Sake, a drink worth trying!
In Japanese tradition, sake is drunk warm, but you can order it cold... However, be aware that the taste is quite distinctive (warm or cold) and it may not suit all palates...
In Japanese tradition, sake is drunk warm, but you can order it cold...
However, be aware that the taste is quite distinctive (warm or cold) and it may not suit all palates...
We recommend ordering a single glass first before moving to a mini bottle of 18 cl (which costs around 800 yen).
For those familiar with "sake" served in Asian restaurants, know that you are not being served sake but rice alcohol with a lychee flavour, totally different from sake which has more of a stale fish aftertaste...
Frequently asked questions
In Japanese tradition, sake is generally consumed warm (called 'atsukan'). However, some premium-quality sake is enjoyed chilled to preserve its delicate aromas. Don't hesitate to try both to find your preference.
Sake is a Japanese fermented beverage made from rice, with a complex taste and subtle umami notes. Rice alcohol often served in Asian restaurants in Europe is a distilled beverage, usually sweeter with a lychee aroma, very different from true Japanese sake.
A mini bottle of sake of 18 cl costs around 800 yen in Japan. Prices vary depending on quality and type of sake. It is advisable to start with a single glass to test before investing in a bottle.
Sake is available in many places in Japan: izakaya (Japanese bistros), traditional restaurants, konbini (convenience stores) and specialist grocers. Certain regions such as Niigata or Kyoto are renowned for the quality of their production.
Sake has quite a distinctive taste that can surprise. Its aromatic profile, both dry and slightly umami, does not necessarily appeal to everyone. It is recommended to taste it in small quantities first, starting with a glass before purchasing a bottle.
