Wasabi
Wasabi is one of those rare restaurants which takes you
to another place as soon as you enter through the doors.
Outside, a neighbourhood of wonderful Victorian
houses; inside, you could well be in Japan. The décor
is slightly tongue in cheek, with a plethora of smiling
waving cats behind the bar area, but with a Japanese
essence throughout, blending modern canteen-style
eating with traditional lanterns (sit at the back, and you
can watch the chefs cook and prepare your food).
It’s not just about atmosphere here though – the food
is equally central to the whole experience. The top of
the Wasabi menu confidently states: ‘Japanese cuisine
is famous for its ability to delight and satisfy even the
most health- conscious diner.’
Wasabi has really taken this to heart. Indeed, eating
here is almost too good to be true. With food so light
(and small dishes starting at £1.90), its all too easy to
spend the entire evening here eating, eating, eating,
and never feel uncomfortably ‘full’. The menu has an
incredible variety of choice, that speaks not of a desire
to try to please everyone, but purely of the chefs’ ability.
If you’re a sushi fan, the only
diffi culty will be where to start
– though the 10 piece Nigiri
Sushi is highly recommended
(£10.80). If you’re not, there is
so much more, from vegetarian
Yaki Udon noodles to Teriyaki
Chicken. The ultimate all-rounder
has to be the Wasabi
Bento Box – a delightful
lacquered open box, with
separate compartments for Tuna
and Salmon Sashimi, Chicken
Teriyaki, Pork in Breadcrumbs,
Rice, Miso soup, Californian
Rolls – it could easily feed two
and only costs £12.90. Washed
down with crisp Japanese beer,
or warm sake in earthenware
beakers and cups, and finished
with fresh Japanese tea, neither
you or your wallet will leave
feeling empty.
Opening times:
Mon – Thu 12pm – 2:30pm,
5:30pm – 11pm
Fri – Sat 12pm – 11pm
Sunday and Bank holidays 12pm-
10:30pm
Wasabi
49 Uplands Crescent
Swansea
SA2 0NP
T: 01792 464999