Restaurant of the month
Among the current crop of newly opened eateries, London's Sushinho really does stand out from the crowd. The reason? It's all down to its very unusual fusion menu that marries Latin American and Japanese cuisine. It may sound a little unusual, but guess what? It works!
Sushinho is the creation of gourmand and world traveler, Oliver Girardet, who set out to open a very different type of dining and drinking destination on Chelsea's King's Road. The restaurant's name is a combination of the word "sushi" (obviously!) and the lesser known Brazilian/Portuguese suffix "-inho", which means diminutive, younger and smaller.
But that's enough language lessons. You want to know about the scrumptious food, don't you? Well, the menu blends Japanese, Brazilian and European fare to produce such exotic concoctions as sautéed lobster with chilli vinaigrette; miso salmon foie gras; and crispy pork belly with feijoda bean purée. Delicious!
Head chef Carlos Maia has worked extensively in both his native Brazil and London; most recently, he was senior chef at one of London's most respected Japanese restaurants.
Sushinho also boasts a fabulous bar and cocktail menu, including the famous Brazilian cocktail, Caipirinha. Several drinks are unique to the restaurant, including Sakeirinha (Caiprinha with Japanese saké instead of cachaça), plus the intriguing-sounding Gingerbread Slipper and super-refreshing Tropical Fruit Sling. Feeling thirsty yet?
And in keeping with the culinary theme of harmonious integration, Sushinho forgoes sushi bar-style conveyor belts and minimalism in favour of an inviting interior infused with warm, colourful tones and enlivened with a funky Brazilian beat.
'My overriding aim all along has been to breathe new, exotic life into London's sushi scene by combining a dynamic and elegant dining experience and exceptional service with welcoming, stimulating and warm surroundings,' Oliver explains.
To find out more or book a table, visit www.sushinho.com.
