When you visit a new Japanese restaurant, you’re likely eager to try all the exciting rolls and dishes. Why not pair them with some tasty drinks? Sake is a popular Japanese alcoholic beverage served at many establishments, and with a bit of help, you can order it like a pro. The guide below will give you the information and tips you need to prepare for your next meal out at a Japanese restaurant.

What Is Sake?

Sake is a Japanese drink made from rice wine. It is made by fermenting rice to turn the starches into sugar and then alcohol. This beverage has a hearty alcohol content, typically ranging between 14% to 20% ABV (alcohol by volume), depending on the variety you order. 

What Types of Sake Are There?

Just as red and white wines can be found in many variations of red and white wines, there are multiple options to choose from when ordering rice wine. You can opt for a fuller-bodied variant, like junmai-shu, which is considered more acidic and less fragrant. You can also request nigori sake, which is sweeter and less potent—if you prefer a milder beverage, this is the right selection. Other options include sparkling sake, namazake, honjozo-shu, or daiginjo-shu. The next time you visit a Japanese restaurant, ask your waiter to go over the establishment’s different options and explain how they vary in flavor to determine the one that best suits your preferences. 

How Should You Order It?

Sake is traditionally served during the appetizer portion of the meal, so request the beverage when you first place your order. However, outside Japan it’s often enjoyed alongside large meals. You can ask for it either hot or cold, depending on a few factors. One is the time of year — for example, during winter, most people prefer to drink the beverage hot. Another factor is the meal you plan to order—cold sake might be better suited to sashimi and sushi, while hot sake goes well with teriyaki and noodles. 

If you’re looking for a Japanese restaurant with delicious dishes, tasty beverages, a welcoming atmosphere, and a helpful staff, visit Kabuto Japanese Steakhouse & Sushi Bar in Greensboro, NC. This locally owned and operated establishment is proud to offer authentic delicacies that are sure to please your palate and keep you coming back. Visit their website to view their menu, and call (336) 852-5550 to place an order with this Japanese restaurant today.