In downtown Jiangning, close to end of Shengtai Lu, Benyi Sushi is much more than a hole in the wall Japanese joint.
For starters, it’s cosy. Sitting a mere 10 people downstairs, with a space for a further five upstairs, the intimate setting allows for interesting observation of the chef at work; the preparation of sushi being an art into itself.
Sushi options are plentiful at the newcomer, yet its name belies the remainder of the menu; our party of three (sat at the bar; recommended) sampled Zhao Shao Chicken Steaks at ¥45, an avocado salad for ¥35 and beef and seaweed noodles at ¥48. That’s a hefty price tag for a bowl of noodles, but what we are paying for here, after all, is the seclusion. This is a part of Nanjing where the population grows exponentially with the ebb and flow of the academic year; the crowded streets outside Benyi Sushi’s door being catered to by a swathe of cheap, fast food joints eager to swipe the smartphone of every student in sight.
It’s a relief to be off the street, away from the hordes, in civilised, quiet surroundings.
Refreshing Japanese pop, tasteful and not too loud, is another indicator of the relatively young nearby populace; Nanjing University of Aeronautics and Astronautics is across the street.
That it is still early days for Benyi Sushi is evident; we could have done with being told that Japanese fois gois was one of their specialities. Unfortunately, we found out when we were already stuffed.
Numerous brands of saki are available, also on the pricy side, as are those reliable Japanese staples Asahi and Kirin beers.
We’d love for Benyi Sushi to remain open, yet that could well be a tall order given the prices and the fact that no less than three other Japense restaurants can be found all within a stone’s throw. An English menu here could make all the difference.
Benyi Sushi is located at 168 Shengtai Xi Lu, Jiangning (corner of Xuefu Jie) 江宁区胜太西路168号（学府街口）. Tel: 52766177 / 18061619377
