Bonsai

Authentic Japanese food made by the pros

€€
Rua da Rosa, 248
Príncipe Real
213 462 515
Mon, closed; Tue – Sat, 12h30 – 14h30, 19h – 23h; Sun, closed

Brush up on your Japanese because you might just need it in this traditional restaurant in the heart of Príncipe Real. Complete with rattan flooring, side rooms with floor seating, a sushi bar, and Western-style tables at the front, this sushi and ramen haven has everything done just right. This was confirmed by a friend who has been living in Japan for several years as he excitedly spoke Japanese to the waitress, asking for things we weren’t seeing on the menu. My advice: check the cork board behind the counter that is filled with strips of paper bearing the names of the dishes of the day — in Japanese (natch!) and Portuguese. Here is where the kooky eaters will feel most at ease, while those of you who came for the more traditional sushi or sashimi platters will likely stick to what’s on the menu. I recommend doing a little of both. I went for the shiu mai dumplings, the sashimi platter, and the onigiri rice ball with salmon skin. I can’t wait to go back and try more, but next time I won’t risk it and I’ll make a reservation. As a walk-in I almost couldn’t get a seat! Highly recommended for a special occasion, a business lunch, or, you know, just a regular Tuesday.