Japanese cuisine is one of the most popular and loved cuisines in the world. It offers a perfect blend of flavors, textures, and colors in every dish, making it an absolute delight for food lovers. However, the vast array of options available at a Japanese restaurant could be confusing, especially for first-timers. Read this guide to help you navigate your way through the menu and know exactly what to order at a Japanese restaurant.

Sushi

Sushi is a very popular Japanese dish. It is a dish made from cooked vinegared rice, topped with ingredients like fish, seafood, or vegetables. Sushi comes in different forms, including maki (rolled sushi), nigiri (hand-pressed sushi), and sashimi (sliced raw fish). To enjoy the authentic Japanese sushi experience, try nigiri, which is usually served without any added flavors or sauces.

Ramen

Ramen is a bowl of noodles served in a hot broth with various toppings. The broth can be made from pork, chicken, or vegetables, and it’s usually flavored with soy sauce or miso. Ramen is a comfort food in Japan and is enjoyed by both young and old. Some popular toppings include sliced pork, menma (fermented bamboo shoots), scallions, and seaweed.

Yakitori

Yakitori is a popular Japanese dish made from skewered chicken, grilled over charcoal. It comes in different varieties and flavors, with each skewer containing different parts of the chicken, including thighs, breasts, and wings. Yakitori is usually brushed with a sweet and savory sauce called tare. It’s perfect as a side dish or as a main dish served with rice or noodles.

Tempura

Tempura is a dish made of battered and fried seafood or vegetables. The batter used is light and crispy, which gives the dish a crunchy texture. Tempura is served as an appetizer and is usually accompanied by a dipping sauce made from soy sauce and grated daikon radish. Some common ingredients used for tempura include shrimp, squid, sweet potatoes, and eggplant.

Okonomiyaki

Okonomiyaki is a savory pancake made of flour, grated yam, shredded cabbage, and various other ingredients like pork belly, seafood, and scallions. The batter is cooked on a griddle and topped with a sweet and savory sauce called okonomiyaki sauce, mayonnaise, and bonito flakes. This dish is a must-try when visiting Japan.

Japanese cuisine offers an incredible range of dishes that are both delicious and healthy. Knowing what to order at a Japanese restaurant can seem daunting, but with this ultimate guide, you can confidently navigate your way through the menu. Make sure to try some of these popular dishes like sushi, ramen, yakitori, tempura, and okonomiyaki, and you’ll be sure to have an unforgettable Japanese dining experience.

For more information on Japanese restaurant dishes, contact a company near you.