Yoshino

If you weren't paying attention, you could easily miss Yoshino's neon sign, tucked away on a side alley just off Piccadilly. Downstairs, there's a sushi counter and a few small tables, but for a bit more refinement, head upstairs to the minimalist dining room.

Like the decor, the menu here is also pared down. There are à la carte options (tempura, sushi, grilled dishes and more), but set meals and platters are the main attraction.

For sashimi lovers, the chirashi sushi makes a good choice; the rice is served in a lacquer box topped with fine shreds of seaweed, omelette and mangetout, but not fish, which is on the side. Sushi assortments come scattered with seaweed flakes in both traditional and more Californian flavours.

Unlike some Japanese venues, Yoshino has some interesting desserts too, including green tea tiramisu (a little dry, in our opinion) and a tasty black sesame panna cotta.

For a change from saké, try the shochu, or choose from the small selection of wines and Japanese beer. High-quality fish and efficient service make this a great destination for a quick lunch (there's an express menu) or a leisurely dinner.