Instructions

1

Ask the sushi chef to recommend the catch of the day, since sushi-grade fish is especially sensitive to seasonal changes.
2

Swim with the big guys by getting the basics down. Nigiri is fish pressed onto rice mounds. Maki are sushi rolls wrapped in nori seaweed, and sliced; temaki are hand-rolled seaweed cones containing rice and fish. Sashimi is raw fish.
3

Keep in mind that an average person eats 10 to 12 pieces in one sitting. Nigiri usually comes two pieces to the order; maki is sliced into six pieces. Begin with a few dishes and order more if people are still hungry.
4

Start with edamame (steamed and salted soybeans served in the shell), marinated seaweed salad, or miso soup if you'd like.
5

Order one or two types of nigiri. Hamachi (yellowtail), maguro (tuna), unagi (broiled eel) and sake (salmon) are popular choices. Sushi is served with wasabi (a green, sinus-clearing horseradish paste) and soy sauce. Experiment to see which condiments you prefer.
6

Ask the sushi chef to make you a surprise if you're ready for further adventures in sushi.
7

Follow up with some maki favorites: spicy tuna rolls, cucumber rolls or California rolls (cooked crab and avocado). Tobiko (crunchy fish roe) is a typical accompaniment.
8

Try uni (sea urchin) topped with a raw quail egg, if you're feeling bold.
9

Cleanse your palate between bites with a sip of green tea and some pickled ginger (traditionally served with sushi).
10

End the meal with tamago, a slightly sweet egg omelette atop rice, or a refreshing bowl of green tea ice cream.