We have become very accustomed to half price sushi here in Cape Town. The problem is that very often half the price, comes with half the quality. Many people don’t even realise what high quality sushi tastes like, and while living in ignorance may be good on the pocket – once you know, it is hard to un-know and go back to the “good ol’ days”.
Sushi I would propose to.
Kyoto Garden Sushi is a stylish 30-seater restaurant and bar in Gardens. This beautiful little spot in Gardens also has a private dining area that seats 10 adjacent to the main restaurant. They pride themselves on exceptional quality, authentic Japanese cooking.
I’m a lover of Bloody Marys, and theirs was one of the best I’ve ever had. The Asian Mary (R54) was flavourful and had a delicious Japanese twist as it was made with soya sauce, wasabi and lime.
To start we had beautifully cooked Scallops in a bowl of fragrant miso soup. (R85).
The Yellowtail Ceviche (R95) was incredible. Amazing, salty and fresh – both the ingredients themselves and the fresh sharpness of the lime. A small portion, which packed a whole lotta punch.
Seared salmon (R78) on a bed of seaweed and exotic mushrooms. Each element of this dish was delicious, but the dressing was very under-seasoned.
Then came the main course. Yes, that was just the starter.
The Chef Sushi Special (R135 for 12 pieces) was divine. As with all the food so far, it was simple and elegant. The fish was incredible. You don’t need fancy-shmancy seasoned, topped, crunched, dipped, sauced and prodded sushi when the fish is this good.
The Sauté Seafood Platter (R195 for two) tofu, oysters, scallops, exotic mushrooms, prawns, calamari and a langoustine, with fresh greens and green beans. A great combination of elements, each cooked and seasoned just right. We also had a portion of Salmon Roe Rice (R65) which was DIVINE rice topped with marinated mushrooms, salmon roe and baby spinach.
Lastly was dessert (all R55). The sweet Cherry Blossom Ice Cream topped with dark chocolate dipped goji berries was the perfect balance of sweet and bitter. The Green Tea Crepe served with vanilla ice cream and a sweet tea sauce was a brilliant surprise. The crepe itself was bright green with the earthy, yet mild tea flavour. Lastly came one of the most delicious ice creams I’m yet to come across: Black Sesame Ice Cream which was rich with a warmth that you don’t expect from ice cream.
The venue is gorgeous and the food is simple and well put together. Their staff are very attentive and knowledgeable. And yes, I realise that Kyoto isn’t cheap – but you know what? Not everything has to be.
PS: They have a special at the moment. 5 courses of Japanese cuisine (sushi, miso, tempura etc) AND a glass of wine for just R150. Everyday from 5:30pm-7:00pm.
