Sake, Tea and Drinks for Sushi

The right drink should refresh the palate and support the seafood rather than overpower it. Sake is traditional, but Japanese beer, green tea, wine, whisky highballs and alcohol-free drinks can also work well.

Sake with sushi

Clean, lighter sake often suits delicate white fish, while fuller styles can handle tuna, eel and richer toppings. Temperature also matters: chilled sake highlights freshness, while warm sake can feel softer and more savoury.

Tea and alcohol-free choices

Green tea is one of the most practical sushi pairings because it refreshes the mouth without adding sweetness. Sparkling water and light citrus-based drinks can also work, particularly with fried or seared dishes.

Beer, whisky and wine

Japanese lager cuts through fatty fish and tempura. A light highball can suit grilled eel and richer dishes, while crisp white wine may work with scallop and white fish.

Where to begin

If you are unsure, ask the restaurant for one pairing that suits the majority of your order. For a Hong Kong dining experience, see our guide to sushi and sake pairing.