Drinking the Japanese Way

You can enjoy a fine selection of alcoholic beverages at our Seattle sushi restaurant, including sake, wine, and draft beer. It is a common practice in Japan to drink with sushi and, as is the case with much of Japanese dining, this is a practice that is heavy with tradition. If you want to try properly immersing yourself in your Japanese experience, try following these customs:

First of all, you never pour your own liquor at a Japanese table. You must wait for a friend to fill your glass for you, and likewise keep an eye out for someone who needs you to fill his or her glass. If somebody offers to refill your drink, finish off your remaining wine or beer quickly and hold your glass out to them.

Drinking does not start until after everyone at the table is served. At this point, a drinking “salute” is made. Raise your glasses and say “kampai”, much as you would offer a toast. Now you are drinking the Japanese way!