Moving away from sushi central (aka Thong Lor), this little Japanese place is injecting new energy into a dingy, once-popular community mall in Ekamai. Small, cosy and unfussed, Ebisu Sushi's bare walls and simple table settings reflect the owner's belief in showcasing quality food over fluff. The best view in the house is right in front of the counters, where you can watch sushi masters carefully preparing your dish, as well as take a peek at the fresh seafood on offer. The staff are well-trained, hospitable and can recommend dishes according to what fish are in season. Diners include young and hip locals, expats and Japanese families.
Ebisu Sushi
Japanese
5/1 Ekamai Soi 10, Sukhumvit Soi 63
Tue-Sun noon-10pm
087-719-1888
http://fb.com/ebisusushibangkok
THE MENU
Ebisu's extensive menu comprises sushi, sashimi, salads and hot dishes in generous portions, making them perfect for sharing. The Foie gras crunchy roll (B340) is served in five pieces and evidently is a crowd-pleaser, with its combination of fatty melt-in-your-mouth foie gras, creamy avocado and crunchy tempura bits. Sticking to the fusion style of maki, the Kimuchi roll (B280) packs a good punch with an interesting mix of salmon, cheese, avocado and spicy mayo. The rolls are far from bite-sized; like futomaki, they're rather hard to eat in one go, but are nonetheless satisfying. Fans of aburi (partially grilled) sushi should order the Black sushi (B360) set, which comprises salmon topped with mentaiko (cod roe) and spicy sauce; shrimp with tobiko (shrimp roe); freshwater eel brushed with teriyaki sauce; and foie gras. The rice is a little too soggy for our liking, but the flavours are well-balanced — especially for Thai palates, which are accustomed to a good dose of sweetness. The Otoro sushi (B480) is a must if you favour the buttery texture of prime-cut tuna belly. Opt for the Chutoro sushi (B340) if you prefer something a little meatier, with a bit more chew. On to the hot dishes: Kurobuta shio teriyaki (B180) is top-quality Japanese pork, lightly grilled with teriyaki sauce that evokes the signature savoury and succulent taste. The scallops in Hotate bata (B250) are cooked with mushrooms in a buttery sauce, giving the dish a nice earthy note. Be warned — it's served piping hot, meaning the best way to eat it is to pick up the scallop shells and just dig in. The restaurant offers every diner a complimentary dessert of cutesy fish-shaped jelly, filled with melon and pineapple. It tastes just about as good as it looks. Tea, coffee and soft drinks are available, but do ask your waiter for a sake recommendation.
INSIDER TIP
Can't get enough sushi? Keep dining here and collect points, which will earn you a membership card with endless benefits, such as 20 per cent off the menu during your birthday month and 50 per cent off selected dishes.
SOCIAL MEDIA MOMENTS
The artsy wall with Japanese calligraphy and a beautifully painted image of a comical character petting an enormous fish make a great backdrop for selfies, wefies and groupies.
VALUE & VERDICT
Although half of Thong Lor seems to be occupied by Japanese eateries, Ekamai could do with a few more, especially dainty establishments like this. While Ebisu Sushi's offerings won't necessarily blow your mind, the menu's variety, generous portions and reasonable prices should please even the most finicky diners. G
