Introduction to Sushi

So, you'd like to know more about sushi. You have friends who like sushi -- some even claim that raw fish is delicious -- but you've never given it a try. Or maybe you've sampled sushi a couple of times but were not very impressed. A number of people have enjoyed a few trips to sushi bars but never ventured into eating raw fish, partly because they couldn't figure out just what to order. Or maybe you are a regular sushi-goer but feel that you're stuck eating the same dishes every time, and you know there is a lot more to discover. Or perhaps you're pretty much of a sushi veteran, just looking for that "something extra".

For any and all of you, here is my personal 'low-down' on what is available in sushi bars -- I now list about 200 items! -- what's in it, how to order it, and how to participate in the customs of enjoying sushi! Yes, I have eaten everything I've listed here; I didn't just copy it from someone else's book. (And, nope, there is nothing in here about making sushi at home!)

There is also a sushi glossary of terms and mini-phrasebook of sushi. Even you old-hand sushi aficionados will find plenty of interesting new stuff in here to enhance your sushi experience, and maybe even entertain you. And since I include a number of notes on customs and ordering in Japanese sushi bars -- not to mention all the names in Japanese -- even those of you living in Japan will find something useful to add interest to your sushi outings. For you new-comers to sushi, check out my "First Time" section, towards the end, for practical advice on your first forays into a serious sushi bar.

Yes, sushi is starting to show up in some mainstream locations in the U.S., like your local supermarket and at food fairs. A growing number of Asian fast-food eateries have appeared, many of which have some sushi on the menu. Most of this sushi is pre-prepared rolls of rice and seaweed with various vegetables and maybe some prepared fish inside. But this is only one kind of sushi, and it barely hints at the variety, quality, and exotic nature of what awaits you at a real Japanese sushi bar.

A good sushi bar is rich with Japanese traditions and atmosphere. And a cozy little sushi bar with a familiar staff and regular customers can become as special a place for you as your favorite coffee house, diner, bistro, or tavern. It just comes from the other side of the world, and is full of flavors, smells, and customs that you aren't so used to.

You can enjoy a good sushi bar without knowing anything about Japan, but you will get even more from the sushi experience if you learn a bit about its traditions. And it helps to know something about the dozens of varieties of food available to really appreciate all that a sushi bar has to offer. There are (hopefully!) a lot of good things that are not even on the menu! Get to know the food, the customs, and a few friendly sushi chefs, and you just might get 'hooked'.(randy johnson - ease)

See also : soto, steak