As you may have noticed in Japanese restaurants, aesthetics is every bit as important as taste, so a beautiful presentation is just as essential as creating tasty sushi. For some reason, sushi seems to taste better when served on traditional sushi plates, so it is worth investing in these. Sushi is usually served with a dollop of wasabi and a small bowl of soy sauce for dipping. Pickled ginger is a popular accompaniment, but Japanese use it for clearing the palate between sushi varieties rather than as a condiment. Miso soup, made from soy paste, is a popular starter, and many people enjoy sushi with rice wine, served warm or cold. Green tea is also a popular beverage and is usually drunk out of colorful, earthenware mugs without handles. Once you are used to making and serving sushi, it is likely to become not just a familiar meal, but a weekly event.