Sticks 'N' Sushi Victoria

This “contemporary and relaxing” Japanese chain hails from Copenhagen and you’ll spot a minimalist Scandi influence, with designer furniture, bare bricks and dramatic lighting. The mood may be Nordic noir, but the food gets a warm thumbs-up from readers – “small bites of deliciousness” sighs one. The approachable concept of serving sushi alongside grilled skewers (‘sticks’) isn’t strictly authentic, but results are impressive. Our only criticism is that there’s perhaps “too much choice” on the extensive menu, which reads like a glossy food magazine. Jewel-like sharing platters of “fantastic fresh sushi” taste as good as they look: witness subtly spiced ‘coal crab’ futomaki with crunchy soft-shell crab, black rice and sweet unagi sauce. Sticks include juicy scallop teriyaki and panko-breaded duck with wasabi, while well-chosen wines, saké and stylish Asian cocktails lend support.