How to say "gourmet" in Japanese

• グルメCommon
  nounCovers the senses 'gourmet', 'epicure', and 'gastronome': a person who appreciates fine food. The katakana loanword has a light, stylish feel and is at home in restaurant guides and conversation about eating out.
• 食通しょくつうCommon
  nounAlso renders 'gourmet', with the nuance of a connoisseur: a person well versed in food and discerning about what they eat. Typical when introducing someone as a trusted authority on food and restaurants.

Both translate 'gourmet' for a person who loves good food: 「グルメ」 is the katakana loanword with a light, stylish feel, while 食通 stresses connoisseurship — a discerning, knowledgeable eater.

Usage comparisons are AI-assisted and cross-checked by multiple models; for study reference only

• 料理通りょうりつうgourmet
• 美食家びしょくかepicure
• グルメgourmet
• 食通しょくつうgourmet