No longer does Warsaw think of simply sushi when going Japanese – of all the major trends in recent times, few have been as gratifying as the city’s newfound love all things Japanese. Below, we present a handful of newbies that have rocked the Polish capital.
Hoża 43/49
Don’t look for a sign, rather for the queue that wraps its way around the corner. Specialising in matcha teas, the menu also includes dango rice balls and daifuku mochi filled with seasonal delicacies. Split in two rooms, the one that gets the most attention touts illuminated mesh-wired installations that hang like clouds. For sure, one of the most viral openings of the year!
Noakowskiego 8
Just steps from the Polytechnic, Niigata’s street-side window serves out one of Warsaw’s favourite lunch-on-the-run solutions from a hatchway decorated with cute, waving kittens. Wrapped in plastic, pop by for creative, handheld rice balls that come in vegan and non-vegan options. The spicy Akuma is a fave, though for the classic bestseller select the sake-seasoned roasted salmon.
Jana Pawła 41A
This lively little joint gives Japanese food a new spin with its presentation of on-the-dash fried foods served in various combinations. Topped with swirls and slashes of mayo and ‘secret spicy sauce’, the JFC (Japanese Fried Chicken) is a particular big-seller and addictively more-ish. On the beverage front, plunge into the unknown by ordering a fruit-flavored soju.
Mińska 45
With just eight seats and one sitting per day, reservations aren’t recommended, they’re compulsory. Priced at PLN 750 per head, the cost is reflective of what many call a one-in-a-million experience and the most exceptional sushi dinner that the country has ever seen. Although open just a few months, it’s impossible to believe that Warsaw will ever see a better standard.
Wilcza 73
Filled with light during the day, come dusk the curtains sweep shut to close guests off from the outside world. Sensual fragrances waft around, complementing a luxury menu touting bottles of craft sake that peak at PLN 3,000. Fixed by smart staff, cocktails are also prominent and include the refreshingly aromatic Summertime Sadness. It’s the final word in luxury Japan.
Pokorna 2
For something totally paw-some, visit this Japanese themed cat café. Split into two sections it’s in the second room that you’ll find an array of felines prowling about and lazing on the shelves. The food and drink is also a hit and includes Choyu plum wine, Asian-inspired cocktails, fluffy Japanese pancakes and a range of onigiri. As fun and friendly as it all appears to be, they’re dead serious about the quality.
