A sushi restaurant in northern British Columbia has been attracting attention recently, not just for its selection of reasonably priced sushi rolls but for a straightforward disclaimer displayed on its front door.
The sign boldly states, “We never serve extra soy sauce, rude people, intoxicated people,” with the mention of extra soy sauce highlighted in red. This policy has sparked amusement in the local community, with social media users joking about bringing their own soy sauce packets.
Owner Philip Kim of Sushi J defended his stance on not providing extra soy sauce, emphasizing that chefs often have strong opinions on the matter but may not express them to customers. Kim, however, prioritizes serving his food correctly and believes that excessive soy sauce can overpower the flavors he carefully crafts in his dishes.
Kim, who has dedicated two decades to perfecting his sushi-making skills, argues that soy sauce, being high in salt content, can be detrimental to health if consumed excessively. He likened it to drinking seawater and expressed his concern for his customers’ well-being by avoiding the provision of additional soy sauce.
While some may perceive Kim’s policy as strict, he clarified that it is not about cost but rather about maintaining the integrity of his food and ensuring customer health. Despite assertions that he would not provide extra soy sauce even for a substantial payment, Kim remains firm in his decision.
Sommelier and food and wine columnist Shiva Reddy commended Sushi J for clearly outlining its policies upfront, suggesting that customers who prefer extra soy sauce can explore other dining options. Reddy emphasized the importance of respecting restaurant rules and not demanding special treatment as a customer.