SUSHI 101 SERIES

BEGINNER’S GUIDE TO SUSHI

Ordering sushi for the first time? Start here!

If you’ve never ordered sushi before, you're not alone—and you’re in the right place. Whether you’re feeling curious, a little unsure, or excited to try something new, we created this guide to help you feel comfortable from the moment you sit down.

There’s no right or wrong way to begin—just a few helpful starting points.

WHAT IS SUSHI?

It’s a common misunderstanding: sushi doesn’t mean raw fish. It actually refers to SEASONED RICE, often paired with seafood, vegetables, or egg. Some of it’s raw. A lot of it isn’t. And all of it is prepared with care.

WHAT SHOULD YOU ORDER FIRST?

CALIFORNIA ROLL
Avocado, imitation crab, cucumber. Soft, crisp, and comforting.

SPICY TUNA OR SPICY SALMON ROLL
Chopped fish with a hint of heat. Flavorful and smooth.

SAKE NIGIRI (SALMON)
A slice of fresh salmon on rice. Buttery and clean, it’s one of the most approachable nigiri.

TAMAGO NIGIRI (SWEET OMELET)
Lightly sweet and savory. A soft, layered omelet on rice.

EBI NIGIRI (COOKED SHRIMP)
A fully cooked option with a gentle, familiar texture.

MISO SOUP or EDAMAME on the side makes for a simple, satisfying first order.

California Roll

Spicy Tuna Roll

Sake Nigiri

Tamago Nigiri

Edamame

Miso Soup

Ebi Nirgiri

A SUGGESTED FIRST ORDER

If you want a simple, balanced experience, try this combination:

  • CALIFORNIA ROLL

  • SPICY TUNA ROLL

  • 2PCS SALMON NIGIRI

  • 1PC TAMAGO NIGIRI

  • MISO SOUP

It’s a thoughtful mix of cooked and raw, familiar and new.

HELPFUL TIPS FOR YOUR FIRST VISIT

IT’S OKAY TO USE YOUR HANDS.
Sushi is traditionally eaten by hand—you don’t need chopstick skills to enjoy it.

SOY SAUCE? USE JUST A LITTLE.
A quick dip is enough to bring out flavor without overpowering it.

GINGER IS FOR CLEANSING YOUR PALATE.
It’s meant to refresh your taste buds between bites—not go on top.

YOU DON’T HAVE TO KNOW EVERYTHING.
If you’re unsure, ask. We’re happy to guide you.

CONTINUE THE JOURNEY

Whether you’re brand new to sushi or just looking to understand the menu a little better, the best way to learn is to try. Ask questions. Start simple. Taste widely. At Misaki, we believe sushi should be approachable, never intimidating—and we’re always happy to guide you. You don’t need to be an expert to enjoy it. You just need to be open.