Two of my favourite types of cuisine are Spanish and Japanese. So I was especially excited to learn that the Fuji Grill in Chelsea has unveiled a new menu concept, aptly named Tapasu.
This inspired creation marries the meticulous artistry and refinement of Japanese cuisine with the sharing culture of Spanish tapas. It offers the perfect opportunity to savour a broader spectrum of exquisite, smaller plates at a leisurely pace – all within the elegance of one of Chelsea’s most stylish eateries.
Fuji Grill remains something of a well-kept secret located in the comfort and opulence of the Beaverbrook House Hotel. To reach the restaurant, you have to pass through a rather magnificent bar – an experience in itself and a secret worth sharing. My advice – pause for a pre-dinner drink. It’s a fabulous way to begin the evening, with expert mixologists crafting inventive cocktails. You may be tempted to linger longer…but the promise of an exceptional meal calls.
The menu is full of drool-worthy treats. From the unexpectedly sublime crispy fish skin served with Japanese tartar sauce proving how even the simplest of ingredients can be elevated to something extraordinary to a selection of sushi, salads, dumplings, soups and hot pots it’s an extravaganza of deliciousness. We loved the taco-style temaki, delicious combos of fish and sauces served in crispy seaweed – an elevated Japanese interpretation of the taco that was as visually appealing as it was tasty.
We also indulged in an array of beautifully prepared charcoal-grilled dishes, one of the most incredible aubergine dishes ever, moreish corn ribs and fabulously fresh sashimi. But my favourites were definitely from the Townhouse Specials section. The wagyu sukiyaki, encased in delicate crispy nori is a gasp-inducing dish and just when you think it can’t get any better there’s southern fried lobster to crunch on , golden crunchy and unforgettable.
I feel an urge to work my way through the entire new menu. I’m confident I’d savour every single bite. It’s a captivating journey through the most delectable corners of Japanese cuisine, one exquisite mouthful at a time. Given the chance, I’d gladly indulge in a thousand of those mouthfuls. Tapasu feels like the future of dining – for me anyway.
Find out more at https://beaverbrooktownhouse.co.uk/the-fuji-grill/
Photo credit: Olly Hunter
Words by Sandy Cadiz-Smith