Stop Ordering These 10 Basic Dishes At Japanese Restaurants, Try These 10 Instead
If you've taken a liking to Japanese cuisine, we're here to tell you that there's more to it than meets the eye. Instead of ordering the same California Roll and edamame combo, why not try something different? Japanese cuisine is rich and expansive - there are so many unique and delicious dishes for you to try! Here are 10 basic dishes we suggest you stop ordering so that you can try these 10 next time instead.
1. California Roll
Did you know the California Roll isn't traditionally Japanese and is actually an American invention? While it is a tasty and popular roll you can easily find at any Japanese restaurant in the US, maybe it's time to jump outside your comfort zone to explore more authentic flavours.
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2. Teriyaki Chicken
Another dish often found in westernized Japanese restaurants, teriyaki chicken is a fan favourite that actually isn't something you'd find much in Japan. The sauce is much sweeter and heavier in America, and is made to please Western palates.
3. Tempura Ice Cream
While tempura is a traditional Japanese technique, the tempura ice cream you might find at some Japanese restaurants in America, is not. It's more of a novelty dessert item! Maybe it's worth trying some more traditional and unique desserts like mochi or dorayaki.
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4. Spicy Tuna Roll
Spicy Tuna Rolls are up there as one of the most popular rolls to order, and while it's true that they're super tasty, they don't exactly showcase the natural flavours of the fish. Oftentimes, the spicy mayo sauce is too heavy, overshadowing the quality and flavour of the seafood.
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5. Philadelphia Roll
No roll is more American than the ones with cream cheese in it! The Philadelphia Roll is another example of an Americanized sushi option that isn't found traditionally in Japanese sushi cuisine. The flavour is a bit overpowering, transforming the fresh fish into something else entirely.
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6. Chicken Yakisoba
Chicken yakisoba is a common Japanese-style fried noodle dish that you can easily find on the menu. Its flavours appeal to a wide variety of audiences, making it clear why it's a popular pick. But next time, maybe it's time to try some lesser-known but equally delicious noodle dishes like soba!
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7. Dragon Roll
Topped with avocado and eel sauce, The Dragon Roll is arguably one of the most ordered specialty rolls around (maybe because it's got such a cool name!). This American-style sushi definitely packs a punch in the flavour department, but it's definitely more about the visual appeal than the traditional sushi flavours.
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8. Edamame with Salt
Edamame is a beloved starter thanks to its simplicity. However, we might argue, maybe it's a little too simple? It's a dish so common, it might be preventing some customers from exploring other more unique appetizers.
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9. Gyoza
Gyoza are Japanese pan-fried dumplings that are delicious, but can easily be found in many other Asian cuisines too with slight variations. If you want to get to know Japanese cuisine a bit more, it might be more worth ordering something you've never tried before.
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10. Katsu Don
Katsu Don is a bowl of steaming rice topped with breaded pork cutlet, egg, and onions. It's a comfort staple in Japan that you definitely should try once! But instead of ordering it over and over again, we encourage trying other types of donburis - there are so many to try, from beef to unagi!
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1. Unagi Don
Speaking of dons, one you absolutely need to try is the iconic and luxurious unagi don - grilled eel! Glazed with a sweet and savory sauce that perfectly complements the bed of steamed rice, this dish is a must try. Everything tastes so balanced and the delicate texture and rich flavour of the eel is excellently highlighted.
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2. Chikuzenni
That's definitely a difficult word to say, but it's worth experiencing the bit of embarrassment butchering the word while ordering to try it! Chikuzenni is a traditional Japanese braised dish that's made with a variety of ingredients like chicken, root vegetables, and shiitake mushrooms. Flavoured by its soy sauce-based broth, this is one hearty dish that will warm your soul.
3. Omurice
Part omelet, part fried rice, what's not to love? A comforting meal that'll taste just like mom's cooking, omurice has taken the world by storm thanks to its delicious taste and fun preparation. If you ever get a chance to watch a chef prepare this dish, you'll be in awe of their skill. Who knew cooking eggs could be a talent?
4. Nikujaga
Made with meat (typically beef), potatoes, onions, and sometimes carrots, Nikujaga is the epitome of a heartwarming stew. Simmered in sweetened soy sauce, you'll be surprised by how flavourful the dish is. The Japanese definitely have a knack for balancing simplicity with depth!
Yumi Kimura from Yokohama, JAPAN on Wikimedia Commons
5. Hamachi Kama
Hamachi Kama is grilled yellowtail collar, a luxurious dish that's renowned for its tender, fatty meat. Often served with a side of soy sauce for dipping, this is one simple dish that'll show you the power of natural flavours.
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6. Takoyaki
One of Japan's most popular street snacks, takoyaki is a must try! Made from a flour-based batter that's stuffed with octopus, tempura scraps, pickled ginger, and green onion, it's topped off with a delightful takoyaki sauce and mayonnaise. It's an "explode in your mouth" kind of flavour that you can devour in just one bite!
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7. Yakiniku
Yakiniku simply translates to "grilled meat." Also known as Japanese BBQ, this is more so an experience than just a meal. It involves grilling bite-sized pieces of meat at your table, cooking and sharing the food together with friends and family. It's such a fun dining experience that's topped off with delicious cuts of meat!
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8. Kaisendon
If you're a seafood lover, look no further than Kaisendon for your perfect meal. This is every seafood lover's dream - just imagine a bowl of steaming rice topped with a generous assortment of fresh sashimi. It can include anything from fish, shrimp, sea urchin, and even crab! It's colourful, pretty to look at, and so fresh to eat.
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9. Okonomiyaki
Okonomiyaki is a type of Japanese pancake, and no, we're not talking about the maple syrup and whipped cream kind. This is Japan's take on a savory pancake, literally translating into "grilled as you like it." With so many customizable options, you can include your preferred combination of ingredients, from seafood, meat, or vegetables.
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10. Udon Sukiyaki
Combining the best of both udon and the classic Sukiyaki hot pot, this dish is everything you want in a filling and satisfying meal. Featuring thick and chewy udon noodles, they're thrown in a savory soy sauced-based broth that's loaded with beef, tofu, and vegetables.
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