All About Sushi

Eating Etiquette

Understanding sushi etiquette is essential for appreciating this culinary art form. Gary Arndt explains that both hands and chopsticks are acceptable for eating sushi, with hands often used for nigiri and maki, while chopsticks are preferred for sashimi 1. He emphasizes that sushi pieces should be eaten whole to respect the chef's design. Upon entering a sushi restaurant, chefs typically greet patrons with "ira shai masei," to which a polite response is "ojama shimasu," meaning "I'm sorry for disturbing you" 1.

A piece of nigiri or any piece of a roll that is cut is designed to be put in your mouth whole, so eating just half a piece of it in one bite would be considered bad etiquette.

--- Gary Arndt

Additionally, Arndt advises against making sushi from freshwater fish due to bacterial concerns, highlighting the importance of using saltwater fish for safety 1.

   

Restaurant Experiences

The sushi dining experience offers unique opportunities to engage with the culinary tradition. Gary Arndt suggests sitting at the bar in sushi restaurants to interact with chefs and potentially order omakase, where the chef chooses the dishes 2. Identifying high-quality sushi restaurants involves looking for specialties like ama ebi, ankimo, and tobiko with quail eggs, which indicate a superior dining experience 2.

If you find the sushi chef to be good, you can order a dish omakase, which means entrust in Japanese.

--- Gary Arndt

Arndt also recommends visiting the Toyosu fish market in Tokyo for an unparalleled experience of freshness and tradition, especially during the New Year's tuna auction 2.