Published: Thursday, 27th March, 2008 08:30
If you knew sushi...
By Tom Fahey
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AMONG endless branded pubs, Chineses and curry houses there are still some adventurous establishments to liven up the Reading food scene. Wa is a shining example of this. Its authentic, immaculately fresh, interactive Japanese food demands your attention.
Wa is housed within the Tudor-esque George Hotel, so the outside resembles a quaint old country hotel, but once inside, the clean, minimalist white/mahogany décor, cabinets filled with willow pattern crockery and prominent foliage set the scene beautifully.
Japanese food has some very distinct branches, all represented here. For the adventurous there’s sushi and sashimi, for the less so, noodle soups, meats in teriyaki and BBQ sauces, then, for those wanting variety, Bento boxes offering a bit of everything.
There are also several Japanese beers and sakes to keep things authentic.
Wa’s sushi and sashimi are real sushi and sashimi, and I urge everyone to try them.
The Wa platter is an extensive, exquisitely presented selection of four types of nigiri (sliced raw salmon, tuna and bass on sushi rice) and four types of sashimi (the fish minus the rice).
The chef knows how to cut his fish, and the variety of textures created were amazing. Seasonings of pickled ginger, soy dipping sauce and wasabi add strong flavours to the soft, subtle, fish and rice.
The BBQ is something of an event with the middle of the table removed and replaced by a grill, on top of which was sat a huge rib steak marinated in soy, black pepper and sesame oil that was swiftly cooked and portioned by the chef.
The steak was tender, smoky and delicious, accompanied by plain sticky rice, grilled vegetables and a meaty dipping sauce.
Wa does simple just as well as elaborate. The ramen (noodle soup) combines soft noodles with complex miso, soft tofu, and crisp fresh vegetables. Wa also makes its own green tea and red bean ice-creams, which are more appealing than they sound and just like sushi, really do grow on you.
If you like sushi or BBQed meat, Wa is the place to go. If you want to try something different or get introduced to Japanese food, Wa will convert you.
It’s a great little restaurant that as well offering freshness and variety, adds a much-needed injection of individualism to the Reading restaurant scene.
Where: 10-12 King Street, Reading.
Telephone: 0118 950 3773.
How much: £20-£40.
Opening times: Monday, 6pm to 10pm; Tuesday to Friday, noon to 3pm and 6pm to 10pm; Saturday, noon to 10pm; Sunday noon to 4pm.
Need to book: Yes.
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