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Etiquette

In America dining out is a common place event. An individual will be seated and waited on. This cultural normality is different when eating sushi. An individual can sit at a "sushi bar" and interact with the chef throughout the course of their meal. This experience is enjoyable entertainment and allows for something different.

While dining at a sushi restaurant, it is acceptable to inquire about the chef's personal sushi preferences. The chef will tell you what is fresh and most enjoyable at that time. You can also ask the chef to create an original sushi or you can explain to the chef what your favorite ingredients are. This will allow for a unique experience and remember, "The chef is yours." Next time you can be proud to show the special sushi to your friends, or it may even be on the menu with your name!
Besides being an excellent cook, sushi chefs offer good service to their customers. As long as you don't bother him while cooking, the chef is always kind enough to answer your questions and eager to satisfy you. Once you experience such a seductive atmosphere of the counter, you can't stop visiting the sushi bar again and again.

There are different opinions on proper sushi bar manners however these are a few tips that will help you:

1. Using Ohashi (chopsticks) is a matter of personal preference, although a Sushi Tsu (expert) will use his or her fingers.
2. If you do not want to use hand, use chopsticks. But do not spear your food. This is considered improper.
3. Mix your shoyu (soy sauce) dip with wasabi (horseradish) as you please - just add whatever amount appeals to your taste buds. Use little soy sauce when eating your sushi/sashimi. Do not over dip so that the soy sauce over powers the taste of the fish.
4. Dip the fish side! Do not dip with the rice side first. The rice will soak up the soy sauce and cause the sticky rice to fall apart. Not only is this considered bad manners but it can also get really messy!
5. Eat the ginger in between different kinds of sushi. The ginger will refresh your taste buds for the next sensation. It is tempting to eat the ginger and sushi together but this is also considered improper. But if you decide to do it, do not use too much. You'll miss out on the real fish flavor.
6. Eat your sushi with one bite. It is the proper way to eat with one bite. But if you cannot, pick up the piece and take bites out of it. Do not ask for a knife and cut the sushi.

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