&Sushi

&Sushi is a new trendy place that has recently made its way onto Teed Street in Newmarket, just because Auckland didn't have enough Japanese spots to choose from obviously. However, this little hole-in-the wall-takes sushi to a whole new level.

Situated next to Ingrid Starnes and Petal Cupcakes, this Japanese joint has some pretty attractive neighbours. Holding its place, &Sushi is one stylish lunch spot. The decor fits the current trend of stripped-back with an abundance of natural colours, bleached wood and a few succulents here and there. It's got a great casual vibe and isn't a disappointment on the taste-buds either with a vast selection of delectable treats.

More than your average sushi spot, there's pastel-coloured rice paired with pale pink salmon, sauce droppers carefully placed into summer rolls, fresh flowers and strawberries for garnish. The list was endless and each roll resembling a perfect piece of tantalising rice art. I considered getting myself another box just so I could try each one of their interesting little creations (the strawberry, cream cheese tofu roll was surprisingly delicious).

&Sushi not only rolls out immaculate looking sushi, they have a fully fledged menu complete with equally appealing donburi, noodles and delicious sides like agedashi tofu and gyoza dumplings. The sizing of the sushi is more authentic than the western style circulating of late, so you may need a few extra pieces to get your full fix; the heartier dishes on their menu seemed to be the go to for most hungry men in the place, with a few pieces of the pretty sushi on the side making the perfect, food-baby creating meal.

As a self-proclaimed sushi expect, this joint definitely takes the cake, or rather the salmon spring roll. Its prime location also makes it the ideal sushi pitstop during a day of shopping in Newmarket.