頂きます

Etymology
The regular formal or polite conjugation of humble verb.

Phrase

 * 1)  to receive
 * 2)  to eat; I will eat, let's eat

Usage notes

 * The "let's eat" sense is used when said before starting a meal. This usage and intent is vaguely similar to the custom among some English speakers to say before a meal, as a recognition of thankfulness for the food.
 * At the end of a meal, Japanese speakers say.