Great downtown sushi spot brings the ocean to Budapest

Sushi Ocean on downtown Széchenyi utca allows aficionados of Japanese cuisine to enjoy the opportunity to sample real home-made flavours. In this stand-out restaurant, you can sample ramen, sushi and the best kimchi in town. Entering this basements complex, you are greeted by walls of colourful photo montages, and a young chef in operation. You can either find a seat at a dining table, or plonk yourself at the counter to admire Hirose Yoshihiro's work, which, as it turns out, involves far more than the compilation of diverse nigiri.

On the counter, an English-language Japanese certificate is clearly visible, guaranteeing authenticity and quality of raw materials. Hiro-san has perfected his knowledge in Japan, China, and the USA, and now he’s here in in Budapest for the pleasure of local diners.

The menu is extensive but typical of a Japanese kitchen, so no need for alarm. You can do well with from the set menus or go on a culinary adventure from the beginning to dessert. In addition, brunches range from 2,980 to 3,280 forints.

Seasonality and guests’ wishes both play a part: often Japanese regulars suggest what they miss from home, for it to be featured on the seasonal menu. It’s a welcome gesture that some Hungarian restaurants might do well to follow.

You won’t taste finer kimchi (880 HUF) in Budapest. Fresh tofu complements the fermented vegetables in great harmony. You can also savour sesame avocado (880 HUF), followed by equally balanced pork ramen (2,580 HUF). The soup base show wonderful character without being over the top, the meat likewise, while the pasta is excellent. Hiro-san likes to use a naked flame when cooking.

After the soup, it’s time for fresh fish. Anyone can go to the counter for Hiro-san’s fillets, or even take a photo of fresh unopened salmon. This is the most important element at the restaurant, fresh fish, along with the sauces made in-house. Suppliers are based in Italy and Vienna.

The rice bowls are also worth investigating, and the ten-piece sushi platter proves to be a winner. Hiro-san’s selection comprises nigari of seaweed salad, boiled shrimp, octopus, tuna, Atlantic shellfish, eel, mayonnaise salmon, grilled salmon, omelette and scallops. Prices range from 380 to 980 forints. The rice is excellent, the sauces varied.

Try and leave room for mochi rice cakes, ideal for dessert. Because of the izakaya pub style, there are also several Japanese beers, whiskies and gins. And if you overdo it on the saké, there’s always a bowl of healing ramen the next day.