Sushi, the piquant Japanese culinary masterpiece, has not just been a meal but a cultural phenomenon that has transcended geographical boundaries and gastronomical preferences. It is a delicate symphony of flavors, a rich historical tapestry of culinary traditions, and a testament to the meticulous Japanese craftsmanship. Before delving into the four crucial elements that would have benefited my inaugural sushi dining experience, it is essential to understand sushi's etymology and the cultural significance attached to it.

Sushi originates from an ancient preservation technique where fermented rice was used to store fish. The term 'sushi' literally translates to 'it's sour,' referring to the tangy fermented rice. This intricate gastronomic art has evolved over centuries and now represents a unique dining experience that draws millions to sushi restaurants worldwide.

Firstly, the importance of seasons or 'shun' in Japanese cannot be overstated in the sushi-making process. Japanese gastronomy is deeply intertwined with the changing seasons, and sushi is no exception. The Nihon Shoki, the second-oldest book of classical Japanese history, describes how the changing seasons influence the taste and texture of fish, affecting the sushi's overall flavor profile. In the same vein, a certain level of cognizance about seasonality can enhance your sushi dining experience, allowing you to savor sushi at its seasonal best.

Secondly, sushi is more than just a seafood-roll; it's a broad spectrum of flavors, textures, and styles. Understanding this diversity is key to appreciating your sushi dining experience. Nigiri, Maki, Sashimi, Temaki, Uramaki - these are just a few of the numerous styles in which sushi is served. Each has its distinct flavor profile, presentation, and method of consumption. It's a veritable Pandora's box of gastronomical delights, and knowing what to expect can allow you to make informed decisions while ordering.

The third aspect pertains to the sushi bar's ambience and etiquette. While the western-style dining promotes a convivial atmosphere, traditional sushi dining is more of a reverent experience. The sushi bar, or the 'sushi-ya,' is a place where the 'Itamae' (sushi chef) showcases his skills with a level of precision and artistry that commands respect. Following sushi etiquette, such as not dousing your sushi in soy sauce or using your hands to eat nigiri, is as much a part of the dining experience as the food itself.

Lastly, the price tag associated with a sushi dining experience can be rather exorbitant. This steep cost is primarily attributed to the high-quality ingredients, the chef's expertise, and the overall dining experience that a sushi restaurant offers. However, the law of diminishing marginal utility - a principle, in this case, suggesting that the satisfaction derived from consuming additional units of sushi decreases as one continues to consume it - might sometimes play a spoilsport. Therefore, it's prudent to remember that sushi, being a rich and intense experience, is best enjoyed in moderation.

In conclusion, dining at a sushi restaurant is a voyage of discovery that introduces you to the subtleties of Japanese cuisine and culture. It's a sensory delight that combines taste, texture, and aesthetics in a beautiful, harmonious ensemble. As with any new experience, a certain level of understanding and preparedness enriches the overall journey, making it a memory to cherish. The world of sushi, as with Chesterfield's time-honored wisdom, is a vast ocean in which there is always something new to discover.