant when the waiter or waitress comes over to take our order before sending it back to the kitchen.

Well, it is done a little differently at Wagamama. But there's a very specific reason for why it is done in their own unique way.

Instead of simply writing it down on their paper pad or electronic device that'll automatically tell chefs what needs to be cooked, Wagamama does things a little differently.

Opened back in 1991 as China Diner Limited, Wagamama has almost 200 locations across the United Kingdom, serving Japanese cuisine to thousands of people every single day.

And with restaurants open right across the world, from Italy and the United Arab Emirates to Bulgaria and Sweden, it has firmly established itself as one of the constant presences on global high streets.

When it comes to ordering food at Wagamama, and when you decide you're going to go with the chicken katsu curry - because let's face it, it is the go-to when you can't decide what new dish to try - things are done in their own way.

Ever since the restaurants first opened, staff have written on the menu or placemats given to customers when they sit at their table.

It's something that's even become a TikTok meme, with one video viewed millions of times with the caption: "WHAT ARE THEY WRITING?"

And with a comment section full of people wishing they knew, LADbible decided to ask the Wagamama itself why it makes its staff do this.

The reason? Well, it's two-fold. One part of it is to do with history and authenticity of the food being produced.

The other is to make sure you don't get hurt.

A Wagamama spokesperson told LADbible: "Writing on placemats has been part of our brand DNA from the start. Inspired by fast-paced ramen bars, it allows our servers to know exactly what our guests order on the bench.

"It goes hand in hand with our food coming out as soon as it’s ready, and at its freshest.

"It brings pace and personalisation to create the unique Wagamama experience."

They added that it has evolved to be much more than this, with it now carrying important health reasons as well as the above.

"Over the years, it’s evolved, and now also helps us with identifying allergies and dietary requirements," they explained.

"While we recognise it’s not what you find everywhere, it will always be a key part of the way we operate."

Given that allergies have the potential to kill people depending on what they're allergic to and how bad a reaction they have, we can't knock this at all. It's a unique way to run things and a surefire way to stand out in a very crowded foodie market.