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When it comes to the Japanese delicacy known as Sushi, people either love it or they hate it. There’s just no in between and this is probably because Sushi is made from raw fish and other ingredients that evoke strong reactions of love and hate.

Those who love their Sushi agree that there are certain tips that will help those starting out to have the best possible experience as they try a new food. Follow these guidelines, and it’s possible you may end up in the Sushi-lovers camp.

Start by checking out any Sushi restaurants in your city. All quality sushi establishments have a bar where the fish is displayed. Don’t be reluctant to take a look, that’s what the bar is there for. Take a good look at the fish. It should look juicy, not dry, and it should be what the chef is using to prepare sushi dishes. If he isn’t using the display fish, ask why not. Truly reputable sushi restaurants take great pride in showing off the quality and freshness of their fish, which is what this culinary specialty is all about. If the restaurant doesn’t have a fish display, don’t even think of eating sushi there.

Next, avoid any “all you can eat” sushi restaurant. Once again, the issue is quality, and places that advertise “all you can eat” typically prepare large amounts of fish in advance. The freshness diminishes the longer the food is held. Granted, top quality seafood is expensive, but when it comes to sushi, diners really do get what they pay for. Those who remain unconvinced ought to try their own taste test. Eat once in an “all you can eat” sushi restaurant, and then go to a traditional establishment where diners pay by the piece. The flavor of premium quality sushi should be all the evidence needed to prefer the traditional restaurant.

Another thing to note is whether diners are forced to order everything all at once, or whether they can order a few pieces of sushi at a time. A quality restaurant will place as much emphasis on the dining experience as on the food, allowing its customers to savor each piece of sushi individually. After all, it’s not Japanese fast food, but a gourmet delicacy in its own right. If the server in a sushi restaurant insists the diners order all at once, that could be a sign that the fish isn’t fresh, or that large amounts have been prepared in advance. Take note, and try another establishment.

Also note the flavor of the rice used in sushi dishes. Sushi rice is short-grained rice combined with sugar, rice vinegar, salt and water. This imparts a delicate flavor to the rice accompanying the fish. If the rice has no flavor, try another restaurant.

Check the menu for a combination of traditional sushi and sashimi dishes and more modern versions such as California Rolls. A lack of traditional dishes on the menu could mean that the sushi chef has not received proper training, and the sushi served there could be less than authentic.

Finally, treat yourself to the “chef’s special. Just as the sushi chef to prepare what he thinks best with the available fish. It’s a risk, true, but it could also lead to a tasty experience – to say nothing of creating a good relationship with the chef!