“Sakizuke” are appetizer and hors d'oeuvre dishes that are served first. These may be called Zensai (the most common term for “appetizer”), Kuchitori, Kobachi, Otoshi, Tsukidashi, Kozuke, Hashizuke, Hashiwari, Zakana or Zatsuki Zakana, and are served before the meal to accompany the aperitif. You will see combinations of 3 to 7 types of bounties from the sea and mountains. Sakizuke will showcase the beauty of the seasons not just with the ingredients, but also in the presentation and serving dishes, often in elaborate displays that are also visually pleasing. The flavors are light, to give you a preview of the dishes to come without being overstimulating. Start with pieces that are easy to pick up with your chopsticks, without disturbing the display.