The Bonsai Restaurant, 6003

I'm not sure how long this place has been around but something about it says "new"; and not in that sterile, unfamiliar way.  I think it's the space and the staff. The building is much like a New York City warehouse, spiffed up with slick black surfaces and subdued lighting.  Tables are large and spaced apart, so you really have a sense of privacy and luxury about your dining. Service is warm, organized, attentive; matched with a pleasant "let's stay all night" atmosphere.

In addition to sushi and sashimi, The Bonsai has some Japanese dishes you wont find regularly. The menu is divided into sushi, cold shares, hot shares, fried shares, salads, mains and extras. You can choose to have a night of tapas or a meal to your own. Everyones happy!

California Roll $9.90

We ordered California sushi rolls – “Blanched prawn and avocado sushi coated with tobiko, and finally dressed with caramel soy & aioli” ($9.90 for 6 pcs) to start; and for main I went for the “Pan fried eggplant dressed with goma miso sauce, served with a side of red capsicum and enoki salad. Garnished with leek julienne and alfalfa sprouts” (16.90). The eggplant is a wonderful healthy, vegetarian dish that does not sacrifice on taste! I would order this again and again.

Miso Eggplant $16.90

Also ordered –“Sashimi grade salmon slices marinated in a light lemon and olive oil dressing, mixed with witlof julienne and salmon roe". ($13.90)

Salmon Ceviche $13.90

And “Beef Asparagus - Thinly sliced MSA grade scotch fillet beef, wrapped around asparagus and pan fried. Served with caramel soy, and seeded-mustard tomato relish” ($16.90)

Beef Asparagus $16.90

Finding ourselves still peckish, we ordered the “Teri-chicken”. “Pan fried chicken Maryland thigh fillet paired with a side of steamed broccoli and carrot, dressed with lemon shallot vinaigrette and teriyaki sauce, garnished with chives.” ($16.90) – was light and tender; if a little mild on the teriyaki flavour. 

Teri-chicken $16.90

Every single dish was prepared and presented beautifully. Serves were slightly on the small side but this is good reason to try a few different things – there are so many promising options!

Chocolate Temptation $8.90

For dessert we had two “Chocolate Temptations” – a decadent mousse like cake; and a “Green Tea Martini” (each $8.90 and only available on Friday and Saturday nights). The Martini was a layered dessert of green tea sponge, green tea mousse; finished with whipped cream. Both delectable. 

Green Tea Martini $8.90

The Bonsai is a perfect option to start a Friday or Saturday night – the mood is a bit a bit “special occasion” but still comfortable and you wont feel rushed at all. It’s a bit more unique from your common Japanese - ideal if you want to impress someone a bit special. The Sneaky Pidge will be back…and soon!

Food: 4/5

Ambience: 4/5

Service: 4/5