Amanda (20 January 2009)

I booked a table at Cafe Bukushi last week for my husband and me after googling sushi restaurants in my area. If at first a little confused by the sushi-New York deli concept, my fears were eased the moment I walked in the door. The ambience and décor is so relaxing and the restaurant manager was brilliantly welcoming. He talked us through the menu, and was full of recommendations - all of which turned out to be spot on. We started with a bottle of Pinot Grigio and some sparking mineral water - all opened at the table - a must for me. My husband decided to go for an all 'deli' night, and opted for the grandma’s chicken soup to start - a generous portion, certainly enough to ward off any sniffles. He then chose the Kobe steak burger, which was again enough to settle the most enormous appetites and cooked to his personal preference. This was served with a side of crisp French fries. I was so impressed with the Japanese menu that I chose bukushi edamame - the moorish green beans in garlic and black bean sauce, miso soup and a sushi mezze to start - all made fresh to order - the fish just melted in the mouth. I followed this by the waiter's recommendation of the black cod miso with steamed rice - the sweet, soft, succulent fish came at a really reasonable price compared to other places I have seen it. Although fit to burst we were persuaded to share a tableside campfire for dessert - a pot of melted chocolate with marshmallows and fruit for dipping - a nice light end to the meal. At the end of the meal we were given takeaway menus, they do delivery and collection seven days a week, and we have already ordered from home this week - the food arrived hot, on time and as delicious as it was in the restaurant. We will definitely be returning to Cafe Bukushi soon - perhaps in the Radlett branch for a change - with all the choice on the menu it would be rude not to.