Isao Sushi Bar, known for its fusion sushi creations, is probably one of the hottest Japanese restaurants in Bangkok. It is the kind of place where you will go crazy and want to order everything from the menu. It is the kind of place which you hope nobody will discover because it is really that good.

Everyone comes here for the much-lauded Sushi Sandwich (THB300). After trying it, we have to say it lived up to all the hype. The combination – spicy tuna and salmon stuffed between layers of sushi rice with tempura batter, ebiko and scallion – is brilliant! It is, without exaggerating, to die for.

When asked to recommend another popular item, the staff urged us to go for Jackie (THB350), which is shaped in the form of a caterpillar. Shrimp tempura, ebiko, avocado are wrapped with ebi and it comes with a special savoury-sweet sauce. We appreciate how the chefs put in effort to make the sushi fun and interesting for diners.

Isao’s Chirashi (THB250 for a smaller portion during lunch, usual ala carte THB360) is equally impressive with a generous serving of fresh sashimi. It is ridiculously cheap and good. If I was staying in Bangkok, I would have this for lunch everyday.

Overall, the food at Isao is very good. Bold, playful and delicious. Not to mention that the prices are a bargain for the quality of food. It is advisable to go during lunch as it is a lot less crowded. They are extremely popular during dinner, and reservations are needed unless you are willing to wait in line.

Isao Sushi Bar
5 Sukhumvit 31, Watthana
Tel: +66 2 258 0645
Daily: 11am – 2am
Nearest BTS: Asok