Zuma, Central - 16.12.10

I have eaten a few times at Zuma now, and each time has turned out to be a rather drunken occasion so I have never been in a position to write an accurate review of the restaurant.  This time was no exception, but as I have at least some memory of the meal (although this is significantly marred by the much more vivid memory of our host hanging off of one of the umbrellas on the terrace and causing quite a stir with fellow diner and staff alike).

We were a table of five, and two members of our group don’t eat seafood, whereas the rest of us can’t bear to live without it.  We therefore let the boring non-fish eaters order for themselves, and I ordered a fabulous array of wonderful raw fish and shellfish for the more adventurous members of our group.  

Starters included Seared Beef with Yazu Kosho-Ponzu Dressing, Crispy Fried Squid with Green Chilli Salt and Lime and Sliced Yellowtail with Green Chilli Relish, Ponzu and Pickled Garlic.  We then went on to have a selection of Sashimi and Sushi Rolls for the fish eaters, and some Vegetable Tempura and a wonderful Wagyu Beef dish for the others.

All the dishes were good, especially the Yellowtail starter and beef main course.  The sushi was very fresh (but this is to be expected at the extortionate prices Zuma charges for it).  Overall, I can say that it was a fun night, with nice food, but not so special that you would want to write home about the experience.  I can’t help but feel that Zuma is more concerned about maintaining its cool, exclusive image than upholding its reputation for exceptional Japanese fusion cuisine.  When comparing like for like, I personally find Nobu to be far more inspiring and memorable food-wise.

Zuma

The Landmark

Level 5&6

15 Queen’s Road Central

Hong Kong 

T: +852 3657 6388

W: www.zumarestaurant.com