The Umi is an independent Japanese restaurant at 4 Bedford Hill in Balham. Inspired by the relaxed spirit of an izakaya, it brings sushi, grilled dishes and smaller sharing plates together in an informal setting. The restaurant is fully licensed and welcomes diners for weekend lunch as well as dinner, making it suitable for anything from a quick selection of rolls to a longer meal shared with friends.
Sushi is an important part of the menu, with sashimi, nigiri and maki offering different ways to enjoy carefully prepared fish, seafood and vegetables. Diners can choose simple pieces that keep the focus on the main ingredient or combine several rolls and platters for greater variety. The presentation is clean and colourful, while rice, seasoning and accompaniments are used to support rather than overwhelm each filling.
Hot dishes introduce the smoky flavours of robata cooking alongside the light crunch of tempura. Grilled meat, seafood and vegetables can be mixed with dumplings and other Japanese small plates to create a meal made for sharing. Contrasting textures, savoury sauces and measured seasoning give these dishes enough range to complement the colder sushi selection.
Rice and noodle dishes provide more substantial choices for diners wanting a single main course, with Japanese curry and other comforting preparations adding depth to the selection. Vegetable dishes and meat free sushi help groups accommodate different preferences, while desserts offer a gentle finish after the savoury plates. Sake, beer, wine and other drinks complete The Umi’s approachable take on Japanese dining in Balham.
Address: 4 Bedford Hill, Balham, London SW12 9RG, United Kingdom