How to eat sushi correctly: chopsticks, hands, and the subtleties of Japanese etiquette
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Japanese cuisine is not just food, but an entire philosophy where aesthetics and ritual are as important as taste. But when an appetizing set from Sushi Market is in front of us, many wonder: is it mandatory to use chopsticks? Can you eat with your hands? And where is the correct place to put the ginger? Let’s break down the basic rules of etiquette so that your dinner in Podgorica, Bar, or Novi Sad is at the level of a true connoisseur.
Chopsticks or hands: what do traditions say? The main myth is that sushi and rolls can only be eaten with chopsticks (hashi). In fact, traditional Japanese etiquette allows eating sushi with your hands.
Sushi (nigiri): Men are officially allowed to take them with their hands. For women, the tradition is stricter, but in the modern world, this rule has become much softer.
Rolls: They are usually eaten with chopsticks as they are more fragile, but if you can't manage with hashi — don't hesitate to use your hands. The main thing is not to use a fork, as it destroys the structure of the rice and is considered "bad form" in Japanese culture.
The 5 main "DON'Ts" of using chopsticks If you still decide to use hashi, remember the rules of decency:
Don't rub the chopsticks against each other. In restaurants, this can be perceived as a hint that the utensils are cheap or of poor quality.
Don't pass food with chopsticks to another person. This resembles a funeral rite in Japan. Simply move the plate closer to your friend.
Don't stick chopsticks into the rice vertically. This is another symbol associated with a memorial service.
Don't point with your chopsticks at people or objects. This is perceived as aggressively as pointing a finger.
Don't "pierce" the roll with a chopstick. If the roll falls apart, it's better to carefully pick it up from below.
How to correctly use soy sauce and ginger? Many make the mistake of turning a roll into an "island" in an ocean of sauce. Here is how to do it correctly:
Dip the fish, not the rice. Rice instantly absorbs the sauce, which can cause the roll to fall apart and the taste to become too salty. Turn the nigiri on its side and lightly touch the sauce with the edge of the fish.
Ginger is not a topping. You don't need to put it on top of the roll. The task of ginger is to "reset" your taste buds between different types of sushi so that you can fully experience the taste of tuna after salmon.
Where to put the chopsticks after eating? When you have finished your meal, place the chopsticks on a special stand (hashioki) or on the edge of the plate parallel to the table. Crossed chopsticks on a plate are a sign that you didn't like it or that you are still in the process.
Practice with pleasure! Etiquette is interesting, but remember: the main goal of visiting Sushi Market in Montenegro or Serbia is to enjoy the freshest rolls. Even if you are just learning to hold chopsticks, our chefs will make sure that every piece is perfect. Ready to put your knowledge into practice? Order your favorite set right now and enjoy the taste of real Japan! Go to the Sushi Market menu
