SUSHISAMBA sits atop the historic Market Building in Covent Garden.
SUSHISAMBA has a sky high Liverpool Street restaurant on the 38th and 39th floors of the Heron Tower that’s been a raging success since opening its doors in 2012, but they opened a second London spot in the heart of Covent Garden in November 2018, and we might just dare to say that’s it’s the prettier spot…
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Their Covent Garden home is based on the same unique blend of Japanese, Brazilian and Peruvian culture and cuisine as SUSHISAMBA’s other restaurants – and, of course, the space does not come without a signature SUSHISAMBA spiral staircases. The restaurant, which sits within the famous Opera Terrace, runs along the entire east side of the market, meaning guests can enjoy stunning views across the piazza.
The East Opera Terrace was originally home to a number of glasshouses where exotic plants were sold, so, in honour of its history, there’s a beautiful ceiling installation featuring South American and Japanese plants. You’ll also find a bespoke light installation above the sushi bar, as well as a theatre-style open kitchen and an incredible red marble counter.
So, what’s the menu like?
There is, of course, a chance to try some of the restaurant chain’s signature dishes, such as the Brazilian Churrasco Rio Grande (ribeye, chorizo and aged picanha), the Moqueca Mista (a seafood stew with coconut and lime), and plenty of Japanese sushi and sashimi. And there are also some dishes that are specific to the Covent Garden branch, including Pork Belly with butterscotch miso and Scallops with vanilla, jalapeño, mango and aji amarillo.
I personally recommend the Yuca Plantation, a bizarre and beautiful dish that will surprise your senses in the best possible way; the Mushroom Tobanyaki made with Japanese mushrooms and a poached egg; and, for dessert, the Welcome To The Rainforest made with Asháninka coffee and chocolate.
What about the drinks?
You can expect a ridiculously large selection of sake at SUSHISAMBA, as well as some Japanese whiskies and an excellent menu of signature cocktails. Try the Tom Yam, a fiery creation made with vodka, coriander, ginger, lime and chilli, or the Lychee Cooler with vodka, lychee, coconut milk, vanilla and elderflower.
Location: 35 The Market, WC2E 8RF. Nearest station is Covent Garden. See it on Google Maps.
Opening hours: Monday to Thursday, 11:30am-12:30am. Friday and Saturday, 11:30am-1am. Sundays, 11:30am-11:30pm. A pre-theatre menu is available from 5pm to 6.30pm all week.
Bookings: you can make a reservation here.
More information: from their website.