Sushi can feel a bit daunting if you’ve never tried it before, but fret not, we’re here to help you!
Whether you’re eating out or getting takeout, this guide will make it super easy for you to navigate the menu and pick the perfect sushi to enjoy. If you’re looking for a great spot to dive into sushi for the first time, Pika Sushi is just the place to make your experience both easy and delightful!
Key Sushi Terms to Know
Before we dive into the menu, let’s take a moment to explore some of the most popular types of sushi. This way, you’ll be well-prepared and know exactly what to expect when you indulge in this delicious experience!
Maki Rolls
Maki is what most people think of when they hear “sushi.” These are rolls made with sushi rice, fish or vegetables, and wrapped in seaweed (nori). Popular options include:
- California Crab Roll (crab, avocado, cucumber)
- Spicy Tuna Roll (tuna with a kick of spice)
- Smoked Salmon Cucumber Roll (smoked salmon, mayonnaise, cucumber)
Nigiri
Nigiri Nigiri is a small mound of rice topped with a slice of fresh fish. It’s simple, elegant, and highlights the quality of the fish. Common choices include:
- Salmon Nigiri
- Tuna Nigiri
- Shrimp Nigiri
Sashimi
Sashimi is thinly sliced raw fish served without rice. If you love fresh seafood and want a more traditional experience, sashimi is a great option. If you’re new to sushi, don’t miss the delightful Salmon Sashimi Pack at Pika Sushi, a perfect choice to start your culinary adventure.
Tempura Rolls
If you’re not quite ready to try raw fish, tempura rolls are an excellent option to start with. These rolls are filled with deep-fried seafood or vegetables, providing a delightful crispy texture. When ordering this type of roll at Pika Sushi, be sure to check out popular options like the Dragon Roll or the Veggie Tempura Teriyaki Roll.
If you’re looking for a healthier choice, check out our Best Low Calorie Sushi Options!
How to Order Sushi?
Now that you understand key terms for ordering sushi, here are some tips to enhance your first bites of sushi.
1. Start with Cooked Options
If you’re new to sushi and unsure about raw fish, start with cooked or vegetarian rolls. Options like the California Crab Hand Roll, Veggie Tempura Teriyaki Hand Roll, and Avocado Cucumber Hand Roll are excellent for beginners.
2. Try a Sushi Platter for Variety
This tip is perfect for guests or families who are excited to dive into new foodie adventures together. Many sushi restaurants, like Pika Sushi, have delicious platters that feature a mix of rolls, nigiri, and sashimi. It’s a fun way to try out different types of sushi and find out what you love best.
3. Experiment with Sauces and Condiments
Sushi is so much more than just the fish; it’s all about the amazing flavours! Here are some tasty accompaniments to elevate your sushi experience:
- Soy Sauce: A little drizzle adds a salty umami boost.
- Wasabi: If you’re up for a spicy kick, this is the way to go.
- Spicy Mayo: This sauce makes a delicious drizzle over your rolls for an extra flavour.
4. Feel the Authentic Train Sushi
To order from Pika Sushi, you can either visit our website or dine in at one of our nearby locations. Simply select your meal from the menu, which includes hand rolls, rice paper rolls, inari, and more, and then proceed to checkout.
For an authentic experience, try our train sushi in Drouin, where we serve four types of plates: Red, Yellow, Blue, and Orange. Each plate offers a different type of sushi.
The chef will place sushi and sashimi on a conveyor belt, and the plates will continuously rotate. If you’d like to try any sushi passes in front of you, all you have to do is pick it up!
Interested in the differences between sushi handrolls vs sushi rolls? Learn more here!
Sushi Etiquette for Beginners
While trying sushi is a fun adventure, a few simple etiquette tips can make your experience even more enjoyable:
- Use your hands to eat nigiri if you prefer — it’s totally acceptable.
- Avoid mixing wasabi directly into your soy sauce. Instead, dab it lightly onto your sushi.
- Eat sushi pieces in one bite when possible, to enjoy the full flavor profile.
- Respect the chef’s creations by trying sushi as it’s presented without overloading with condiments.
Ready to Order?
Ordering sushi can be an exciting adventure, especially when you know what to expect. With a better understanding of the menu, you can explore sushi with confidence and uncover new favourites. Pika Sushi is the ideal place for your first experience. We offer fresh, high-quality ingredients, a range of beginner-friendly options, and a warm, inviting atmosphere that will make your journey enjoyable.
Why wait? Visit Pika Sushi today and embark on your delicious sushi adventure!
FAQ
The best sushi for beginners includes cooked rolls like California Roll, Avocado Cucumber Roll, and Tempura Rolls. These options are mild in flavor and don’t contain raw fish, making them perfect for first-timers.
Absolutely! Starting with cooked sushi like tempura rolls or crab rolls is a great way to ease into the sushi experience before trying raw fish options like sashimi or nigiri.
You can use chopsticks or your hands to eat sushi. Nigiri is traditionally eaten with hands, while rolls can be eaten with chopsticks. It’s best to eat sushi in one bite to enjoy the full flavor combination.
Common condiments include soy sauce, wasabi, and pickled ginger. You can also enjoy sushi with spicy mayo or ponzu sauce for extra flavor. Remember, a light dip is enough — too much sauce can overpower the sushi taste.
If you’re unsure, ordering a sushi platter is a great choice. It usually includes a variety of rolls, nigiri, and sashimi so you can try different styles and discover your favorites.
No worries! Many sushi options don’t include raw fish. Look for items like vegetable rolls, shrimp tempura rolls, or cooked tuna rolls to enjoy sushi without raw ingredients.
Sushi can be a healthy option, especially when choosing rolls with fresh vegetables, lean fish, and avoiding heavy sauces. You can also find low calorie sushi options if you’re mindful of your diet.
