If you've never tried sushi before, stepping into a proper Japanese restaurant can feel like walking into a different world. The menu is full of unfamiliar words, chopsticks look intimidating, and everyone else seems to know exactly what they're doing. But honestly? It's far simpler than it looks. Sushi is one of the most approachable Japanese dishes, and Dozo Soho on Old Compton Street is an excellent place to start. This guide covers everything you need to know for your first sushi dining experience – from what to order to how to eat it.

Getting Started: What to Expect at Dozo Soho

Dozo Soho sits at 32 Old Compton Street, in the thick of Soho's restaurant scene. The entrance is unassuming, but inside you'll find a warm, modern space with exposed brick walls, dim lighting, and a long sushi counter where you can watch the chefs at work. The atmosphere is relaxed and buzzy, but not so loud that you can't hear yourself think. If you're nervous about using chopsticks, don't worry – the staff are friendly and will happily bring you a fork if you ask. But part of the fun is trying, so give it a go.

The menu is extensive but well-organised, with pictures and clear descriptions – something that's a real help if you're new to this. You'll find sushi, sashimi, maki rolls, and a selection of hot dishes like teriyaki and tempura. For a first-timer, it's best to start with something familiar: a California roll or a salmon maki. These are mild, easy to eat, and a safe bet if you're not sure about raw fish. And if you're feeling adventurous, don't worry – you'll soon be ordering like a regular.

How to Order: A Step-by-Step Guide

Ordering at Dozo is straightforward. You can either choose individual items from the menu or go for a set meal, which offers good value. Here's a simple approach for your first visit:

• Start with edamame or miso soup – these are light and familiar starters. The edamame comes sprinkled with sea salt; the miso soup has tofu, seaweed, and spring onions. Both are gentle on the palate.
• Try a maki roll – cucumber maki or salmon maki are gentle introductions. If you want something a bit more interesting, go for the California roll (crab, avocado, cucumber) or the salmon avocado maki.
• Move on to nigiri – a slice of fish over vinegared rice. Salmon or tuna are popular choices. Ask your server which is freshest that day.
• Finish with a dessert – mochi ice cream (try green tea or mango) or tempura banana with ice cream are lovely.

If you're dining with friends, ordering a few different dishes to share is a great way to sample more. The 'Dozo Set' is a good option for one person: it includes miso soup, salad, a selection of nigiri and maki, and a dessert, all for around £20. Don't be afraid to ask your server for recommendations – they're used to first-timers and genuinely happy to help.

Sushi Etiquette: Eating with Confidence

There's no need to be precious about sushi etiquette, but a few simple tips will help you feel more comfortable:

• Use chopsticks or your hands – nigiri is traditionally eaten with fingers. It's perfectly acceptable. In fact, many sushi chefs prefer it because the rice is less likely to fall apart.
• Dip fish-side down – when dipping nigiri into soy sauce, dip the fish, not the rice, to avoid the rice absorbing too much soy and falling apart. A light dip is all you need.
• Eat in one bite – each piece is designed to be eaten whole. It's okay if it's a bit big; just manage it. The balance of flavours and textures works best that way.
• Wasabi and ginger – add wasabi to your soy sauce if you like heat, but remember it's strong. Pickled ginger is a palate cleanser between different types of fish – eat it on its own, not on top of sushi. And don't rub your chopsticks together; it implies they're cheap.

And don't worry about making a mess – it's all part of the experience. If you drop a piece, just pick it up and carry on. The staff at Dozo are far too polite to mind.

What Not to Order (and What to Try)

As a beginner, you might want to avoid anything with extreme textures or strong flavours. Sea urchin (uni) and raw octopus are acquired tastes – save those for later. Instead, focus on cooked options like tempura rolls (shrimp tempura maki is a favourite) or teriyaki chicken (a safe, filling dish). Dozo also offers vegetarian sushi, such as avocado maki, sweet potato tempura rolls, and kappa maki (cucumber). If you want to try something a bit more interesting but still mild, go for gunkan – seaweed wrapped around rice with toppings like spicy tuna or salmon roe. The texture is fun, and the flavour is gentle.

For those ready to dip a toe into raw fish, start with a salmon nigiri. Salmon is naturally fatty and buttery, so it's one of the most approachable raw options. Tuna is also good but has a firmer texture. Avoid anything with 'special' or 'chef's recommendation' unless you're feeling bold – those are usually the more inventive (and sometimes strange) combinations.

FAQ: Common Questions About Sushi Dining

Is it rude to use a fork at a sushi restaurant?

Not at all. Many Japanese restaurants provide forks for customers who aren't comfortable with chopsticks. The staff at Dozo are welcoming and won't judge. However, if you want to practise, start with a maki roll – it's easier to pick up than nigiri. You can also ask for a chopstick rest (hashioki) to keep them clean.

What's the difference between sushi, sashimi, and maki?

Sushi refers to vinegared rice combined with other ingredients; it can be raw or cooked. Sashimi is thinly sliced raw fish served without rice. Maki is a type of sushi where rice and fillings are rolled in seaweed (nori) and sliced into rounds. At Dozo, you'll find all three on the menu. If you're not sure, go for sushi or maki – sashimi is a step further because it's just fish.

How much should I order for one person?

A good rule of thumb is 6-8 pieces of sushi per person as a main, plus a starter. Sets are a safe bet; they usually include miso soup, salad, and a selection of sushi. If you're hungry, you can always order more. Dozo's portions are generous, so you likely won't need a huge amount.

Is it okay to mix wasabi into my soy sauce?

In high-end sushi bars, purists might frown upon it – they prefer you use a tiny amount of wasabi on the fish itself. But in a casual restaurant like Dozo, it's perfectly acceptable. Just don't do it if you're at the sushi counter – the chef has already seasoned the sushi. A small dish of soy with a dab of wasabi is fine for most rolls.

Making a Reservation and Getting There

Dozo Soho is at 32 Old Compton St, London W1D 4TP. It's a popular spot, especially in the evenings and on weekends, so booking ahead is recommended. You can reserve by phone on 020 7434 3219 or through their website. The nearest tube stations are Leicester Square (Northern/Piccadilly lines) and Tottenham Court Road (Central/Northern lines) – both are about five minutes' walk. From Leicester Square, head up Wardour Street, turn onto Old Compton Street, and you'll find it on your left. If you're driving, good luck – but there's a car park on Soho Square if you must.

Dozo also has a branch in Knightsbridge, but the Soho original has more character. During summer, they open the front windows so you can watch the street. It's a good spot for people-watching while you eat.

Final Tips for Your First Visit

• Go for lunch – Dozo offers a lunch menu that's often lighter on the wallet and less busy. The set lunch deals are particularly good value, often under £15.
• Try the drinks – they have a good selection of Japanese beers (Asahi, Sapporo), sake (hot or cold), and soft drinks like ramune (Japanese soda). A cold sake can really complement your meal – ask the staff for a recommendation.
• Take your time – sushi is meant to be enjoyed slowly. Don't rush. Between courses, sip your tea or drink, and chat. The pace of a sushi meal is leisurely.
• Check the specials board – Dozo often has daily specials written on a blackboard. It might be something like yellowtail sashimi or a seasonal roll. It's worth a look.
• Ask for the bill when you're ready – in Japan, it's considered rude to call for the waiter; you wave your hand slightly. But at Dozo, it's fine to just say "excuse me" or make eye contact. They'll bring it when you ask.

Ready to give it a go? Check out their menu for Dozo Soho online to see what catches your eye. Whether you're a complete novice or just looking for a reliable spot for sushi in Soho, Dozo on Old Compton Street is a welcoming choice. Book a table and enjoy your first taste of Japanese dining in London. And remember: the more you eat, the more you'll want to come back.