GP Score: 9/10
If you’re looking for a new restaurant in London with a terrace, you’re in luck. Located on the 6th floor of the recently refurbished Page8 hotel in St Martins Place Charing Cross, Bisushima Japanese restaurant is one of the biggest places to drink and dine al-fresco in London.
Spread over two rooftop terraces, with a large indoor area, this space is sure to be your new favourite restaurant in London. Here’s why…
Decor and vibe
Designed with the concept of Shinrin-yoku in mind, the natural tones and use of plants really does bring a definite sense of serenity to the chaos of Charing Cross. Shinrin-yoku is sometimes known as ecotherapy. This broadly means using nature to improve someone’s mental and physical health, which after the year we’ve had, I am totally down for.
The views of Trafalgar Square on one side, and a picturesque cityscape with a peek of the London Eye on the other, lends itself nicely to the stylish yet calm aura of the restaurant.
Food
Presented perfectly for instagram, the design of the food is exquisite. The time put into every dish does not go unnoticed. Bisushima has a largely seafood based menu, with everything from fresh oysters (get there early before these run out) to caviar and lobster tempura. As expected, they also have a vast sushi offering. The menu changes seasonally, ensuring only the freshest ingredients.
My personal highlights include the Lobster & Cauliflower Cold Appetiser, Lobster Tempura & Sautéed Scallops, and the Baby Squid Kara-Age in particular the accompanying coriander dressing, which I did end up finishing off by itself!
Some of the desserts are created to order, and are incredible. I went for the Lemon Pie with Sake Kasu Sorbet and the Chocolate Fondant with Matcha Ice-Cream. Devine. The freshness of the lemon, and the richness of the chocolate were unmatched.
Drink
Bisushima also has a varied drinks menu, with exciting cocktails, sake and spirits. As someone who gets enticed by everything on the menu, I was glad when the waitress asked for my drink preferences and came back from the bar with the most flavourful cocktail for me. Unfortunately I don’t think it has a name, but I love a place with an experienced mixologist behind the bar.
Service
Talking of the waitress, the hospitality from entering the building downstairs, to being seated and served was exceptional. All of the staff were knowledgeable about the restaurant, and nothing seemed too much bother for them, even though all of the outside space was occupied by guests.
Price
Everything in Bisushima is hand prepared in-house, and you can see this for yourself with their open kitchen. For this reason, you can’t expect a discounted dinner.
This restaurant is on the pricier side, but believe me, it’s worth it. My meal for two consisted of a cocktail and a bottle of wine, a starter, two dishes, two sides, three sushi rolls and two desserts, and came to around £240 including tip.
Overall
I’ve been to a fair few Japanese restaurants in my time, but the food and atmosphere at Bisushima was by far my favourite. I can’t wait to gather the troops and head there for a big brunch once restrictions are lifted.
Bisushima is now open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, or you can just pop by for drinks. Grab your opportunity by booking here.
