Review

Bangkok’s sizeable contingent of Japanese expatriates means that sushi and sashimi standards in the city are high. Therefore, it takes chutzpah for a venue to proclaim “the best sushi restaurant in Bangkok.” Yet that’s what Yellow Tail Sushi Bar (YTSB) trumpets on its monogrammed placemats. A bullish statement, but diners will find plenty to adore about the omakase offerings from behind their counter curated by the talented kitchen team. Thrice weekly deliveries of seafood from Tokyo’s Tsukiji and Toyusu markets mean that the morsels that are shaped, sliced, and served are fresh. An omakase sitting here is a pleasure from beginning to end. Preliminary moves include plump, juicy oyster topped with ikura and delicately flavoured monkfish liver, served with thinly sliced scallions, and a ponzu drizzle. After that, sushi and sashimi take top billing, although sake lovers might argue the case for an impressive selection of craft bottles from boutique brewers in Japan. It’s hard to pick a winner from the succession of big hitters presented, as everything is exemplary. Sushi fanatics will dream about temaki hand rolls with fatty tuna, and sea urchin, freshwater eel, prawn, and flying fish roe. Wagyu steak don and yakimono high-heat miso black cod are perfectly executed to showcase premium ingredients and culinary expertise. An accomplished dining experience is completed by gracious, knowledgeable service.