Start with the menu format
Sushi restaurants may use a conveyor-belt menu, à la carte ordering, set meals or a combination. Check whether the menu is organized by nigiri, rolls, hand rolls, sashimi, hot dishes or bento. The same term can cover different preparations, so use the restaurant’s item description and photographs as a guide.
Know common sushi categories
Nigiri is typically a topping served over pressed rice, while maki and uramaki describe rolled preparations. Hand rolls are cone-shaped, and sashimi is sliced seafood served without sushi rice. Restaurant terminology and recipes can vary, so treat these categories as a reading aid and check the specific menu description.
Check the full roll ingredients
A sushi roll can include seafood, vegetables, rice, seaweed, sauces and toppings. Spicy mayonnaise, tempura flakes, cream cheese or imitation crab can affect ingredients and allergens. Review the complete description, not just the roll name, and use the local restaurant’s allergen information where available.
Compare bento and set-menu portions
Bento boxes may combine a main dish with rice, salad, soup, sushi or sides. Check which components are included and whether the set is available at lunch or dinner. Compare the same items and serving sizes before judging value against ordering à la carte.
Review seafood and dietary notes
Restaurants may indicate whether seafood is raw, cooked, seasonal or sourced from different locations. Availability can vary by day and region. If you have an allergy, dietary requirement or question about raw seafood, contact the restaurant and verify the exact dish before ordering.
Use the right local menu
International chains and local sushi restaurants may publish different country menus. Choose the branch and order method before browsing, especially for delivery. A third-party listing can help discover a dish, but the restaurant is the final source for current ingredients, availability and preparation.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between sushi rolls and nigiri?
Nigiri is generally a topping placed on pressed sushi rice, while a roll combines ingredients wrapped with rice and seaweed. Restaurants may use their own naming conventions, so read each item description.
Does a sushi menu show which fish is raw?
Some menus specify raw, cooked or seared preparations, while others may not. Ask the restaurant about the exact item if the preparation matters to your order.
How do I check allergens on a sushi menu?
Read the restaurant’s allergy guide for sauces, toppings and sides as well as the main item. If you have an allergy, ask the restaurant how the food is prepared.
Browse restaurant menus by country
Use a local directory to find a restaurant menu for the market where you plan to order. Each restaurant page links to its local restaurant menu, so you can check current dishes, prices and availability for the right country.
MenuAndMe is an independent website and is not affiliated with any restaurant brand. Always confirm current details with the restaurant.