It is early Saturday evening and we (His & Hers) are wending our way to Liu Shi. Newly opened and making a bit of a stir. This is an Asian Fusion restaurant that we are very much looking forward to visiting.

Feature by Jean Hill

Sixty Hope Street is a beautiful building and there are beautiful garlands of blossoms to welcome guests through the doorway.

There was a welcoming vibe apparent immediately. The staff stepped forward with ready smiles and very much want to be a part of a great dining experience for guests.

We got to meet the manager, who welcomed feedback to make the restaurant the best it can possibly be. He discussed variations on the menu and some of the intriguing choices.

It is a beautiful space: a modernised Georgian building with austere elegance (and very comfortable seating). The staff understand the cuisine and make recommendations based on their own favourite dishes. Will try the sticky ribs (which came highly recommended) next visit.

Some of the dishes on the menu are a little unexpected in a good way. Duck cottage pie is another one for next time. The Mandarin Crème Brulée, which I did try was simply fabulous: crackly surface, soft and richly creamy beneath, with a subtle mandarin ‘squishy’ base that blended flavours brilliantly.

I chose vegetable spring rolls for my starter: simply the best spring rolls I have ever tasted: crispy and so fresh; a taste of spring. My companion chose edamame beans which is a Japanese dish. It is a good way to get plant-based protein, dietary fibre, vitamins and minerals. They also tasted sharp and flavourful with a crunchy texture.

My companion went for a Katsura chicken curry, which was medium hot, delicious with temptingly tender chicken and subtle curry flavours in the mix. My choice was sea bass with seaweed, soft noodles, lemongrass and shredded ginger. The sea bass was succulent and the shredded ginger worked beautifully to bring out the full flavour.

There is a bottomless brunch offering at weekends at £35.00. Undeniably a good deal. There are Sunday roasts on, you guessed it, Sunday. There are also pre-theatre deals, 12 noon until 6pm at £22.00 for 2 courses and £28.00 for 3 courses.

The chef is really talented. The manager wants guests to have a great experience. There are special deals to enjoy. We had a lovely evening. Thank you to everyone involved for making it so special.

https://liushihopestreet.co.uk

From the archives: Stunning new Asian fusion restaurant Liu Shi coming to Hope Street.