Sushi is more than just a meal; it’s a culinary experience! At Khon’s on Palafox, the best traditional sushi bar in Pensacola, we believe that the right drink pairing elevates the flavors of each sushi bite. That’s why we have a full bar menu with alcoholic drinks and non-alcoholic drinks.

Whether you prefer something light, robust, fizzy or flat, there’s an ideal drink to accompany your sushi. So, what drink goes best with sushi? 

Let’s explore some perfect pairings and answer common questions, like what wine to drink with sushi and what to drink with sushi non-alcoholic:

Wine and Sushi: A Match Made in Heaven

You might not think wine is a natural fit for sushi, but the right wine can truly enhance the dining experience. The key to pairing wine with sushi is balance. You want a wine that complements the delicate flavors of the fish without overpowering them.

At Khon’s, our Whitehaven Sauvignon Blanc is an excellent choice. Its crisp, citrusy notes and slight acidity make it a perfect partner for lighter sushi options like sashimi or nigiri. The fresh, clean finish of this Sauvignon Blanc cuts through the richness of the fish, leaving a refreshing aftertaste.

For those who prefer a more robust flavor, Kendall-Jackson Chardonnay pairs well with sushi that includes creamy elements, like rolls with avocado or spicy mayo. This Chardonnay’s oaky finish and subtle fruit notes blend beautifully with the richness of these ingredients without overwhelming the palate.

If you’re asking, what wine to drink with sushi? The answer lies in balancing acidity and sweetness. Light white wines like these are ideal because they highlight the intricate flavors of sushi without overpowering the dish.

Sake: The Classic Sushi Companion

No sushi experience would be complete without sake. At Khon’s on Palafox, we offer an exceptional Ozeki Nigori sake, which pairs beautifully with various sushi types. 

Nigori is an unfiltered sake with a rich, slightly sweet flavor that complements both fresh sashimi and more complex rolls like our specialty Volcano Roll. The sweetness balances out the salty, umami flavors, creating an extraordinary flavor profile.

For those seeking a smoother, less sweet option, our Junmai Daiginjo sake is a premium choice. It has a clean, refined taste with subtle fruity notes, which makes it a versatile pairing for most sushi dishes, especially delicate fish like tuna or yellowtail.

Cocktails and Beer: A Fun Twist on Pairing

For those who prefer cocktails, Khon’s bar menu offers a selection of creative drinks that pair well with sushi. 

• Our Kyoto Mule, made with Suntory Toki whisky, ginger beer, and lime, is a delightful cocktail that brings a spicy, citrusy twist. It pairs well with sushi rolls that have a bit of heat, like a spicy tuna roll or the fiery Jalapeño Roll. The ginger in the mule enhances the heat in the roll, while the whisky’s smoothness balances the spice.
• Beer enthusiasts can enjoy Sapporo Premium Lager, a light and crisp Japanese beer that’s made for sushi. Its subtle bitterness enhances the freshness of the fish while providing a refreshing counterpoint to the saltiness of soy sauce or the richness of sushi rice.

Non-Alcoholic Options: Refreshing and Flavorful

If you don’t drink alcohol, or you’re heading back to work after lunch, we have refreshing options for you too!

• A perfect sushi pairing is Fever-Tree Ginger Beer. Its spicy ginger kick adds a layer of complexity to sushi dishes without overpowering them. This non-alcoholic beverage pairs especially well with rolls featuring pickled ginger or wasabi, as the flavors mirror each other in a harmonious way.
• Another great non-alcoholic choice is San Pellegrino Sparkling Water, which cleanses the palate between bites of sushi. Its gentle bubbles and slight mineral taste help refresh your taste buds, allowing you to enjoy each sushi roll with renewed appreciation.

You can’t go wrong with sushi and drinks!

Sushi is a celebration of flavor, and the right drink pairing only enhances the experience. Whether you’re exploring what wine to drink with sushi, craving a classic sake pairing, or seeking what to drink with sushi non-alcoholic, there’s something on our menu for everyone. 

From the crispness of a Sauvignon Blanc to the complex flavors of Nigori sake or the refreshing burst of Fever-Tree Ginger Beer, the right drink will elevate your sushi dining experience to new heights.

Next time you visit Khon’s, experiment with different pairings and discover the perfect drink to complement your sushi selection. Let us know which pairing is your favorite! Cheers to good company, exquisite sushi, and the perfect drink.

Come visit us for fresh sushi in Downtown Pensacola! Check out our menu, see some of our mouth-watering dishes, learn more about the basics of sushi, and most importantly – order now! 

There’s always a spot for you at Khon’s.