A Global Love Affair with Sushi

Every year on June 18, sushi lovers unite to celebrate International Sushi Day—a moment dedicated to indulging in the delicate, flavorful world of Japan’s most famous culinary art. From classic tuna rolls to bold inventions like fried avocado maki, this day is about savoring variety and sharing the joy that sushi brings across cultures.

What Exactly Is Sushi?

At its core, sushi is a deceptively simple dish: vinegared rice paired with seafood, vegetables, or both. Despite popular belief, sushi doesn’t always include raw fish. Cooked options, like shrimp tempura rolls or tamago (sweet egg omelet), are just as traditional. And let’s not forget modern innovations—hello, spicy mayo, cream cheese, and yes, fried avocado!

The Origins: Sushi’s Humble Beginnings

Sushi dates back over 2,000 years to Southeast Asia, where people preserved fish by fermenting it with rice. This method eventually reached Japan and evolved into the more refined and less fermented version we know today. In the Edo period (1603–1868), Tokyo street vendors began selling nigiri sushi, marking the birth of fast and fresh sushi culture.

Styles of Sushi: More Than Just Rolls

• Nigiri: Hand-formed rice topped with fish or other ingredients
• Maki: Rolled sushi wrapped in seaweed
• Temaki: Cone-shaped hand rolls
• Sashimi: Thin slices of raw fish (technically not sushi since it lacks rice)
• Uramaki: Inside-out rolls with rice on the outside

Each style showcases regional ingredients, creativity, and the chef’s personal touch.

Why the World Can’t Get Enough

Sushi offers the perfect blend of health, artistry, and taste. It can be light yet satisfying, beautifully presented, and endlessly customizable. Whether you’re dining at a high-end omakase spot or grabbing a spicy tuna roll on the go, sushi has become a global sensation thanks to its adaptability.

Celebrating the Right Way

Today is the perfect excuse to treat yourself! Visit a local sushi restaurant, support a small Japanese eatery, or try your hand at rolling maki at home. Feeling adventurous? Experiment with fusion flavors, like kimchi rolls or even dessert sushi with fruits and chocolate.

A Cultural Icon That Continues to Evolve

Though rooted in Japanese tradition, sushi continues to evolve with every bite taken across the world. International Sushi Day isn’t just about eating—it’s about appreciating the history, craftsmanship, and culture behind every roll.