Yoshino

Maybe it’s the waitresses’ long, white, starched aprons; maybe it’s the clean, cool design inside (it’s certainly not the ugly mishmash of styles outside); or maybe it’s just the careful preparation that evidently goes into the food – somehow Yoshino manages to feel posher than its prices suggest. Five or six years ago the menu was varied and full of kanji script, to the point of mystification for some non-Japanese customers. Now, the fully explained dinner list mainly comprises bentos and some à la carte sushi. Sets vary in complexity from the Mini Yoshino to the Yuki no Zen, which deserves to be called the ‘Maxi’. The latter is a double-decker affair; lacquer compartments are stacked in order to accommodate sashimi, tempura, eel teriyaki, grilled mackerel, deep-fried tuna, pickles, spinach goma-ae (with a sesame dressing), potato salad, fried tofu and the dish of the day – green-lipped mussels and a jumbo prawn on our visit. All this is unarguably value for money at £19.80, but if your appetite isn’t huge, go for the bargain £7.80 Mini. You can also get Yoshino’s food to take away from the Japan Centre just down the road.

Time Out Eating & Drinking Guide 2008

Services:

Child facilities: Babies and children admitted

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