Putting on the spritz – editor Sophie Ritchie visits SUSHISAMBA Covent Garden for a blossom-filled afternoon at its new Chandon Garden Spritz terrace takeover
When the sun is (finally) shining in London, there’s really nowhere better to be than sitting outside on a terrace somewhere pretty, preferably sipping the day away.
Created in partnership with the Argentinian brand Chandon Spritz, SUSHISAMBA’s Covent Garden location has absolutely nailed this quintesstional London pastime, transforming its outside terrace into an urban oasis filled with orange blossoms and other eye-catching decor for summer.
The Venue
We’re shown to a corner table by a smiling member of staff, which immediately feels more secluded and tucked away from the bustle of Covent Garden’s piazza beside us.
I also appreciate the thick wall of foliage, which doubles up as both a noise barrier from shopping tourists and a safeguard against potential pickpockets – you can put your handbag down with peace of mind for a change.
The surroundings are sweet enough but it’s SUSHISAMBA’s menu that steals the show here, offering a selection of cocktails crafted in partnership with Chandon Spritz (not to be confused with anything remotely Champagne-related of course).
Fruity and summery, there’s an eclectic mix to be sampled, ranging from a Chandon Spritz (inspired by the classic Aperol number) through to a more bitter Yu-Zinger for those who prefer something sturdier in their glass.
The Food & Drink
Ever similar in our choices, both me and my friend opt for a Summer Squeeze from the list before us. Ideal for those who prefer sweeter tipples, it’s a long cocktail made with Shochu, Cachaça, peach wine, lychee meets rose syrup and soda – topped off with crushed berries, mint and tiny micro coriander sprigs for added garnish. It tastes dangerously like juice, as all the best cocktails do, and glides down like a ballerina on a water slide.
For the foodies, you’ve come to the right terrace. Almost all of SUSHISAMBA’s all-day dining menu can be ordered at the downstairs terrace, with the exception of the piping hot Wagyu beef (being somewhat of a safety hazard to carry down the venue’s ultra cool but mildly dangerous spiral staircase).
If you’re not yet familiar with SUSHISAMBA’s renowned offering, expect an innovative fusion of flavours from Japan, Brazil and Peru. It’s exotic and enticing, regardless of whether you’ve opted for a small dish or full-on Robata blow out.
We kick things off with some Rock Shrimp Tempura (£30) and two Lobster Taquitos (£26). Dishes here are worth digging deep in the pockets for – the plates before us are sublime. I’ve been vegetarian for most of my adult life and find eating fish again can be a bit hit and miss.
SUSHISAMBA’s shrimp makes me want to grab the bowl with both hands and dive in headfirst – the small battered bites practically melt upon my tongue. They’re complimented beautifully by snap pea julienne and creamy dollops of spicy mayo for a tasty finish. It’s the kind of dish you eye up with subtle greediness when sharing, hoping to grab as much onto your chopsticks can allow without coming across as a total savage.
The lobster taquitos with avocado and pickled shallots are equally delicious. Tacquito translates to ‘little taco’ in Spanish, and the pretty morsels are exactly that – a bite of crisp taco shells and lobster meat, topped off with fresh radish shavings and coriander, plus a vibrant tangy dipping sauce.
We finish off our lunchtime feast with something veggie – the Eggplant with sweet and sour miso. It’s simultaneously soft and chewy, a flavour bomb of sweet soy and smokey aubergine. From afar, its flat presentation could be mistaken for sea bass. A few mouthfuls in and I remember why it’s always my go-to dish of choice whenever I find myself dining SUSHISAMBA style.
The Wordrobe Verdict
An urban oasis of leafy foliage and decor that’ll leave you feeling like you’ve been lunching in the middle of Firenze itself, the Garden Spritz terrace is ideal for an easy date spot or drinks with the girls. Sit back and sip up, this is one central hotspot you certainly won’t want to skip before summer ends.
Make it happen
Where: 35 The Market, London WC2E 8RF
How: Find out more and make a booking via sushisamba.com
Words by Sophie Ritchie, editor
