Sashimi is a staple on many seafood restaurant menus. Unlike sushi, the raw fish is typically served without rice and seaweed. If you’re unfamiliar with the dish, it’s best to sample some of the popular picks first and work your way up to more exotic fare. Here are a few options to order to find out if you like sashimi.

Popular Types of Sashimi to Try

1. Sake

Salmon, or sake, has an orange color with white vein-like lines, and the flavor varies depending on the type of fish. For example, chinook is creamy with a mild fish flavor while sockeye is firmer and leaner with a tangy aftertaste.

2. Hamachi

Yellowtail, or hamachi, ranges in color from icy pink to soft purple. The high fat content gives the fish a buttery, oily texture. Many sushi enthusiasts enjoy the fish’s bold, rich flavor and tangy bite.

3. Maguro

Bluefin tuna, or maguro, has a fleshy red color that resembles a raw steak, and you can choose from different cuts at a sushi restaurant. Lean akami is taken from the side of the fish, and it has the meaty taste of a rare filet. Taken from the underside, otoro is a fatty cut with a buttery, melt-in-your-mouth texture.

4. Tako

If you’re feeling adventurous, try octopus, or tako. It has a chewy texture, which is why the slices are cut ultra-thin. The fleshy meat is white, and the suckers are a rich purple color. The octopus is often poached first to enhance the sweet notes.

For a memorable introduction to sashimi, visit Tante’s Fishmarket Restaurant & Bar in Wailuku, HI. Located on the upper level of the Maalaea Harbor Shops, this locally owned seafood restaurant serves a delicious array of sushi and sashimi, including rolls and nigiri. View their sushi menu online, or call (808) 868-2148 to make a reservation. Connect with the team on Facebook for the latest news and updates.