Yoshino

After reading a lot of good reviews, I went there yesterday to check this place out myself. The place itself isn't very big and not too cosy as well, more like a diner. The staff is very polite, but unfortunately when I asked them a few questions about the sushi they have, they couldn't answer it. Now about the portions, I don't know actually what is the traditional portion of sushi roll in Japan, but usually when you make a roll and cut it into pieces, you get 6 pieces if it's a regular maki, or 8 pieces if it's a uramaki. Unfortunately in this place you get only 3 pieces per portion. I went there with a friend. Ordered two portions of ebi tempura (3pcs per portion), two portions of sushi with salmon (3pcs per portion), two with spicy tuna (3pcs per portion), some kind of big roll, green tea and an apple juice. The sushi was not too bad, just a bit loose, that means the roll wasn't rolled tight enough. Rice could have been fresher as well. The fried prawns were in a nice color, but with too much of batter (personally I prefer when prawns are just with a little of batter and covered with bread crumbs). Finally the "big" roll. This was a real disappointment. What we got was a thin slice of a big roll, cut into quarters. You couldn't even take it with a chopsticks, because it crumbled straight away. Paid for everything 55£ including the service charge of 7£ as I remember. I'd say a bit pricey, what do you think?

yoshino used to run the basement take-out sushi counter at the old japan centre on piccadilly, where the lunchtime queue would extend up the stairs. fantastic quality and great value - which guaranteed fresh sushi due to the high turnover. the restaurant is tucked down an alleyway which make it feel like an authentic secret spot. whilst excellent for good-value japanese in that spot of town, the best thing about yoshino is the take-out sushi and sashimi at lunchtime. though portions (and price points - yoshino opted to cut prices and reduce the serving size) have shrunk in the past few months, the friendly, cheerful staff make the food even more enjoyable. you get the same warm welcome regardless of if you're buying a small £2 snack or the lunch order for an entire department.

I'll never trust a time out review again! 4 stars is absolutely ridiculous. The restaurant is ultra bright, with spotlights blaring down on each individual table. The food is average at best, and horrendously overpriced for what the diner receives. The only saving grace is the friendliness and attentiveness of the staff, but for the money you can get a lot better in this city. 2 stars is pushing it.