Sushi is a delicate symphony, with subtle flavors that are balanced and nuanced. The right drink can enhance the dining experience by enhancing the textures and flavors without overwhelming them. The pairing of sushi is as much an art as the sushi itself. The right beverage can transform every bite, whether you like traditional Japanese drinks or modern twists.
Sake and Sushi: The Classic Choice
Sake, Japan’s rice wine of choice, is the perfect accompaniment to sushi. Sake is made from rice fermented with water, yeast, and koji mould. It has a variety of flavors ranging from crisp and dry to floral and sweet.
As a general rule, lighter, cleaner sakes go well with delicate fish. Full-bodied, richer sakes are best paired with bolder flavors, such as eel and tuna. A dry junmai will enhance the sweetness of the sushi rice, while a fruity, ginjo sake will highlight the freshness and crispness of the sashimi.
When paired with sushi, it is best to serve the sake slightly chilled, which preserves the crispness of the fish and lets the flavors shine through.
Green Tea: The Unsung Hero
In Japan, agari is usually served with sushi. It’s a hot cup of green tea. It’s not just a matter of tradition, but it also serves a purpose. Green tea’s bitterness helps to cleanse the palate, so you can fully enjoy each flavor. Sencha, with its grassy notes, or roasted Hojicha, with its toasty scent, are two excellent choices to enhance your dining experience.
Modern Pairings of Wine, Beer, and Beyond
Sushi has become a global phenomenon, and so have the creative pairings. White wines that are light and crisp, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Riesling, pair well with sushi rolls. They balance the acidity of the rice with the sweetness. Sparkling wine or Champagne is also delicious, as the bubbles refresh your palate between bites.
Beer lovers will find that Japanese lagers such as Asahi and Sapporo, which are neutral in flavor, make the perfect companions to sushi’s fresh flavors. Craft beers that have citrus or floral notes are also a good choice.
Try pairing sushi with a chilled cocktail based on sake or a smooth Japanese whiskey. Both can add complexity to the dish when consumed in moderation.
Sushi Inc. is a vibrant restaurant that offers what is considered the best sushi in St Petersburg. Opening its doors in 2013 and becoming a local staple by offering live music, traditional hand-rolled sushi, and a friendly atmosphere, our guests always have a top-notch experience. Customers love our award-winning, fresh, and creative Sushi rolls, Nigiri, and Sashimi. With a larger selection of tempura, non-Sushi, and teriyaki options, we can accommodate every taste.
