A beginner’s guide to ordering sushi

Know a few terms and the menu opens up. Nigiri is a slice of fish pressed onto a small mound of rice.

Learn the main styles

Nigiri is a slice of fish pressed onto a small mound of rice. Sashimi is the fish alone, without rice. Maki are rolls wrapped in seaweed, and temaki are hand rolls shaped like a cone.

Knowing these four words covers most of what you will see on a menu.

Start mild, then explore

Begin with familiar flavors such as salmon, cooked shrimp, or a cucumber roll. Move on to richer fish like tuna belly or yellowtail once you know what you enjoy.

If you are unsure, ask what is freshest today. Most chefs are happy to point you to their best fish.

Go easy on the extras

A light touch of soy sauce, fish side down, lets the flavor of the fish lead. Pickled ginger is meant to refresh your palate between pieces, not to be eaten on top.

Wasabi is often already placed under the fish, so taste before adding more.