Sushi Hiro (Ealing)
I actually visited Sushi Hiro almost two months ago so I’m busting it out from the archives now before my memory lets me down completely. My mate and I had been in West London for the Real Food Festival and thought it would be criminal not to ride the extra few stops out to Ealing to try this place we’d heard so many good things about.
From the outside, Sushi Hiro ain’t much to look at. In fact, you’d be forgiven for wondering if it’s even open* but a nervous peek round the door reveals otherwise. The interior is most definitely no frills – white walls, a few basic tables and a typical bar to the left behind which chefs busy themselves with the art of crafting what we would find out is some really decent sushi. The chefs were not the first thing which impressed about Sushi Hiro though (for their total, unwavering concentration and fastidiousness is very impressive), it was the fresh salty smack of sea scent (not fishyness), which hits you in the face as soon as you walk in. An unexpected but very welcome surprise from a teensy joint in Ealing.
We wolfed down the complementary edamame while perusing the menu and deciding upon a generous deluxe sushi plate each, which included amongst others mackerel, salmon, eel, belly tuna and scallop (about £16 I think). The fish was beautifully fresh, generously portioned and positively gleaming with eat-me factor. The sushi rice was slightly warm, which was new to me but seemed right and proper. As my mate and I are total pickle addicts, we had to order some pickled gourd and pickled radish maki. We reveled in their sweetness but I thought they might benefit from a touch more tang. I’m picky about pickles.
All in all, some great sushi, the best I’ve eaten in London so far. Despite the fact I’ve a fair few places yet to try I still feel that London is in need of more excellent examples like this one. Some more in Saaf East would be good too, thanks. People down here need sushi too you know.
1 Station Parade
Uxbridge Road
London
W5 3LD
0208 896 3175
*Opening Hours Tue-Sun 11:00-13:30 & 16:30-21:00
Category: Restaurant Reviews 17 comments »
June 29th, 2009 at 10:59 am
Complimentary edamame? That’s nice innit
June 29th, 2009 at 11:01 am
I love this place and you’ve reminded me that I’ve been meaning to go back soon!
June 29th, 2009 at 1:11 pm
The fish looks so fresh and pretty – like little pearls and opals…
June 29th, 2009 at 1:15 pm
oh yummy, Sushi Hiro is my favourite little sushi spot, and yeah, its the best I’ve eaten in London so far too
the belly tuna is silky smooth and the scallop is as sweet as ever (even though neither are cooked!).
Like Su-Lin you reminded me to go back soon to satisfy my sushi cravings
Been doing that alot with your blog, first the lobsters and now sushi!
June 29th, 2009 at 1:41 pm
Have heard so many good things about this place – must, must, must get over there soon. So glad you enjoyed it, Helen.
June 29th, 2009 at 3:02 pm
It is always like a goldmine to find a really good sushi place! Sounds like you found one of those Helen! I am sure the place with be luring you out there again in no time!
June 29th, 2009 at 5:02 pm
Even before reading your post, I knew from looking at the photos that I *have* to get to Sushi Hiro. Great write-up.
June 29th, 2009 at 10:12 pm
when i get my car.. I’ll be sure to drive down here… the trek fm where I live right now is just too far…
June 30th, 2009 at 8:59 am
That sushi looks brilliant – gorgeous photo. Love the complimentary edamame as well – every sushi place should do that!
June 30th, 2009 at 1:39 pm
The sushi certainly looked good! Love sushi – must go get some soon!
June 30th, 2009 at 8:41 pm
I’m finally going next week (dinner postponed from last month due to the tube strike! The friend I’m going with recommended it as it’s her local. I wish I had a local like Sushi Hiro…
June 30th, 2009 at 11:29 pm
You’ve convinced me, I’m off there tomorrow for lunch. It’s been too long.
Lennie
July 1st, 2009 at 10:01 pm
Wow. Sometimes I miss London.
Warm sushi rice is nice rice. Most sushi is mass produced and chilled till it’s ordered. Made fresh like that is really how it should be – the rice is so much lighter and flavoursome. That’s what I found with my wild strawberry sushi last week.
July 3rd, 2009 at 2:47 pm
ooo the nigiri looks so fresh! I’m *always* on the hunt for good sushi, so will put this on the list
January 31st, 2010 at 3:46 am
Great posting. Thanks for very useful information.
September 14th, 2010 at 3:17 pm
This is one of my favourite places to eat and seeing as I’m a huge sushi fan, this place is perfect. I hope to visit again soon.
April 15th, 2011 at 9:57 am
Come and give Korean food a try! Bibimbap Soho