Sushi models, also known as “nyotaimori,” are individuals—traditionally women, but sometimes men—who serve as living platters for sushi at special events or upscale dinners. In this practice, sushi is artfully arranged on the nude or nearly nude body of the model, who must remain perfectly still and silent throughout the meal. The sushi is typically placed on sanitized leaves or other barriers to prevent direct contact between the food and the skin, ensuring both hygiene and presentation. This form of dining is considered a blend of art, sensuality, and culinary experience, with roots in Japanese culture but now found at exclusive events and parties worldwide.
Sushi models are trained to maintain a specific pose and remain as still as possible, regardless of any sensations they might feel, including being tickled. The expectation is for the model to remain motionless and not interact with guests, even if the situation might be ticklish. Professionalism and discipline are key, and guests are expected to behave respectfully and not intentionally try to tickle or disturb the model.
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Can sushi models be tickled?
The New York Times article “Dinner Etiquette 101: Please Don’t Tickle the Sushi Model” profiles the business of Nyotaimori, a company that provides sushi served on the bodies of male and female models—a practice known as nyotaimori, or “female body arrangement” in Japanese. The article discusses the etiquette expected at these events, emphasizing that guests should behave respectfully and, specifically, should not tickle the sushi models. The models are paid professionals who are required to remain still and composed while sushi is artfully arranged and served on their bodies, making the experience both a performance and a unique dining event.
Tickling scenes featuring sushi models
Poland Got Talent
A body sushi restaurant decided to get some extra publicity by entering the Poland Got Talent competition. They gave their performance and then the co-host entered the stage to do some cootchie-coo at the model’s expense.
The girl tries to keep a straight face but at one point starts laughing vigorously. The shot focuses on her face filming the hilarious reaction, on her tickled feet, and on her body, which is forced to remain motionless. An announcer calls the presenters to order while the audience laughs amused by the scene.














Орёл и Решка (Oryol i Reshka)
A Russian show called “Орёл и Решка” sees the host named Lesia Nikitiuk at a sushi restaurant. She tries to talk to the sushi model, but the model is not supposed to talk to the guest. Bored by that silence, Lesia uses the chopsticks to tickle the model on her sides and then on her soles. The sushi model cracks up and begins to laugh.












