Sushi is one of the most popular and widely recognized dishes throughout the world, widely appreciated by people from different cultures. However, traditional restaurant culture and standards may differ significantly from the norm in many parts of the world. In Japan, sushi is not just a simple meal but a complex ritual that requires respect, self-control, and attention to detail.
When visiting a sushi restaurant in Japan, it is customary to remove your footwear 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 some other value.
Upon sitting down at the counter or at the table setting, guests are expected to make a slight gesture and greet. This is a show of respect and appreciation for the cuisine 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 eatery in Asia is a relatively straightforward process. Guests are usually presented with a menu, usually with the ingredients displayed and they may choose from a variety of menu items such as omakase, sushi courses, or buffet-style meals. It is a common habits for guests to wait for the chef to serve them, usually with a new piece of rice every 30 seconds to 1 minute, depending on the originality of the ingredients.
When receiving a piece of sushi, guests are expected to hold it by the edges, gently wrap their Utensils over the protein, and take a small morsel. Chewing with the mouth closed and making gentle "mm sounds/approval noises" while enjoying the cuisine is also considered polite. Additionally, guests are expected to follow the traditional method starting from the left from the earliest piece served.
Beverages, including alcohol and whiskey, are also an integral part of the enjoyment. 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 good manners.
One of the most distinctive aspects of rules is the art of leaving the table. 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 bowing. Saying "traditional Japanese phrases" or "appreciation words" as a way to show appreciation to thank the host or the chef is also traditional, as it acknowledges their hospitality and hard work.
In conclusion, dining at a sushi restaurant in a foreign land is a unique and captivating experience that requires a willingness to follow cultural practices and culture. By practicing sushi etiquette, guests can enjoy a dinner in an atmosphere of respect and connection with the sushi making Tokyo chef and fellow diners.