Each nigiri has its own distinctive look and each day it changes. The nigiri has a clients side, and a chefs side. This is something interesting given the fish or shellfish has a back and front – makes sense right? Yes it does given the thumb of the chef is controlling the action, and without a thumb there is no sushi. Below is front photo one and the back photo two. You’ll note the cut is on the front side and when you place the akagai into your mouth, you have the help of the knife scores.