Suzu

Suzu may be off Hammersmith’s main strip, but it’s rarely short of customers. By day, local office workers make the most of reasonably priced set meals and takeaway sushi selections; by night, west London residents (including plenty of expats) come to unwind in the dinky dining room. Decked out in black and white, the space features rather idiosyncratic decoration – anime models, old film posters – giving it the feel of a family restaurant.

The menu contains much of the Japanese repertoire, from salmon teriyaki to ramen noodle soup and katsu curry, but the sushi and sashimi selection deserves special attention. You won’t find flabby fish here, as Suzu sources only the best from fishmonger-cum-sushi shop Atariya. The nigiri are just a little smaller than average, but the rice in our sea bream nigiri was pearlescent, with just the right amount of bite; the fish too was firm and shiny.

A hand roll encasing a sweet-fleshed prawn in a light tempura batter proved just as good. From the evening tapas menu, a plate of takoyaki (octopus balls) was less exciting, having slightly claggy batter. For a convivial evening, try sampling some shochu: there are a few to work your way through here. Be warned though, it’s strong.