Afuri

• Baixa-Chiado (Linha Verde / Azul)
• €€
• R. Paiva de Andrada 7 13, 1200-310

There are certain things in this life which almost never fail to bring joy to all. Live music and bao buns. When presented with the opportunity to see the effervescent Faizal Mostrix for free at the São Luiz Theatre on weekend, a quick search of the map pointed to the bao restaurant right next door. However a quick look at the menu failed to inspire, whereas the Japanese restaurant one street over very much appealed. Also offering bao amongst the ramens and sashimi's, we nestled into Afuri ahead of the gig.

A well renowned brand back in Japan, Afuri has two restaurants in Lisbon, this izakaya in Chiado, and its ramen + dumpling house in Parque das Nações. Despite being just a few hundred metres from the real bustle of Chiado, the classic Japanese decor of woods and textiles immediately apply a sense of calm as you arrive.

Conscious that the post-meal scenario might involve some light dancing, we opted for the smorgasboard of smaller plates, izakaya style, rather than their legendary ramen. Although the standard of the small plates definitely inspires confidence that a trip back here or the second location will deliver.

Sharing two bao, one a typical pork belly in hoi sin sauce, the second a hearty wedge of aubergine (eggplant), coated in a panko crumb and chilli sauce. Both were excellent executions of how less is more when it comes to bao buns. Keeping with the panko trend, a bowl of crispy egg, two boiled eggs each wrapped in ubiquitous breadcrumb and paired with a spicy sauce also packed an umami punch.

A plate of miso and cashew dumplings were pleasant enough, in that way that dumplings can't really disappoint, but the standout plates of the evening go to the karaage, aka Japanese fried chicken and kanpachi carpaccio, aka amberjack sashimi.

Juicy chicken thigh in a light and crispy batter, with a creamy chilli mayo to dip, the karaage offered all the comforting goodness of fried chicken but without the greasy shame. Meanwhile the very high standard of amberjack meant the natural flavours of fish stood out, highlighting that the sushi is delivered with the highest provenance of ingredient. We'll definitely be coming back to put this theory to the test.

Keen to round of the meal with a complete journey, a shared dessert of salted caramel and oreo cheesecake brought proceedings to a delightful close. A lovely sweetness to cut through the soy and chilli prominence of the main courses. Overall this was a very high standard meal, one which I strongly recommend for any fans of Japanese cuisine.

Don't forget to order: Kanpachi carpaccio and karaage kick ass

Drinks: Large bottle of water and two coffees