There could never be too many sushi restaurants in Cape Town, the demand is too great. What sets good sushi apart from great sushi is imaginative dishes with simple ingredients.
A new restaurant in Century City, Akiya Sushi, has exactly this alluring quality in high dosages. If you frequent Canal Walk you will be familiar with Akiya Sushi, their new restaurant is an extension of the brand with a view of Table Mountain and an exciting fusion menu.
The decor is Japanese-themed with bamboo trimmings and light flooring paired with dark wood seating and green accents. There are larger tables for families to gather for meals and high-stool seating for a quick lunchtime escape. Situated in the heart of the business district, the eatery has considered their clientele and included charging stations.
The real star is the food options, the menu is an eclectic mix of Japanese and Chinese dishes, proving that you can have your noodles and slurp them too.
It’s a cold day in Cape Town, the perfect weather for a hot bowl of happiness, otherwise known as Hot and Sour Soup (R61). There is something sincerely therapeutic about this hearty soup fashioned from the hands of a professional. It’s the kind that makes you feel warm and fuzzy inside, that family recipe everyone wants to get their hands on.
Other soup options are the miso (R66) and corn and chicken soup (R61). Appetizers vary from spring rolls to dim sum, all reasonably priced under R80.
Sushi-lovers are in for a real treat. For your standard order of nigiri, fashion sandwiches and California rolls, prices range from R45 – R70. If your sushi palate is in the mood for an adventure I strongly suggest the crispy rice (R75 for 4 pieces), sushi rice that has been charred a little to add a smokey flavour then topped with a spicy salmon or tuna tartare, seven spices, teriyaki sauce, fired leeks and bits of tempura. If that sounds like a mouthful, trust me, it is. The flavours ping-pong off each other to create a taste explosion.
Another dish you MUST try is the new-style sashimi. Salmon or tuna is thinly sliced and smothered in a jalapeño-ponzu dressing topped with garlic, chili, ginger, onion, and sesame oil. It is a balanced taste, and a textural and trendy dish. Each sliver of fish disintegrates quickly under the pungent flavours and crunchy elements.
The Chinese menu is extensive, and from the firm favourites of chicken, beef or prawn stir-frys to fried rice and noodles, you’re bound to find what your heart and stomach desires.
The owners have tapped into what locals enjoy as sweet treats and offer a freshly-baked cake option, which might not be Asian enough but does hit the spot with an after-meal cappuccino. Authentic desserts are deep-friend banana with ice cream (R55) and mochi (a rice cake made of mochigome, water, sugar, and cornstarch).
Aside from the extensive menu, they offer a full coffee and tea bar option, as well as lounge seating if you’re waiting for your drink or just popping in for a quick bite.
As I made my way through the menu, I couldn’t fault any dishes; they were exactly what they said they were, with an extra touch of deliciousness. I can tell you more about the food, or you can try it and let me know what you think.
Contact: 021 110 5747
Address: Shop No. 5 Axis Building, 9 Bridgeway, Century City
Website: www.akiyasushi.com
Pictures: Nidha Narrandes and Facebook