Sushi term
Wasabi 山葵
Wasabi is the pungent green condiment served with sushi — but the bright paste in most restaurants isn't wasabi at all. Real wasabi is a rare, fresh-grated root with a heat that blooms and fades in seconds, nothing like the horseradish blend you usually get.
Real vs. the imitation
True wasabi (from the Wasabia japonica plant) is grown in cold running water, grated to order on sharkskin, and mellow and aromatic. Most "wasabi" is dyed horseradish and mustard — sharper, harsher, longer-lasting.
Use it lightly
A serious chef already places the right amount of wasabi inside each nigiri. Piling more on, or stirring it into soy, is considered a way to mask the fish rather than complement it.
Insider tip. If a restaurant grates fresh wasabi at the counter, use it within minutes — its aroma disappears fast once it's grated.
Where to try Wasabi near you
Top-rated sushi spots on Yes Ichiban with real, orderable online menus:
Bayridge Sushi
Kissimmee, FL · ★★★★★★★★★★ 4.8
VOLCANO STEAK AND SUSHIDULUTH, GA · ★★★★★★★★★★ 4.7
Royal SushiChicago, IL · ★★★★★★★★★★ 4.7
Bayridge SushiLongwood, FL · ★★★★★★★★★★ 4.7
Volcano Steak & SushiWEST BERLIN, NJ · ★★★★★★★★★★ 4.7
Mikata Japanese Grill & SushiKnoxville, TN · ★★★★★★★★★★ 4.6