Freak Scene Sushi and Robata
An exciting new addition to the Balham food scene is Freak Scene, the second London branch of ex-Nobu chef Scott Hallsworth’s restaurant (you’ll find the other one in Fulham). Housed in a colourful two-floored space just off the high street, the pan-Asian fusion eatery has been a big hit since opening earlier this year – every night of the week it has a buzzy vibe, filled with groups of friends and couples.
No surprise: the food here is really impressive. The menu offers an array of small plates, sushi and robata dishes, all packed with flavour and presented with flair. Kick things off with the edamame (charred in a deliciously moreish sake and butter pairing), plus some sushi: the Freak Scene Special really is something special, filled with crispy tempura shrimp and topped with seared hamachi. Don’t knock the sushi tacos ‘till you’ve tried them, either (we’d recommend the tuna). Save plenty of space for the robata dishes, too – there’s sticky miso aubergine; rich, buttery black cod in thick laksa; hispi cabbage with ponzo and truffle and much more. This is seriously flavoursome food, amid fun and relaxed settings. By Ellie Smith
1 Ramsden Rd, London SW12 8QX, freakscenerestaurants.com
