Seemor
SASAA-Worth Trying
370 St John St, London EC1V 4NN
· Sushi restaurant, Bar, Japanese restaurant
· 4.6/5 Google (601 reviews)
Reservations · Delivery · Takeout
A creative, high-quality sushi spot in Clerkenwell with lively energy and fair mid-tier pricing; excellent fish and sets, though service consistency and occasional policy friction can detract.
Why it gets an A- for overall quality
SASA delivers exceptional food quality with pristine fish and expertly seasoned rice, supported by strong service knowledge and thoughtful design in its bright Clerkenwell space. However, occasional consistency dips in sashimi execution and modest comfort during peak seatings prevent grade A territory. The restaurant excels as a reliable neighborhood destination for quality sushi and creative sharers, competitive with London's better-regarded Japanese establishments.
Restaurant Summary
SASA lands in Clerkenwell with a bright room, a view of chefs at work, and a steady hum of conversation that feels lively but relaxed. Diners praise super-fresh fish and polished plating, with one noting, "the nigiri rice was dialed in and the fish tasted pristine." Service is often warm and helpful, though a few mention policy edges that can feel a touch firm. The cooking leans contemporary Japanese with playful sashimi sharers (think jalapeno yellowtail and seared salmon ume) alongside crowd-pleasing sets that make ordering easy. It is more produce-driven precision than theatrics, and the value holds up well in Zone 1. If you like variety, the SASA set or a chirashi plus a hot plate like rock shrimp tempura is a reliable route. For families, there are enough familiar anchors—miso soup, edamame, teriyaki-style skewers, and simple rolls—to keep younger eaters happy, even without a kids menu. Adventurous options abound, but you can build a gentle pathway with classic sushi sets and warm sides; just expect standard portions rather than heaping plates.
At a Glance
- Exceptionally fresh fish and well-seasoned rice
- Good value sushi sets for Zone 1
- Creative sashimi sharers and solid hot plates
- Service and policy consistency vary across visits
- Portions can feel modest relative to price
What Sets It Apart
- creative_sashimi_sharers
- well_priced_sushi_sets
- engaging_sushi_bar_view
What People Love
- Melt-in-mouth salmon and precise nigiri rice
- Lively, elegant space with a view of the sushi bar
- Rock shrimp and crunchy tuna as go-to crowd-pleasers
- Sets that simplify ordering without sacrificing quality
Points of Concern
- Service can feel rushed at peak times with 90-minute turnarounds
- Booking and cancellation policies felt strict to some guests
- Isolated quality dips: chewy fish, overseasoned tataki, stale nori reported by a few
- Allergy handling inconsistency noted in one report; confirm needs clearly
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleTable Service
Average Cost£36-58 per person
ReservationsRecommended
What to Order
- Build a balanced meal: one sharer (Yellowtail Jalapeno £20) + one set (Classic £17 or SASA £29) + dessert (Cheesecake £9).
- For spice lovers: Spicy Miso Pork Belly Skewers (£12) and Chilli Kosho Turbot (£19).
- Value path: Miso Soup (£4) + Classic Set (£17) + Yuzu Gelato (£6.50).
Perfect For
- Pre-theatre sushi and sake before Sadler’s Wells
- A relaxed date with counter-side chef watching
- Sharing plates with friends who love modern Japanese
- Solo sushi cravings at the bar
Location Insights
Area: Creative Clerkenwell strip with a mix of design studios, flats, and destination dining; draws locals and savvy diners.
Safety: Generally safe, well-trafficked main road, good lighting; typical central London feel.
Nearby: Near Sadler’s Wells Theatre and Exmouth Market; offices by day, relaxed dining scene by night.
ClerkenwellClerkenwell is renowned for its trendy dining scene, featuring a mix of modern restaurants, traditional pubs, and innovative eateries. The area has a lively social atmosphere with a strong emphasis on design, architecture, and creative industries, attracting a diverse crowd that enjoys both casual and upscale dining experiences.
FarringdonFarringdon, within Clerkenwell, is a bustling micro-neighborhood centered around the transport hub, known for its emerging food scene including artisanal coffee shops, gastropubs, and Michelin-starred restaurants. It has a youthful, energetic vibe with a focus on quality and innovation in dining.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday17:00–22:30
Tuesday12:00–14:30, 17:00–22:30
Wednesday12:00–14:30, 17:00–22:30
Thursday12:00–14:30, 17:00–22:30
Friday12:00–14:30, 17:00–22:30
Saturday12:00–14:30, 17:00–22:30
Sunday
Available: Reservations, Delivery, Takeout
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