Tab (Tsuke)

Tsuke is a deferred payment system widely used in Japanese nightlife, particularly in table-service venues such as snack bars and hostess clubs. Instead of paying each time you order, the bill is recorded as a "tab" and settled later in a lump sum.

This system is built on trust between the customer and the establishment. It is typically reserved for regulars; first-time visitors are usually expected to pay in cash after each visit, called "tsuido-barai" (pay-as-you-go).

The settlement timing varies by venue, but common practices include monthly billing (e.g., end-of-month statement, payment the following month) or incremental payments each time you visit. Because tabs can accumulate significantly, venues carefully manage credit limits.

Etiquette for using tsuke includes always paying on time and keeping track of your running total. It is considered good manners to settle your tab regularly and not let it grow excessively.

Tsuke is a hallmark of the trust-based culture of Japan's nightlife. It offers the convenience of enjoying the evening without carrying cash, but it also requires discipline to avoid overspending.