In 2017, ex-Nobu London Head Chef Scott Hallsworth cut ties with his previous izayaka restaurant group, Kurobuta, to start something new on his own: The Freak Scene. What began as a pop-up, celebrating sushi and robata has grown into a two-restaurant, independent chain first opening in Parsons Green and now landing in the South London foodie hotspot of Balham.
The intimate space features mostly tables of two and a few stylish bar seats at the back of the restaurant, close to the partly-open kitchen. As you might have guessed, the vibe is Japanese-inspired with sleek design elements and nods to natural materials with an edge.
If you wondered where the restaurant got its name from, look to the food. Across the menu you'll find unusual concoctions and the merging of contrasting cuisines and cultures, with a Frankenstein-esque feel. First off, why not start with some small plates to get a flavour of what's to come? We like the look of the salt-grilled mackerel on grilled pumpkin mochi toasts, alongside crispy Masterstock lamb ribs.
If sushi is your thing, you have to try the sushi tacos served with truffle ponzu and shallot salsa, which come with options of tuna, salmon and yellowtail. There's also Singapore chilli crab Californian rolls, and the Freak Scene Special with tempura shrimp and Hamachi which is a must.
Moving on and dishes cooked using the wood fired oven and Robata experiment with a mix of East Asian flavours with delicious-sounding results. Take the grilled Shetland squid with Jalapeno dressing and onion salsa, alongside pork belly lettuce cups with pineapple sambal and pickled mussels. Personally, we can't wait to try the duck red curry donut buns and foil-baked garlic mushrooms with sake, soy and butter.
Now that you're excited to get your Freak Scene on, do make sure you book ahead to avoid dissapointment. Due to the size of the restaurant spaces are limited, so be sure to grab a table online beforehand.