We decided to return to Matsuba for our wedding anniversary dinner and as it is a very small restaurant holding no more than approx 30 covers, we were wise to book. Several people did turn up expecting to get a table and were turned away disappointed however, they know what to do the next time. We arrived on time and although we had a reservation, Matsuba did not have our table prepared so there was a little wait before we sat down and this waiting theme continued for the rest of our visit. We were left to wait with the menu's for quite some time before we placed our order and there was enough time for a mini power nap before our starters and sushi arrived. We also noticed that tables who arrived after us were served before us and had a lot more attention from the waiting staff. Could this be that they favoured bigger parties than the 'table for two'? The first time we got any check back on our meal was when we almost finished our mains. Far far too late. But enough of the negatives for now, let's focus on what Matsuba excels and the reason why we returned and that is the sushi and appetisers.
Simple and good quality but not cheap!. Having a large amount of family in Richmond (including my dad whose sushi obsession hugely limited the variety of restaurants we visited), meant that many a lunch was spent in Matsuba. I have always had delicious food there, despite the sushi and sashimi section being somewhat unadventurous, but I would mostly rate my satisfaction at never having had to foot the bill :) Special occasion if you're in the area.
Love it!. Matsuba has a great setting, nice decor and good service. Food is very tasty. Recommended!
More than acceptable!. Been three times and loved each occasion, menu is difficult for the uninitiated sushi eater. Having said that get the set menu and you will not go wrong. The saki is good and that is probably why I have enjoyed each occassion more and more. It is like all fish type resturants a little on the pricey side but I would not avoid it because of that. Very reserved and formal feel more so than any other sushi type resturant so the perfect place for a lunch meeting or even a romantic evening if you are a brave foodie.
Perfectly competent...if nothing more. Very acceptable meal here on Saturday night. Good looking restaurant, attentive staff (seems to be a family thing as what looked like Granny cleared our plates!) Complimentary, unidentifiable salad. Decent sake for £7 for 250ml. Teriyaki steak was beautifully cooked, if a little swamped by a too-sweet sauce. We had a platter with 9 different nigiri (including surf clam, octopus, scallop and bream) and 8 tuna/avocado maki. All fine, if not brilliant. Then uni (sea urchin) and ikura (salmon roe) nigiri. Good, but neither was overly generous with the topping.
So, absolutely fine, but not a destination place. Safe bet though if you're in Richmond, and we managed to get a table at 7 without a booking.
I cannot recommend this place enough. It's perfect for a romantic dinner, a casual meal with friends, or even a solo indulgence. Make sure to book a table in advance, as this place tends to get busy – and for all the right reasons!
It was truly an unforgettable dining experience. I'll definitely be coming back for more. Five stars all the way!
Me and my family came here for my 20th birthday. The team at Matsuba were so welcoming and made the evening really special. I will definitely be coming back for some tasty Japanese food!!
Excellent sushi 🍣, the fish is super fresh. The restaurant has a great atmosphere and the staff is super nice. There are several sushi sets, but also bento boxes. Really recommended.
We came to Matsuba on a busy Saturday night. Despite we had to wait for 30 minutes, we had a wonderful meal and time. Staff were really nice. We believe it was the best sushi meal we’ve ever had. The texture and taste of raw sushi fish of all kinds are remarkable in comparison to all other sushi restaurants and takeaways. We will definitely return.
Tasty fresh sushi. A nice little spot if you’re seeking a good meal in Richmond.
Top restaurant; excellent food quality and superb service, Japanese hospitality. Very pleased by the sushi and the rest of the menu. Fair price
What a first class restaurant! Had such an enjoyable meal here for a friends birthday. The sushi and sashimi was of some of the highest quality we've had and my wife had the black cod which was also superb. Service really great and ambiance stylish and welcoming. Will defo be back - often!
What a fantastic experience - food was absolutely lovely and beautifully presented; super friendly, helpful staff who helped to make a birthday celebration a truly fabulous night!! We will definitely be back!!!
Absolutely loved the place. The food was excellent so fresh, authentic and the service was outstanding. They cared us like family. It was worth waiting for 3 months refurbishment. The ambience of the place can't be beat, looks trendy and sleek. A REAL GEM! Highly recommend ‘Seasonal Tasting Meal’ to experience real Matsuba! New wine selection was fab too!
Service was excellent (!) and food not bad either (some of the fishes in taste were blend a bit though). Overall experience for an almost newby was very good and the atmosphere of the restaurant is cozy.
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