Hidden behind the weekday bustle of market stalls in Whitecross Street is the calm oasis of Pham Sushi. It is neat and clean but not ostentatious and it serves excellent Japanese food – easily of a standard of many of its expensive Wet End brethren. It is no wonder that Pham Sushi is a regular haunt for the sophisticates from Linklaters and some other City firms as well as providing good value, authentic food for discerning locals. Being slightly off the City's usual beaten tracks it feels like a secret gem, however it does make sense to book a table as the restaurant is quite small and deservedly popular.

I have used Pham Sushi both as a venue for informal business meetings and also as a place to take my family for a delicious Japanese supper (and we live South of The River). The food is good value and very fresh. A wide selection of Nigiri Sushi, Sushi Rolls, Sashimi and traditional hot dishes ( such as Tempura, Teriyaki, and noodles are available as are wooden and porcelain Bento boxes offering a good mix at circa £13. My youngest son is convinced that they serve the best Miso soup in the world, it is certainly better than bowls we have enjoyed when travelling in Asia. Service is courteous and attentive without being obtrusive. The tables are made mock-wooden Formica but once covered in dishes the simplicity almost adds to the ambience. The house Special Sashimi is wonderful – meltingly fresh fillets of tuna, yellowtail, sea bass and salmon with delicate accompaniments – thin slivers of chilli, radish and vinegar. When we ate there on Saturday evening, the Nasu Dengaku (deep fried aubergine with sweet miso) was delicious – smooth, creamy and sweet. we enjoyed excellent, freshly prepared Edamame (Japanese Soya beans) which we popped fresh from their salty pods and wonderful Pork Gyozas as starters. We binged on sushi, sashimi and tempura with my 11 year old feasting on a Beef Bento – excellent Teriyaki Beef that was tender and flavoursome. The Green tea is good (and only… More