Issho-Ni. London, UK

February 2020


I always find that the British Airways High Life magazine is a great source of inspiration for places to visit, both locally and further afield, and this is where I came across Issho-Ni.  An unassuming doorway in Bethnal Green leads in to what immediately feels like a 'cool' restaurant.  Cherry blossom and origami cranes hanging from the ceiling, and Japanese works of art occupying entire walls is a great contrast to the industrial, warehouse bones of the building.
The sushi is divine.  The Our Roll is filled with fresh salmon, tuna and seabass.  Crispy salmon skin adds crunch, truffle mayo gives a luxurious richness, and tobiko pops in the mouth.  This is an exciting dish, both texture and taste wise.







Next up was Squid Ink Yakisoba.  I love squid ink and often find squid ink products seem to be a little stingy with the squid ink.  There was definitely no stinginess here and, combined with the pungent crisped garlic, made the dish almost too rich.  The brininess of the squid ink did bring out the freshness of the squid and mussels to some extent, however they were overpowered.





I was intrigued by the dessert which promised plenty of Asian inspired flavours.  Poached pear was livened up with wasabi cream, citrusy yuzu sorbet cooled things down, and sesame brittle shards balanced it out with some sweetness.  Not only did the flavours work fantastically together, but I really enjoyed the contrast of the smooth wasabi cream with the snap of the sesame brittle, in this light, refreshing dessert.   
Find these innovative dishes and more at Issho-Ni in Bethnal Green, London.

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