Have you ever considered visiting a sushi restaurant but felt slightly nervous? Maybe you’re worried about how to order, what to eat, or if you’ll like it.
Don’t worry! Visiting a sushi restaurant for the first time can be a fun and exciting experience. Here are some simple things to know before you go, so you can confidently enjoy your first sushi meal.
1. What Is Sushi?
First, let’s understand what sushi is. Many people think sushi always means raw fish, but that’s not true! Sushi means “vinegared rice” in Japanese.
The rice is mixed with a little vinegar, sugar, and salt. Then, it’s combined with different toppings or fillings, like fish, vegetables, or even eggs.
Some sushi contains raw fish (this is called sashimi), but many types are cooked or use only vegetables.
2. Different Types Of Sushi
There are a few main types of sushi Phoenix you might see on the menu:
- Nigiri: A small rice ball with a fish slice or another topping.
- Maki: Rice, fish, and vegetables rolled in seaweed (nori) and sliced into pieces.
- Sashimi: Just slices of raw fish without rice.
- Temaki: A cone-shaped seaweed filled with rice, fish, and vegetables.
- Uramaki: A special roll with rice on the outside and seaweed inside.
If you’re nervous about raw fish, you can start with veggie rolls, cooked shrimp rolls, or tamago (sweet egg) nigiri.
3. How To Order?
When you sit at the restaurant, you’ll usually get a menu or picture menu showing different sushi options.
Some places have a sushi bar where you can sit and order directly from the sushi chef (called itamae). Here are some tips for ordering:
- Don’t be afraid to ask the waiter for recommendations.
- If you want to try a little of everything, look for a “sushi combo” on the menu.
- Tell the staff if you are new. They are usually very happy to help first-timers!
4. Using Chopsticks (Or Not!)
Chopsticks are traditional in Sushi in Phoenix restaurants, but it’s completely okay if you’re not good at using them. You can also eat sushi with your hands, especially nigiri and maki rolls.
Just make sure your hands are clean! If you want to use chopsticks, practice at home a little before you go. Most sushi places also have forks available if you need one.
5. Important Table Manners
Japanese culture values good manners, especially at the table. Here are a few tips:
- Don’t rub chopsticks together. This can be seen as rude, like saying the chopsticks are cheap.
- Don’t stick chopsticks upright in your rice. This looks like a funeral offering in Japan.
- Eat sushi in one bite if you can. Sushi pieces are usually made small enough for one bite.
- Be polite and say “thank you” to the staff and the chef if you’re sitting at the sushi bar.
6. How To Use Soy Sauce, Wasabi, And Ginger
When you get your sushi, you’ll usually have a few extras:
- Soy Sauce: Dip the fish (not the rice) lightly into the soy sauce. Rice can soak up too much soy sauce and fall apart.
- Wasabi: A green paste that is very spicy. Some sushi already has a little wasabi inside. If you want more, add a tiny bit.
- Pickled Ginger (Gari): Eat a piece between different types of sushi. It helps to clean your taste buds so you can fully enjoy the next piece.
Be gentle with wasabi – a little goes a long way!
7. What If You Don’t Like Raw Fish?
That’s perfectly okay! There are lots of sushi options without raw fish. You can try:
- California Roll (with cooked crab stick)
- Shrimp Tempura Roll (fried shrimp inside)
- Vegetable Rolls (like cucumber roll or avocado roll)
- Chicken Teriyaki Roll (in some fusion sushi restaurants)
You don’t have to eat raw fish to enjoy sushi.
8. What To Drink With Sushi
Green tea is a traditional beverage commonly served alongside sushi. It’s warm and helps clean your mouth between bites.
You can also order water, soda, or sometimes Japanese beer. Some places also serve sake, a traditional Japanese rice wine.
9. Enjoy The Experience
Going to a sushi restaurant is not just about the food – it’s about the experience.
Take time, try new things, and enjoy the peaceful and friendly atmosphere. Even if you don’t love everything you try, you might discover a new favorite food!
Final Tips
If you’re visiting a sushi restaurant for the first time, start with cooked or veggie rolls if you’re unsure about raw fish. There’s no need to worry about perfecting everything—just be polite and relaxed and enjoy the experience.
The staff is there to help guide you, so don’t hesitate to ask questions if you’re unfamiliar with certain dishes or sushi terms.
Understanding different types of sushi—like nigiri, sashimi, or maki—can also enhance your experience, but if you’re unsure, feel free to ask for recommendations.
Most importantly, take your time, savor each bite, and don’t rush—sushi is an art that’s meant to be enjoyed at your own pace.
At Omoide Sushi & Noodle, we pride ourselves on providing a welcoming atmosphere and a wide range of sushi options to suit every palate.
Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned sushi lover, we’re here to make your dining experience as enjoyable and delicious as possible. Come visit us today and discover the flavors of authenticity in every bite!
