The Japanese Way of Eating and Enjoying Sushi

If you're visiting Japan, chances are you'll encounter a popular dish made out of rolls of rice with seafood called 'sushi.' These delicacy has its roots in traditional Japanese culture and should be savored in a proper manner. The following are some tips on how to eat and enjoy sushi the Japanese way.

Upon entering a 'sushi-ya' or the establishment where sushi is served, you will be welcomed by the greeting 'irasshai' or the more formal 'irrashaimase' which literally means 'please, come in.'

For an enjoyable sight, try to sit at the sushi counter where you can see the 'itamae' (or cook) prepare sushi.

Once seated, you will be given a rolled wet towel or an 'oshibori' which you can use to sanitize your hands. To accommodate proper temperature, the towels are heated during the winter and chilled during summer. Once you're done using the towel, roll it again and place it beside your plate in case you will be needing it later on.

Once you received your order, prepare your dipping sauce by pouring just enough sauce as using too much is seen as an insult to the chef.

Sushi is eaten by using chopsticks or using your fingers. If you opt to use your fingers, make sure to wipe your hands with the oshibori before picking another sushi.

When dipping sushi to the sauce, make sure the fish side is down. In line with that, do make certain that you bite the sushi in such a way that the portion where the fish is meets your tongue. It is also important to eat the sushi in one bite as the cook carefully designed it to be consumed so.

Sushi is usually ordered as the main course but it can also be eaten as the meal after the main course and before dessert. It is extremely rude to have leftovers so make sure to order enough amount so that you that you will be able to finish everything.

In some cases, sushi bars will not offer a menu but will present a 'today's best' meal which is called 'omakase' or Chef's choice.

If you are short on budget, make sure to let the cook know how much you're willing to pay before you place your order.