Sakura 17, a name that evokes the delicate beauty of cherry blossoms and the timeless elegance of Japanese cuisine, promises a memorable dining experience. While I don't have access to a real-time, constantly updated menu for a specific restaurant named Sakura 17, I can offer a comprehensive guide to what you might expect on a typical Japanese restaurant menu, highlighting the variety and depth of flavors you can anticipate. This guide will focus on common dishes, allowing you to prepare yourself for your visit and make informed choices.
What to Expect on a Japanese Restaurant Menu Like Sakura 17's
A typical Japanese restaurant menu is organized into sections, making navigation easier. Expect categories like:
Appetizers (Appetizers/Starters)
These often include small dishes designed to stimulate the appetite. Popular choices include:
- Edamame: Steamed soybeans sprinkled with salt, a simple yet addictive starter.
- Gyoza: Pan-fried or steamed dumplings filled with pork and vegetables.
- Shumai: Steamed dumplings, often with a shrimp filling.
- Agedashi Tofu: Deep-fried tofu served in a savory dashi broth.
- Sunomono: A refreshing cold salad, usually featuring cucumbers and seaweed.
Sushi & Sashimi
This is the heart of many Japanese restaurants. You'll find a wide selection including:
- Nigiri: Slices of raw fish (sashimi) placed atop vinegared rice. Expect options like tuna (maguro), salmon (sake), yellowtail (hamachi), and more.
- Sashimi: Thinly sliced raw fish served without rice.
- Maki: Sushi rolls, with a vast array of fillings and styles, including California rolls, Philadelphia rolls, and more creatively filled options. Specify if you have any allergies or preferences.
- Uramaki (Inside-Out Rolls): Rice on the outside, seaweed inside.
Tempura
This section features dishes featuring lightly battered and deep-fried seafood and vegetables. Expect:
- Tempura Shrimp: Classic and always popular.
- Vegetable Tempura: A mix of seasonal vegetables.
- Tempura Udon/Soba: Noodles in a broth with tempura.
Noodles (Menrui)
Noodle dishes are a staple:
- Ramen: Wheat noodles in a rich broth with toppings like sliced pork (chashu), egg, and vegetables.
- Udon: Thick wheat noodles, often served in a broth or with a sauce.
- Soba: Thin buckwheat noodles, typically served cold with a dipping sauce or in a warm broth.
Donburi (Rice Bowls)
These are hearty rice bowls topped with various ingredients:
- Oyakodon: Chicken and egg over rice.
- Gyudon: Beef and onion over rice.
- Katsudon: Pork cutlet over rice.
Other Dishes
Many Japanese restaurants also offer other options, including:
- Teriyaki: Grilled meat (often chicken or beef) in a sweet and savory teriyaki sauce.
- Robatayaki: Grilled seafood and vegetables. (This might be a specialty item, not always available).
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Japanese Restaurants
Here are some common questions people have about Japanese restaurants:
What is the difference between sushi and sashimi?
Sushi includes vinegared rice, while sashimi is simply thinly sliced raw fish without rice. Sashimi emphasizes the purity of the fish's flavor and texture.
Are there vegetarian options at Japanese restaurants?
Yes! Many Japanese restaurants offer vegetarian options, such as vegetable tempura, tofu dishes, vegetable sushi rolls (ask about ingredients), and noodle soups with vegetable broth. Always clarify ingredients to ensure there are no hidden animal products.
What is the appropriate etiquette when eating at a Japanese restaurant?
Proper etiquette varies, but generally involves things like using chopsticks correctly, not sticking chopsticks upright in rice, and thanking the staff. Observing other diners is a good way to learn.
How spicy is the food at a typical Japanese restaurant?
Japanese cuisine is typically not very spicy, though some dishes might incorporate chili peppers or spice blends. If you are sensitive to spice, it's always best to ask the server about the level of spice in a dish before ordering.
What kind of drinks are typically served at Japanese restaurants?
Beyond water, Japanese restaurants often serve beer (Japanese and imported), sake (rice wine), green tea, and other non-alcoholic beverages like sodas.
This detailed overview should give you a good understanding of what to expect at a Japanese restaurant like Sakura 17. Remember to check their specific menu for prices and availability of dishes. Enjoy your culinary journey through Japan!
