SHOKU, a Japanese-Peruvian inspired restaurant and sushi bar, has opened in MediaCityUK – believed to be the first ‘Nikkei’ kitchen and sushi bar of its kind outside London.
The restaurant takes inspiration from traditional Japanese grill cafes and combines it with a Peruvian twist by taking that Andean nation’s ingredients and preparing them, using Japanese techniques. Peru has the second largest Japanese population in South America and access to amazing seafood. Result Nikkei – the ultimate fusion food.
Shoku’s aim is casual yet upscale dining, from a lunchtime bite to a high-end evening experience. For grab and go options, sushi can be made to order and collected, while a bento box offers an eclectic, exotic mix of flavours.
Heading up the operation are exec chef Pedro Miranda and head chef James Saadat. Pedro is skilled in Japanese Kaiseki and has worked under one of Japan’s top chefs, Yoshihiro Murata and James (below) has travelled across South America to experience and learn the unique techniques of Nikkei style food.
Their MediaCityUK fit-out has an Instagram-able Japanese maple leaf ceiling, intimate booths and includes a Nikkei kitchen and sushi bar. The menu includes a raw bar, small and large plates, ramen, homemade broths and fusion-style sweets.
Co-owner of Shoku Adam Regan has 20 years’ experience as a chef told us: “I’m looking forward to rekindling my love for the kitchen at Shoku. With this project, I’m excited to develop my knowledge of Japanese cuisine further.”
MediaCityUK MD Stephen Wild added: “The presence of Shoku at MediaCityUK really enhances the range of bars and restaurants based here for our growing number of visitors to enjoy.”
A further serious plus point is Shoku’s partnership with the United Nations Environment backed initiative Carbon Free Dining. As a certified restaurant, Shoku’s diners have the opportunity to plant a life-changing fruit tree in the developing world. These fruit trees provide food, shelter, education and the start of a lasting economy. They also counterbalance the carbon produced from their meals.
Shoku, Retail Unit 5, Orange Building, Media City UK, Salford, M50 2EQ. 0161 713 3733.