Andaz London,
40 Liverpool Street,
Liverpool Street,
London,
EC2M 7QN
0872 148 2772
Note: Calls cost 10p per min plus network extras.
The ViewLondon Review
A stylish Japanese city eatery that packs in quality produce as well as punters.
The Venue
Minimalist Miyako is a small restaurant with a simple, earthy design. Seating about 30 people, the decor consists of wooden floors and walls with unfussy, square black tables. A large window looks onto Liverpool Street while the Gherkin frames the City view.
The Atmosphere
Soft lighting gives off a warm and hospitable ambiance. There isn't any music but the chatter of the patrons makes for sociable background noise. If you're confused with what to go for, the friendly waiters are more than happy to offer their recommendations.
The Food
Miyako claims to serve the freshest sushi and sashimi in The City and they're probably right. The crab sashimi is served as three super-thin blink-and-you'll miss-them slices of the crustacean, which indeed taste very fresh and offer quite a neutral flavour. The prawn inside out rolls are gently flavoured and have a light crispy bite to them thanks to the tempura batter, whilst the crab and avocado salad is superb - a mash up of flaky crab flesh and refreshing chunks of avocado decorated in a crisscross pattern of creamy dressing.
Hot dishes include beef teriyaki, which is a highlight. Cooked perfectly, the fillet is sliced into thin strips and is beautifully tender and a just right shade of pink in the middle. Meanwhile the chicken breast furai, pieces of golden crumbed chicken (think schnitzel), are tasty and crispy and come with tonkastu sauce which is a mixture between sweet and almost vinegary flavours. Both dishes are about £10.
The desserts are a work of art, smartly served on a slab of slate. The tiny stack of pancakes is somewhat chewy and is served with sweet beans that are reminiscent of the kidney variety. The dish comes with an intense scoop of vanilla ice cream. The white chocolate mousse with green tea sponge is a better choice, offering hints of an earthy flavour thanks to the green tea. It is served with an amazing raspberry ice cream. Desserts cost around £5.
The Drink
The drinks menu is quite small but it suits the simplicity of the restaurant. There are only about five wines to choose from in total and the Spanish Tempranillo (about £22) is a top choice. It's a lovely smooth and fruity red. If you want to get really authentic, try some warm sake which starts at £6 per glass.
The Last Word
Top Japanese food in uncomplicated yet stylish surroundings. Miyako is great choice whether you're after a quick pop in meal or looking for somewhere to settle in for some tasty nosh and a few wines.
Miyako has been reviewed by 1 users