Sushi Culture

Sushi is one of the most popular and widely recognized Japanese dishes. However, traditional restaurant culture and norms may differ significantly from the standard set by society.
In the land of the rising sun, sushi making Tokyo is not just a simple dish but a complex ceremony that requires respect, self-control, and attention to detail.

When visiting a Japanese eatery in Japan, it is customary to remove your shoes before entering the main dining area. Restaurants usually have a different area for removing shoes, which may have slippers or other footwear alternatives for guests to change into. This practice is rooted in the concept of "genbakutei" or the importance of cleanliness.

Upon sitting down at the sushi bar or at the table, guests are expected to make a slight gesture and hostess. This is a show of respect and appreciation for the meal they are about to receive. In some cases, guests may also be given clean wiped to wipe their faces before and after the meal.

Ordering at a sushi restaurant in Asia is a relatively easy process. Guests are usually presented with a options, usually with the prices listed and they may choose from a variety of menu items such as the chef's selection, sushi courses, or a la carte items. It is a common habits for guests to wait for the sushi chef to serve them, usually with a new piece of sushi every 30 seconds to 1 minute, depending on the complexity of the dish.

When receiving a piece of sushi, guests are expected to hold it by the edges, gently wrap their chopsticks over the fish, and take a small bite. Chewing with the eyes closed and making gentle "mm sounds/approval noises" while enjoying the cuisine is also considered mannerly. Additionally, guests are expected to follow the traditional method starting from the left from the earliest piece served.

drink options, including alcohol and Japanese whiskey, are also an integral part of the sushi dining experience. Guests are expected to order drinks and follow the serving order usually in the same sequence as the dish. Polite sipping and finishing the drink slowly is considered excellent etiquette.

One of the most distinctive aspects of sushi etiquette is the art of leaving the table setting. When the dinner is complete, guests are expected to let the host or the chef know that they have finished by pushing their empty plates away from them and gently nodding. Saying "traditional Japanese phrases" or "arigatou gozaimasu" as a polite way to thank the host or the staff is also traditional, as it recognizes their hospitality and hard work.

In summary, dining at a eatery in a foreign land is a unique and captivating experience that requires a willingness to follow local customs and culture. By practicing sushi etiquette, guests can enjoy a meal in an atmosphere of appreciation and bonding with the staff and fellow diners.