Sushi: one of the greatest Japanese creations to have graced the Earth. But it’s not just about the flavour, it’s about the balance. The ratio of fish and rice has to be right in order to be considered “oishii” or delicious. So here are my top 5 recommendations of oishii sushi restaurants to help you start your journey.

1. Hare and Tortoise

Hare and Tortoise serve some of the most delicious Asian flavours, from Chinese, Malaysian and Japanese cuisines. They have everything you need for a great meal out at very affordable prices. One of the best sushi rolls they have is the Dragon Roll - an inside out seaweed roll with tempura prawns, cucumber and mayonnaise, dressed with tobiko. It’s so simple yet so tasty. The tempura is crunchy and flavourful and all the ingredients taste so fresh, blanketed by the flavourful rice it’s a combo made in heaven.

2. Kulu Kulu Sushi

Not only is the name super cool, the sushi is super cool & tasty too. Located in Covent Garden, Kulu Kulu is a no-nonsense sushi joint that feels homely and cosy. It’s small but the sushi makes a giant impression. Served on a conveyor belt, you pick the sushi you want or you can get dishes made to order. This place is perfect if you want a good meal at budget-friendly prices. Plates start from £1.90, plus you get free unlimited Japanese green tea! The salmon skin cut rolls are my favourite.

3. Itsu

Okay hear me out on this one. Yes, Itsu is a chain sushi store but they serve some of the best salmon sushi sets than any other “fast-food sushi chains”. Their salmon tastes fresh and creamy- it almost melts in your mouth, for under £5 it is a steal. What’s better, students get 15% off Monday-Friday after 3pm. You can also get 50% off all food one hour before closing at most Itsu stores.

4. Sticks ‘n’ Sushi

If you’re looking to treat yourself and make a night of it, Sticks n Sushi is your place. They offer unique dishes with a blend of Danish and Japanese flavours. Their dishes have fun names, taste delicious and the atmosphere in the restaurants are always great. £12.50 for 8 pieces, the salmon ceviche is a unique combo of salmon, avocado, cucumber, red onion, coriander and lime. Fresh, tangy and creamy it will leave you wanting more. Another recommended is Hell’s Kitchen with tempura shrimp, tuna, avocado and barbeque sauce.

5. Pham Sushi

Easily one of my favourite sushi joints in the entirety of London! The sushi here is absolutely divine. The rice is flavourful and the rice to fish ratio is, in my humble opinion, perfect. They offer some very interesting flavours and rolls. One of the most popular and tastiest roll is the crunchy tuna roll- a MUST try for anyone visiting. All of the dishes taste so fresh and the white fish especially is beautifully creamy and delicious. Pham sushi is a must-go for anyone looking to have some great sushi rolls at even better prices.

Words: Priya Giri