It sounds like it could be a new poker tournament format, but in fact it's one of my loves in life which many of you know...food. I always try to visit new and interesting places to dine when I travel, and Sushi Samba was always on the "to do" list. At the risk of sounding like a poor man's Jay Rayner, read on.
I've always been more a fan of Sashimi (simply raw fish) than actual Sushi (raw fish rolled in rice with other ingredients), but am always up for trying new things, as many an ex will attest. In the higher end places of course it's almost expected for food and service to be of the best quality, and whilst I'd argue that from a food standard, the US and UK are certainly on a par with one another, I think on balance over time, I have to concede that Americans in general offer a better dining experience, a higher lever of customer service, and take more pride in having a good reputation for their brand. That's not to say the English don't, it's just noticeable to me that these guys go the extra mile. I visit in the evening during a busy service having booked previously.
The restaurant is buzzing, the atmosphere is warm and upbeat with music and decor. I'd say with my funny English accent it'd be hard work having a long conversation here over dinner, but we came to eat, not to talk anyway. So...now, onto the food!
I've always been more a fan of Sashimi (simply raw fish) than actual Sushi (raw fish rolled in rice with other ingredients), but am always up for trying new things, as many an ex will attest. In the higher end places of course it's almost expected for food and service to be of the best quality, and whilst I'd argue that from a food standard, the US and UK are certainly on a par with one another, I think on balance over time, I have to concede that Americans in general offer a better dining experience, a higher lever of customer service, and take more pride in having a good reputation for their brand. That's not to say the English don't, it's just noticeable to me that these guys go the extra mile. I visit in the evening during a busy service having booked previously.
The restaurant is buzzing, the atmosphere is warm and upbeat with music and decor. I'd say with my funny English accent it'd be hard work having a long conversation here over dinner, but we came to eat, not to talk anyway. So...now, onto the food!
A small bite of a scallop appetiser to get me going, along with a Lychee cooler to drink. Appetiser was just a bite, sweet and crisp, and the cocktail was a nice mix of coconut, Lychee, Vodka and Vanilla. Derek Trotter would be proud of me.
Duck breast with Sansho pepper vinaigrette, mushroom Tobanyaki, and a poached egg. I'm happy with duck being served pink, and it was a nice mix of taste and texture, with the broth and the mushrooms. The egg added richness. If I'm honest, this dish could have been a meal all by itself, but I had starved myself, so pressed onwards.
Tempura shrimp with dips. Batter light and crisp, shrimp not overcooked, and dips an interesting slant on the normal soy or sweet chilli.
Tuna Sashimi with a REALLY sharp (but delicious) Granny Smith apple puree and jalapeno. I love Sashimi, but of course it has to be done right, and this was great.
The food was superb, and exceeded my expectations. I tried to go for a mix of different things in my selections. Everything was stylishly presented, and cooked (or prepared if raw!) with every attention to detail. My server and all staff I encountered were very laid back and helpful.
I want to thank the lovely Meagan from Orange Brands Management (the company that oversees operations for Sushi Samba) for our communication, and also Michael and Yasbert (restaurant manager and bar manager respectively at the Las Vegas location). My encounters with all were above and beyond helpful and professional, and from the minimal commercial catering experience I've had, I know that dealing with customers, and keeping things ticking over when super busy is not an easy ask. Whilst the people who know me are aware I can be super critical of both food and eateries, my visit to Sushi Samba passed with flying colours, and I'll certainly be returning there soon.
The food was superb, and exceeded my expectations. I tried to go for a mix of different things in my selections. Everything was stylishly presented, and cooked (or prepared if raw!) with every attention to detail. My server and all staff I encountered were very laid back and helpful.
I want to thank the lovely Meagan from Orange Brands Management (the company that oversees operations for Sushi Samba) for our communication, and also Michael and Yasbert (restaurant manager and bar manager respectively at the Las Vegas location). My encounters with all were above and beyond helpful and professional, and from the minimal commercial catering experience I've had, I know that dealing with customers, and keeping things ticking over when super busy is not an easy ask. Whilst the people who know me are aware I can be super critical of both food and eateries, my visit to Sushi Samba passed with flying colours, and I'll certainly be returning there soon.
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