Sushi confused? You're not alone. Between nigiri, sashimi, maki, and specialty rolls, the sushi menu can feel like reading a foreign language. Let's break it down so you can order like a pro, and discover new sushi varieties along the way.
See also: all-you-can-eat sushi vs traditional
"Every sushi order at Jinbeh starts with fresh fish and ends with a smile. Whether you're trying nigiri for the first time or you're a seasoned omakase enthusiast, we're here to guide your journey."
, The Jinbeh TeamDid You Know?
Modern sushi as we know it was invented by Hanaya Yohei in 1820s Tokyo. Before that, 'sushi' was actually a method of preserving fish by packing it in fermented rice for months, the rice was discarded! Yohei's genius was serving fresh fish on vinegared rice as fast food from street stalls, creating the nigiri we love today.
Source: Smithsonian National Museum of American History
🍱 The Main Types of Sushi
Nigiri
A slice of raw fish draped over a small mound of seasoned rice. Simple, elegant, and all about the fish quality.
Popular: Salmon, Tuna, Yellowtail
Sashimi
Pure, pristine slices of raw fish, no rice involved. The ultimate test of fish freshness and chef skill.
Popular: Salmon, Tuna, Scallop
Maki (Rolls)
Rice and fillings wrapped in seaweed (nori). Can be thin (hosomaki) or thick (futomaki).
Popular: Spicy Tuna, Cucumber
Uramaki (Inside-Out)
Rice on the outside, seaweed on the inside. American invention that birthed the California Roll.
Popular: California, Dragon, Rainbow
Specialty Rolls
Creative, often chef-inspired rolls with multiple ingredients, sauces, and sometimes torched or baked tops.
Popular: Dragon Roll, Volcano Roll
Temaki (Hand Roll)
Cone-shaped seaweed filled with rice, fish, and vegetables. Best eaten immediately before the nori gets soft.
Popular: Spicy Tuna Hand Roll
| Type | Best For | Rice? | Skill Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nigiri | Experiencing pure fish flavor | Yes | ⭐⭐⭐ Adventurous |
| Sashimi | Low-carb, fish purists | No | ⭐⭐⭐ Adventurous |
| Maki Rolls | Classic sushi experience | Yes | ⭐⭐ Intermediate |
| Specialty Rolls | Flavor exploration, sharing | Yes | ⭐ Beginner-friendly |
| Hand Rolls | Quick, casual eating | Yes | ⭐ Beginner-friendly |
Explore Related Sushi Articles:
Insider Tip
🌟 Jinbeh's Most Popular Sushi Varieties
Customer Favorites:
Eel, cucumber, avocado, unagi sauce
California roll topped with assorted sashimi
Baked spicy crab on California roll
Fresh tuna with spicy mayo
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
🍣 Ready to Explore?
Discover your new favorite sushi at Jinbeh. Fresh fish, expert rolls, unforgettable flavors. New to sushi? Check out our sushi for beginners guide.