Sushi Workshop Checklist

A sushi workshop runs smoothly when ingredients, equipment and participant information are ready before the first knife is used. Confirm dietary requirements early, book a suitable venue and check that each workstation has the same basic tools. Fresh fish needs chilled transport and storage, while sushi rice takes time to cook and season. Use this checklist to work through preparation, arrival, demonstrations and serving in the right order.

The plan, step by step

Every task with its own sub-checklist, in the order you'll actually need them.

Preparations

  • Invite participants

  • Register sign-ups

  • Collect dietary requirements

  • Confirm participant list

  • Reserve workshop venue

  • Check cooking equipment

    2 people

  • Set up workstations

    2 people

  • Print the allergen list

  • Do the shopping

    2 people

  • Transport fresh fish chilled

    2 people

  • Chill drinks

  • Set out rice and dry goods

Event

  • Open venue

    2 people

  • Set up tables and chairs

    3 people

  • Set up workstations

    3 people

  • Wash and cut ingredients

    3 people

  • Cook sushi rice

    2 people

  • Season sushi rice

    2 people

  • Set up the reception desk

    2 people

  • Receive participants

    2 people

  • Explain handwashing and safety rules

  • Demonstrate sushi technique

  • Guide maki and uramaki

    3 people

  • Guide the nigiri and temaki

    3 people

  • Keep sushi chilled

    2 people

  • Cut and plate sushi

    3 people

  • Serve sushi and side dishes

    3 people

  • Refill drinks

  • Serve coffee and tea

  • Clean work tables between uses

    2 people

  • Pack leftovers safely

    2 people

Aftercare

  • Collect tableware and cooking utensils

    3 people

  • Wash Tableware and Cookware

    3 people

  • Clean workstations

    2 people

  • Sort and dispose of waste

    2 people

  • Clear tables and chairs

    3 people

  • Check the venue and lock up

    2 people

  • Return leftover materials

    2 people

What to bring

Grouped the way you'd shop for it, with quantities.

Furniture

  • Work tablesqty 5
  • Chairsqty 24
  • Buffet tableqty 2
  • Waste binsqty 3

Tableware

  • Sushi platesqty 24
  • Bowlsqty 24
  • Chopsticksqty 24
  • Coffee cupsqty 24
  • Drinking glassesqty 30

Kitchen

  • Sushi matsqty 12
  • Chef's knivesqty 12
  • Cutting boardsqty 12
  • Rice bowlsqty 12
  • Measuring cupsqty 6
  • Mixing bowlsqty 8
  • Serving spoonsqty 8
  • Kitchen tongsqty 6

Equipment

  • Rice cookersqty 4
  • Coolersqty 3
  • Ice packsqty 12
  • Kettlesqty 2
  • Hot platesqty 2
  • Presentation screen

Catering

  • Serving plattersqty 8
  • Sauce cupsqty 24
  • Water jugsqty 4
  • Thermos flasksqty 3
  • Groceries

Decorations

  • Name badgesqty 24
  • Allergen cardsqty 24
  • Menu Board

Cleaning

  • Washing-up tubsqty 3
  • Spongesqty 8
  • Microfiber clothsqty 12
  • Hand soap dispensersqty 3
  • Cold thermometersqty 3

Tips

  • Collect dietary requirements when people sign up, then print an allergen list before the workshop. Keep allergen cards visible at the reception desk and on the menu board.
  • Transport fresh fish in coolers with ice packs and keep it chilled until use. Do not leave it at room temperature while tables, chairs or workstations are being arranged.
  • Give yourself at least 60 minutes before doors open for furniture, workstations, ingredient preparation, rice cooking and the reception desk. Rice should be cooked and seasoned before the demonstration starts.
  • Set up one complete workstation per small group, including a sushi mat, chef’s knife, cutting board, rice bowl, measuring cup and mixing bowl. Matching stations prevent people from waiting for shared equipment.
  • Explain handwashing, knife safety and chilled storage before demonstrating maki and uramaki. Keep finished sushi chilled and serve drinks only after the food-safety briefing and setup are complete.

Frequently asked questions

How long does it take to organise a sushi workshop?
Start planning at least 2 to 3 weeks ahead so you can reserve the venue, invite participants and collect dietary requirements. Complete the shopping, equipment check and printed allergen information during the final 2 to 3 days.
How much time do I need to set up a sushi workshop?
Allow at least 60 minutes before participants arrive. This covers tables and chairs, workstations, ingredient preparation, cooking and seasoning the rice, chilled fish storage and the reception desk.
How do you keep sushi ingredients safe during a workshop?
Transport fresh fish in coolers with ice packs and keep it chilled until preparation. Keep completed sushi chilled as well, and avoid leaving fish or finished sushi at room temperature for longer than necessary.
What equipment does each sushi workshop station need?
Plan one sushi mat, chef’s knife, cutting board, rice bowl, measuring cup and mixing bowl per workstation. Add shared rice cookers, serving spoons and tongs only if participants can access them without interrupting the demonstration.

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