Appetizers

What are appetizers in Japanese cuisine?

In Japan, appetizers are small dishes served before the main course to awaken the appetite and set the mood for the meal. They focus on balance and clarity of taste: gentle saltiness, light sweetness, a touch of acidity and that signature umami from soy sauce, seaweed, sesame, ginger or bonito. Instead of “heavy” snacks, Japanese Starters often feel neat and purposeful — just enough to warm up your palate before sushi, rolls or hot dishes.

Appetizers can be cold or hot, steamed, pan-seared or lightly fried. Popular options include gyoza dumplings, tempura, and takoyaki. Ingredients are usually simple and wholesome: vegetables, chicken, tofu, shrimp and other seafood, paired with aromatic sauces (for example, an unagi-style glaze). Portion sizes are modest, which fits a health‐minded approach: you can start with protein and vegetables, then move to sushi without feeling overfull.

Appetizers at Mister Sushi restaurant

Here we offer hot appetizers that pair perfectly with our rolls and sets. Choose from several gyoza styles — Gyoza with kimchi and pork, Gyoza with chicken and vegetables, Gyoza with BBQ beef, or a lighter vegetarian option with tofu and vegetables. Looking for a Seafood appetizer? Try Tempura shrimp, crispy on the outside and tender inside. For something truly Japanese, Takoyaki octopus balls come with “Unagi” sauce and bonito. Each item shows weight, number of pieces and allergens, and the price is displayed right next to it — so your sushi appetizer menu is easy to plan.

Start your meal with our appetizers!

Ordering takes just a moment: pick your dish, click “Add,” combine it with the sushi set that you ordered before, and complete checkout for delivery or pickup. If you want a gentle start, choose tofu gyoza; if you like a brighter kick, go for kimchi. Tempura shrimp works well when you want crunch, while takoyaki is ideal for sharing. Whether you call them Starters or a japan appetizer, these small plates help you begin the meal the right way — tasty, warm and perfectly matched to sushi.