Japanese appetizers, known as zensai (前菜) or otōshi (お通し) in some dining settings, are an excellent introduction to Japanese cuisine.
Today, we would like to discuss the most popular Japanese appetizers in Atlanta and present our Chef’s signature zensai, for you to relish unique, high-quality versions.
Popular Japanese Appetizers in Atlanta and Worldwide
Japanese cuisine offers a great variety of zenzai. The following are some classics:
Edamame (枝豆)
Steamed or boiled young soybeans, lightly salted. A healthy and simple starter often served in izakaya (Japanese pubs).
Agedashi Tofu (揚げ出し豆腐)
Lightly fried tofu served in a warm dashi broth, garnished with green onions, grated daikon, and sometimes bonito flakes.
Gyoza (餃子)
Pan-fried dumplings filled with ground meat (often pork) and vegetables, served with soy sauce, rice vinegar, and chili oil.
Takoyaki (たこ焼き)
Ball-shaped snacks made from a batter filled with diced octopus, tempura scraps, pickled ginger, and green onions, often topped with takoyaki sauce, mayonnaise, and bonito flakes.
Sunomono (酢の物)
Vinegared salads, often made with cucumbers, seaweed, and sometimes seafood like octopus or shrimp.
Yakitori (焼き鳥)
Skewered and grilled chicken, usually seasoned with salt or a savory sauce called tare.
Tempura (天ぷら)
Lightly battered and deep-fried vegetables or seafood, served with a dipping sauce and grated radish.
Sashimi (刺身)
Thinly sliced raw fish or seafood usually served with soy sauce, wasabi, and pickled ginger.
Korokke (コロッケ)
Japanese croquettes, typically made with mashed potatoes or a creamy filling, breaded and deep-fried until crispy.
Unique Versions: Chef’s Signature Appetizers
Few experiences rival the artistry of chef-curated appetizers—At Tomo Japanese Restaurant, the Chef’s Signature Appetizers elevate the concept of small plates into a refined experience:
Kimme-Dai New Style Sashimi
This dish showcases the delicacy of seared Golden-Eye snapper, harmonizing bold garlic, ginger, and scallion with the tang of yuzu ponzu sauce. A drizzle of extra virgin olive oil and sesame oil ties together these exquisite flavors.
Garlic Pepper Toro
Seared Toro is the star of this creation, enhanced with salt, pepper, and fragrant garlic. A splash of ponzu adds a citrusy brightness to this melt-in-your-mouth delight.
Aji Tataki
Japanese Jackfish takes center stage in this offering with accents of ginger, scallion, and garlic ponzu.
Hanabi
A playful yet sophisticated bite, this dish pairs crispy rice with spicy tuna, crunchy garlic, and serrano pepper.
King Salmon Tartare
Fresh King Salmon is complemented by Tomo salsa, pink sea salt, and the aromatic notes of yuzu juice and truffle oil.
Japanese Snapper Nuta
Seared Japanese snapper is paired with scallion and a sweet-mustard-spiced miso sauce, balancing the savory and tangy elements perfectly.
Toro Tartare
Luxuriously chopped Toro meets creamy avocado mousse, chives, caviar, and a wasabi-soy blend.
Interactive Toban Yaki Creations
Toban Yaki (陶板焼き) is a traditional Japanese cooking method that translates to “ceramic plate grilling.” This technique involves grilling or searing ingredients on a hot ceramic plate (toban), which retains heat exceptionally well and allows for an even cooking process.
Since the dish is often prepared tableside, guests can enjoy a delightful sensory experience with the aroma and sizzle of the ingredients.
Among the Chef’s Signature Appetizers, our guests can enjoy the dramatic flair of table-seared Toban Yaki dishes:
- Scallop Toban Yaki: Scallops paired with broccoli and shiitake enoki mushrooms, seared tableside in a sesame soy sauce.
- Lobster Toban Yaki: Tempura lobster with a rich citrus butter sauce.
- Wagyu Toban Yaki: Featuring 2 oz of A5 Wagyu, this dish presents the finest beef seared to perfection at your table and served with garlic ponzu sauce.
Relish the Most Exquisite Japanese Appetizers in Atlanta
Zensai, Japanese appetizers, prepare the palate for the meal ahead. Although classic zensai are delicious, Tomo’s chef-crafted appetizers go beyond—they set the tone for an exceptional dining experience.
We invite you to indulge in the most high-quality Japanese appetizers in Atlanta at Tomo Japanese Restaurant and experience the true essence of 一期一会 (ichigo ichie)—a once-in-a-lifetime encounter with unforgettable flavors.
