I've heard that in Japanese resturants*, following tradition, when you're served soup you should just drink it from the bowl, even if a spoon is present. I've also heard if a spoon is provided you should just go ahead and use it. Which side should I listen to? Which option would be the most polite?
*By 'Japanese Resturants' I am referring to traditional Japanese-style resturants in America. At the moment, I have no oppertunity to visit Japan.
