I don’t know why, but I’ve always been slightly sceptical of Yo! Sushi, without any real reason. However, a few weeks ago I popped to my local branch to try a few of their new items and was happily surprised at how tasty their dishes were.
The first of the new menu items available at Yo! is Kakiage – the latest in tempura food. Rather than whole vegetables or seafood like the tempura we all know and love, the latest in Japanese street food takes thinly sliced vegetables, dips them in a light tempura batter, and fries them.
Yo!’s take on this is made from red onion, white onion, spring onion, aubergine and carrot, dipped in a batter made of flour and sparkling water which gives a sweet, light and crisp finish. This is served with a zingy Harusame sauce, and makes a great lunch-time dish.
The other new item on the menu is Kyoko Real Green Tea – a chilled Japanese green tea which has, apparently, taken Japan by storm. They say unlike the hot tea it has no earthy taste but, I would disagree. However, the slight sweetness that comes with the cold brew does off-set it slightly, creating a milder tasting drink. I found it to be very enjoyable – but I love green tea anyway.
There were a few other dishes that came round on the conveyor belt that aren’t new but, definitely deserve a special mention.
The Salmon Selection plate included a feast of perfectly soft and tasty salmon, including Salmon Maki rolls made with fresh salmon and wasabi, salmon sashimi and salmon sushi. Eaten alongside the Albacore Truffle Ponzu Sashimi – lightly seared tuna with a truffle ponzu dressing – made a great lunchtime feast.
Finally, the Beef and Garlic Teriyaki. I feel like this dish will forever hold a special place in my heart. Crispy slices of beef coated in a sweet, tangy, tasty, sticky garlic and soy sauce, all garnished with fresh chilli for a spicy kick. I would go back just for this dish.
I’m glad I went in to try the Kakiage, as it has definitely changed my perception of Yo! Sushi and for a speedy and tasty lunch, I’ll be heading back.