Fusion brunch at SushiSan

A new Thursday offering for lovers of Japanese food

SushiSan’s new brunch comes with not one, but two USPs – it’s affordable all-youcan eat sushi, combined with unexpected ingredients, such as chicken nuggets.

The restaurant is cosy with intimate red leather booths, a sushi counter, bar area and several geisha murals adorning the walls.

SushiSan describes itself as a, “fusion of traditional authentic sushi techniques and modern creativity”, and the brunch hints at this by not merely offering sushi, and it’s a large offering that doesn’t disappoint – the wide buffet selection includes tempura, spring rolls, ramen soup and dishes such as the intriguing-sounding mini salmon burger packed with salmon, rice, crab sticks, seaweed salad and sesame seeds.

Mains are ordered to the table and featured eight varieties of maki rolls and three sashimi options presented on black slates. A highlight was the mucho bonito spicy tuna that had a kick to it (best avoided if you’re not a spice fan), but the beetroot maki roll – although presented beautifully – was slightly dry and the tuna sashimi wasn’t as fresh as the salmon sashimi.

On the day What’s On visited, the aforementioned chicken nugget rolls had recently been added to the menu as part of the maki rolls selection with the intention of ensuring the menu is not predictable. Served with fish, it was an unusual combination, one that we wouldn’t normally have paired together but the contrasting tastes was moreish.

In line with its creative ethos, don’t expect traditional offerings for desserts but SushiSan does nod to Japan by hinting at Asian flavours. A highlight was the green tea crème brulee and the coconut truffle – both delivered on taste and presentation.

The team were friendly, warm and attentive and they seemed genuinely passionate about ensuring guests have a good time. The bar team were particularly good during What’s On’s visit – they were able to talk about their beverages in detail, and even did a live demonstration.

SushiSan is good value (you can fill up for Dhs250 including Japanese beverages, cocktails and mixed drinks) and you can order unlimited sushi for four hours. Overall, the grub is of decent standard although the menu won’t blow you away. But if you’re looking for a casual brunch with unlimited sushi, this is just the ticket.

Holiday Inn Abu Dhabi, Airport Road, Abu Dhabi, Thur 6.30pm to 10.30pm, Dhs185 (soft), Dhs250 (house). Tel: (800) 78744726. Taxi: Airport Road. sushisan.ae