If you've ever scanned a Japanese menu and wondered whether you should order sushi, sashimi, nigiri, or maki — you're in good company. Here's a clear, three-minute guide so you can order with confidence.
Quick Answer
Sushi is any dish made with vinegared sushi rice — most commonly with fish on top or rolled in seaweed. Sashimi is just the raw fish itself, sliced and served without rice. Both can appear on the same plate.
Sushi (寿司)
The word "sushi" technically refers to the rice — vinegared, lightly seasoned rice that's served at body temperature. The fish, vegetable, or other topping is the supporting actor. There are several common forms:
Nigiri (握り)
Hand-pressed rice topped with a slice of fish or seafood. The simplest form — the chef's craft is fully on display.
Maki (巻き)
Sushi rice and fillings rolled in nori (seaweed), then sliced. Includes uramaki (rice on the outside) and futomaki (thick rolls).
Temaki (手巻き)
Hand-rolled cones of nori filled with rice, fish, and vegetables. Best eaten right away.
Chirashi (ちらし)
"Scattered" sushi — a bowl of seasoned sushi rice topped with assorted fish, vegetables, and garnishes.
Sashimi (刺身)
Sashimi is just the fish — sliced precisely, plated simply, served with wasabi, ginger, and shoyu. No rice. The cut, the freshness, and the chef's knife are the whole experience.
How to order at a Japanese restaurant
- If you want the rice experience: order sushi (nigiri or maki).
- If you want pure fish: order sashimi.
- If you want both: order a chirashi bowl or a chef's combo platter.
- If you're new: start with a California roll, a salmon nigiri pair, and a small sashimi sampler.
Try It Tonight
Order sushi, sashimi, nigiri, and rolls online — or reserve a table at our Denver or Colorado Springs dining room.
FAQ
Is all sashimi raw fish?
Almost always, yes — but some sashimi cuts are lightly seared (tataki style) or cured.
Is sushi always raw?
No. Many sushi rolls and nigiri pieces use cooked seafood (shrimp, eel, crab) or vegetables. Plenty of sushi options are fully cooked.
What should I order first as a beginner?
A California roll, a spicy tuna roll, salmon nigiri, and a small sashimi sampler — that's a balanced first plate.