The Story of Sushi

To experience sushi is to sample a taste of ancient culture in modern times.  This exquisitely simple pairing of vingeared rice and fish, or other fresh ingredients finds its roots in Southeast Asia. 

Despite its current status as the uber-chic favorite food of connoisseurs and celebrities alike, sushi has its roots in rather humble beginnings.  In its earliest expression, sushi began as a preserving process utilized by Southeast Asians in the 7th century.  This method involved packing salted fish between layers of rice and leaving the combination to ferment for several months between heavy rocks.  The fish was eventually consumed and the rice thrown away.  The Japanese adopted this practice, which has come to be known as narezushi. 

The 19th century marked the beginning of the current style of nigiri-sushi.  In the 1820’s Hanaya Yohei began serving raw fish, sashimi, on sushi rice from his street stall in Edo (Tokyo today).   Edo, located on a bay then rich with fish and shellfish, was the birthplace of nigri-sushi, featuring a select bit of fresh seafood on a small pad of seasoned rice.  It is no wonder that this cuisine, emphasizing the bounty of what nature provided to the island, skyrocketed in popularity.  Outdoor sushi stalls began appearing all over Edo, catering to the busy lifestyles of the Japanese people.  Over time, informal outdoor sushi stalls were replaced by sushi shops where patrons could enjoy their meals in seated ease. 

The migration of sushi, and of Japanese food generally, into Western culture in the 1970’s sparked a revolution in America’s food consciousness.  Eschewing over-processed foods in favor of fresh and simple ingredients, health-minded consumers have made sushi a staple of the modern diet.  Recognizing the benefits of this high-protein, low fat, quintessentially fresh and natural cuisines, enthusiasts worldwide have embraced sushi. 

Inspired by a sincere respect and appreciation for Japanese cuisine, Sushi Maki now brings the sushi experience to your neighborhood in high energy, high-style environments, with our modern interpretations of this timeless fare.   We are passionate about providing the freshest, high-quality sushi, and maintaining uncompromising standards of food quality and safety.  We welcome you!