Omakase is the true saviour of the lazy diner. Find menus overwhelming? Can’t be bothered to read, consider and then, after all that hard work, finally choose what you want to eat? No worries! At an omakase counter the chef will treat you like the big adult baby you are and pick all your food for you.
At Sushi Kamon, that chef is the cool, calm and collected Michael Nonato. He’s so laser-focused that he doesn’t even bat an eyelid at the England World Cup game which is blaring away on a massive screen across the room. Instead he mindfully slices salmon and tenderly cups then shapes freshly cooked sushi rice with his bare hands. He is the man you want on your side when shit goes down. If you’re wondering why the football is playing at an omakase counter, that’s because this particular omakase counter is part of the rightfully buzzy Arcade Food Hall. So alongside Sushi Kamon’s cosy corner spot, you’ll also find a carefully curated selection of global street food stands, including Mexa’s zingy tacos and the Southern Thai delights of Plaza Khao Gaeng. If you want to stuff your face it’s the ideal place, but if you’re after something a little more zen then maybe take your quiet romantic date elsewhere.
The first showstopper was a chunk of yellowtail scattered with a giddy sundried tomato and parmesan relish
That said, it turns out I love a lairy atmosphere with my tasting menu. Michael starts by showing the assembled handful of diners what’s in store for the evening, flashing us hunks of raw fish to get everyone in the mood. Then the seven courses start rolling out – early evening seatings are pretty good value at £45 per person, while the later 8.30pm session costs £75, but involves a few more courses.
Menus are seasonal, rotating every month so the freshest and most balanced selections can be offered, but each visit always starts with a couple of stems of pickled ginger. Ostensibly a mid-course palate cleanser, I may have become slightly infatuated and eaten mine a little too hastily, but they were replaced instantly.
Pieces of nigiri are hand placed on your plate – it’s the little things that make you feel loved – and the first showstopper was a chunk of yellowtail scattered with a giddy sundried tomato and parmesan relish. Other solid gold winners included sweet otoro belly tuna smoked over cherry wood and washed in garlic soy, and the monthly special; a sturdy and juicy slither of soft, buttery Wagyu beef. Still hungry? You can pay more for extra nigiri. Just give Michael the nod. He’s got you.
The vibe Sushi you don’t have to think about in a delightfully hectic food hall
The food Nigiri made right in front of your eyes, with the freshest of seasonal fish
The drink Whatever you like. If Arcade Food Hall has it, you got it. Simply order via QR codes by your seat
Time Out tip Sit back and enjoy the ride, babes