Planning a visit to a Japanese restaurant but not sure what to order? With its rich culinary traditions, vibrant flavors, and artistic presentations, Japanese cuisine is a feast for both the eyes and the palate. Whether you’re a seasoned sushi enthusiast or exploring Japanese food for the first time, this guide will help you decide on the top must-order dishes to savor on your next visit. From warm, comforting bowls of ramen to expertly crafted sashimi, here’s everything you need to know about the staples and must-try items at a Japanese restaurant.
1. Sushi
No trip to a Japanese restaurant is complete without indulging in sushi. Sushi is a delicate combination of vinegared rice, raw fish, and other ingredients, often wrapped in seaweed or served as a simple rice topping. Opt for popular varieties like nigiri (hand-pressed rice topped with fish) or maki rolls (rolled sushi with seaweed). For beginners, California rolls or salmon nigiri are great choices, while seasoned connoisseurs may lean toward otoro (fatty tuna) for its melt-in-your-mouth texture.
2. Sashimi
If you love the taste of fresh fish, sashimi is your go-to dish. It’s thinly sliced raw fish served without rice, allowing the natural flavors of the seafood to shine. You’ll often find sashimi made from tuna, salmon, yellowtail, or snapper. Enhance the experience by pairing the sashimi with soy sauce, wasabi, and pickled ginger.
3. Ramen
A comforting bowl of ramen is hard to resist, especially during colder days. Japanese ramen comes in flavorful broths like miso, shoyu (soy sauce), tonkotsu (pork bone), or shio (salt). Topped with slices of chashu pork, nori, soft-boiled eggs, and green onions, ramen is a hearty, soul-warming dish that’s perfect for all occasions.
4. Tempura
For a light and crispy treat, tempura is a must-try. This dish consists of seafood or vegetables lightly battered and deep-fried to golden perfection. Shrimp tempura is a classic favorite, but don’t miss out on vegetable tempura like sweet potato, pumpkin, and eggplant. Tempura is often served with tentsuyu, a flavorful dipping sauce made from soy sauce, dashi, and mirin.
5. Donburi
Looking for a filling rice bowl? Donburi, also known as Japanese rice bowls, comes loaded with flavorful toppings. Popular options include:
- Gyudon (thin slices of beef simmered in soy sauce-based broth)
- Katsudon (fried pork cutlets with egg)
- Unadon (eel glazed with sweet teriyaki-like sauce)
Donburi is a comforting and satisfying one-dish meal perfect for lunch or dinner.
6. Yakitori
Yakitori, or skewered grilled chicken, is a popular dish at izakayas (Japanese pubs). These skewers are seasoned with salt or tare (a sweet-savory sauce) and grilled to perfection. You can order different cuts of chicken, from thigh and breast to less common parts like liver or gizzard. Pair yakitori with a cold beer for an authentic Japanese experience.
7. Edamame
Simple yet addictive, edamame (steamed and salted young soybeans) is a great way to start your meal. These tender beans are served in their pods and make for an excellent snack or appetizer.
8. Gyoza
Gyoza are Japanese dumplings filled with ground meat, vegetables, and spices, typically pan-fried for a crispy bottom and tender filling. Dip them in a mix of soy sauce and rice vinegar for a burst of flavor. They’re small, satisfying, and sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
9. Tonkatsu
Tonkatsu is a Japanese breaded and fried pork cutlet, served with shredded cabbage and a tangy tonkatsu sauce. Its crunchy exterior and juicy, tender interior make it an irresistible option. Tonkatsu is often featured in dishes like katsudon (over rice) or in sandwiches.
10. Miso Soup
No Japanese meal is complete without a bowl of miso soup. Made from fermented soybean paste (miso) mixed with dashi (broth), the soup typically includes tofu, seaweed, and green onions. Its umami-rich flavor is both comforting and nourishing, serving as the perfect accompaniment to your main meal.
11. Okonomiyaki
Often described as a savory Japanese pancake, okonomiyaki is a combination of shredded cabbage, flour, eggs, and choice of ingredients such as pork belly, shrimp, or octopus. It’s cooked on a griddle and topped with mayonnaise, okonomiyaki sauce, and bonito flakes for a uniquely delicious flavor. It’s a must-try if you’re looking for something a little different!
12. Matcha Desserts
Don’t forget dessert! Matcha (powdered green tea) is a popular ingredient in Japanese sweets. Try matcha ice cream, matcha tiramisu, or mochi filled with matcha-flavored cream for a satisfying end to your Japanese culinary adventure.
Final Thoughts on Navigating a Japanese Menu
Exploring Japanese cuisine offers a unique and exciting dining experience. From the freshness of sushi and sashimi to the comforting flavors of ramen and donburi, every dish tells a story of tradition and craftsmanship. Whether you’re new to Japanese cuisine or a seasoned enthusiast, these must-try dishes promise an unforgettable culinary experience.
Next time you visit a Japanese restaurant such as En Sushi, use this guide to challenge your palate and discover the wonderful world of Japanese flavors. And if you’re feeling extra adventurous, ask your server for their personal recommendations or seasonal specialties.
