How to Eat Sushi Like a Pro: Etiquette and Tips
At Maguro Bar, we believe sushi should be enjoyed to its fullest, even as a takeaway experience. Here are some easy tips and etiquette to help you appreciate each piece like a sushi aficionado, from soy sauce use to the best order to eat your selection.
1. Start with Lighter Flavors
When enjoying a variety of sushi, it’s best to start with lighter, more delicate flavors like white fish or shrimp before moving to richer options such as tuna, salmon, or eel. This enhances your experience, allowing each bite to shine.
2. How to Handle Sushi? with Chopsticks or Hands?
For sashimi, chopsticks are ideal, but when it comes to nigiri (fish on rice) or maki rolls, you can use your hands if that’s more comfortable. This is especially convenient with takeaway sushi. If you’re using chopsticks, hold your sushi gently to prevent squeezing the rice apart. You can even practice handling chopsticks beforehand to get comfortable!
3. Dipping in Soy Sauce (Less Is More!)
When dipping sushi into soy sauce, keep these tips in mind:
- Nigiri: Turn the nigiri on its side and dip only the fish part lightly into the soy sauce, avoiding the rice. This prevents the rice from soaking up too much soy sauce and falling apart.
- Sashimi: For sashimi, dip each piece gently into the soy sauce without touching the wasabi, as the chef has likely already added the perfect amount.
4. Using Wasabi and Ginger
A dab of wasabi can enhance the flavor, and at Maguro Bar, our chefs carefully apply just the right amount between the rice and sashimi. Extra wasabi is included in the pack for those who love an extra kick. The pickled ginger provided with your sushi is meant to refresh your palate between different flavors—enjoy a small piece after each type for the best experience.
5. One-Bite Rule
In Japan, sushi is traditionally crafted to be eaten in one bite, allowing you to enjoy the flavors as intended. Try to eat each piece whole if possible; this way, you’ll fully appreciate the balance of the fish and rice.
6. End with a Calming Sip of Tea
Ending a sushi meal with green tea is a Japanese tradition that refreshes the palate and brings closure to the meal. Although you may be on the go with your sushi, enjoying a cup of green tea afterward (hot or iced) completes the experience. You can order one from our store.
Quick Sushi Etiquette Recap for Takeaway Sushi
- Start with lighter flavors, then progress to richer options.
- Use chopsticks for sashimi, hands are okay for nigiri or rolls.
- Dip the fish side, not the rice, in soy sauce.
- Use wasabi sparingly and ginger between bites.
- Aim to eat each piece in one bite.
With these tips, Maguro Bar’s sushi can be enjoyed just like it would be in a traditional sushi bar! So savor each piece and enjoy the art and flavors of authentic Japanese sushi on the go.
