Wabi

A neat two-tiered package, this contemporary Japanese is a refreshing & unlikely addition to the Sussex scene. At ground level, the glitzy cocktail bar shares space with a sushi counter, robata grill & tables for casual meals, while the upstairs dining room has a more traditional feel. Chef Scott Hallsworth earned his stripes at London’s Nobu, & brings a fashionable east-meets-west approach to proceedings. Expect excellent sushi, black cod with miso (of course), classic prawn tempura & the like, as well as a few more boundary-challenging ideas. Slick slices of yellowtail sashimi with a stunning citrus soy dip, tea-smoked duck tataki with scorched ginger amazu sauce, or slow-cooked pork belly with spicy Korean miso & apple all provide something pleasingly different. Set lunch menus (from £9.50) are a good introduction & obliging staff are happy to explain the food, while tatami seating & private booths are perfect for special occasions.