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What to Expect at a Japanese Steakhouse

Few dining experiences are better than a true Japanese steakhouse. With a wide variety of main dishes, snacks and drinks, plus an atmosphere as rich as the menu, an authentic Japanese steakhouse will leave you with a full belly, but hungry for more.

As with any good steakhouse, pacing and tasting are key. You don’t want to overload yourself with snacks and drinks. However, you will definitely want to try a few of each. Most good restaurants will offer a wide selection of entrees, including various sushi rolls, miso soup, and crispy house salads. Pick one or two that you’ve never had before. Even if they aren’t your favorites, the portions are usually quite small, so no food goes to waste. Make sure to get an authentic Japanese drink as well. Most restaurants serve a good selection of house specialties, as well as sake, Japanese beer, plum wine, and non-alcoholic tea.

When it comes to your main dish, get a different type of meat than what you had as an appetizer. If you didn’t have an appetizer, get a platter for your main dish that you can sample and share with the rest of your table. Most Japanese steakhouses offer chicken, shrimp, lobster, and sirloin entrees, as well as samples of sushi and grilled vegetable options for the vegetarians in your group. Dishes and combinations like “Land and Sea” or Kobe / Wagyu dishes are a great way to get all your meats in one meal. If you are dining in a group, another strategy is to specialize and share. That way, everyone at your table can try a little of everything.

If you still have room for dessert, top off the dining experience with Mochi ice cream or Daifuku (rice cake filled with a deliciously sweet filling). If not, take your time to take the check. Authentic Japanese restaurants often have some of the most distinctive and immersive atmospheres out there. Sometimes the atmosphere is peaceful – traditional décor, dripping water, and dim lighting create a relaxing and serene dining experience. Other times, the Japanese steakhouse becomes a stage for the show: fires burn, blades cut, and food is often prepared directly in front of you. Be prepared, some places can literally throw food in your direction.

In general, when dining at a Japanese steakhouse, it is important to go on an empty stomach and an open mind. It also helps if you like meat. Expansive menus, traditional options, large portions, and immersive settings will have something for everyone. Go ahead and grab an extra napkin or two and leave a nice tip on your way out.

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