This week, Wasabi took summer dining to new heights—or rather, new waters—with a stylish boat party to launch their brand-new omakase-inspired summer menu. Onboarding at South Bank’s Festival Pier, guests embarked on a flavour-filled journey down the River Thames, complete with iconic views, a live DJ, and an exclusive tasting of the latest seasonal offerings. Editor Kai Lutterodt shares more.
For those unfamiliar with the term, “omakase” translates from Japanese as “I’ll leave it up to you.” This dining concept enables diners to experience a curated sequence of dishes prepared by the chef, a perfect complement to Wasabi’s mission to bring fresh, exciting, and high-quality Japanese cuisine to the UK.
The star of the summer menu is the Tokubetsu Omakase Box, a beautifully packaged, premium tasting set that takes customers on a seven-part flavour journey. From the refreshing Edamame Bean Salad opener to the dramatic finale of the spicy tuna inari pocket, each element has been thoughtfully crafted. Highlights include the Tuna Dragon Roll, draped with yellowfin tuna, fresh tuna, and salmon nigiri, as well as Asian slaw, pickled daikon, and hosomaki rolls, all finished with a zesty ponzu dressing.
“We wanted to create something that felt truly special and experiential,” said Florence Gardner-Hillman, Wasabi’s Food Product Developer. “Omakase was the perfect answer. It’s a chance for customers to try a range of flavours in one sitting, all tied together with premium ingredients and a modern twist.”
Additional seasonal showstoppers include the colourful Jewelled Donburi with diced salmon and tuna, and the indulgent Prawn Crunch Dragon Roll, which attendees could participate in creating their own, topped with a medley of teriyaki glaze, wasabi yuzu mayo, salmon pearls, and more. What’s more, returning fan favourites such as the Rainbow Set have been refreshed for summer, now including two tuna nigiri.
Fortunately, while not everyone could stomach the combination of sushi and a two-hour boat party, most of us enjoyed the experience with a drink in hand, basking in the warm sunshine shining down on London.
The launch event offered a sneak peek of this gourmet-to-go concept, combining food, fun, and some of London’s most iconic riverside scenery. Guests enjoyed drinks, sushi, and upbeat music while cruising past Tower Bridge and other landmarks—a fitting backdrop for a menu that celebrates both tradition and innovation.
And the best part? You don’t need a boat ticket to enjoy it. The full summer menu is available for a limited time across all Wasabi branches nationwide.
So if you’re strolling through Soho and your appetite kicks in, head to 39 Old Compton Street to grab your Wasabi’s take on omakase – no sailing required.
Words and pictures by Kai Lutterodt @the.soho.girl
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