Etsu’s modern, crisp interiors go some way to giving you a taste of the menu before you even order. The functional plain wooden tables and chairs paired with Japanese artworks and globe lights give a distinctive far Eastern feel without anything becoming too fussy.
The focus here is very much on the food, which is a welcome mix of classics as well as some more unusual serves. To start, begin with soups, salads and pickles for a traditional take on Japanese dining. Miso is of course on the menu, while there’s also a clear suimono soup which is made with king prawns, wakame and veg for a slightly more robust serve. If eating in a group, choose a selection of appetisers to share – from edamame beans and tempura to deep fried tofu and pork tonkatsu – or enjoy one or two plates all to yourself for indulgent dining.
There is a whole host of main dishes to choose from come the evening (with a shorter selection at lunchtime which showcases bento boxes). Fish takes centre stage here with fresh sashimi grade tuna seared until just pink and served with a selection of sauces, or red mullet pan fried until crispy-skinned. Japanese curries and donburi bowls complete the picture offering up hearty fare that is perfect for filling up on come the cooler months.
Sushi fans shouldn’t be disappointed either, as there is a whole menu dedicated to these little parcels of fish and rice – although the selection runs far beyond this standard serve. Sparklingly fresh fish keeps customers coming back for more time and time again and has put Etsu on the map for locals and visitors alike.
Dave Abe, who set up Etsu, is passionate about the cuisine and works with three talented chefs to keep his restaurant’s fare current and contemporary.