If you have never been to a Japanese restaurant before, you may be surprised at what you find on the menu. When the average American thinks of Japanese food, they think of sushi. It is true that this is a part of Japanese cuisine and will be found at almost all Japanese restaurants, but it is only a small part of the menu. In fact at many restaurants, especially on the dinner menu, sushi is only an appetizer. Another appetizer which is often served is sashimi. This is simply raw fish. There are those who like to eat it as a main dish, but most often this is served at the beginning of a meal. Various noodle soups are also popular. Most of the time this type of soup is light and will come before the main dish. Rice is a large part of Japanese cuisine and can be ordered as a side dish, but can be seen throughout the menu. Rice is an important part of sushi, as well as other dishes seen on the menu.
For an American, the main dishes that are served at a Japanese restaurant can be surprising. Although there are fish dishes offered, the Japanese have a fondness for chicken as well as beef. Some of the best beef you will ever eat will be found in Japanese restaurants. There is a certain taste to the meat that is particular to Japanese food. The sauces that the meat is marinated in will be based on soy sauce along with other ingredients. The most famous flavor is that of teriyaki sauce which is used with chicken. The vegetables that are served with meat are familiar to Americans but they are usually fried and retain much of their natural flavors. You can always finish your meal with a little sake. This is an alcoholic beverage brewed from rice. Although sometimes called rice wine, it is stronger than red or white wine. Wine usually averages about 12 percent alcohol content whereas sake will be closer to 20 percent.
