Sushi e

When it comes to upmarket Japanese eateries, Merivale's Sushi e is a leader among the pack. Head chef Nobuyuki Ura commands an expert team in this multi-award winning restaurant, right in the heart of the CBD.

Diners have the option of being seated around the sleek marble bar and treated to a front row view of the blowtorch-wielding chefs. Small low-lying tables against the back window offer a more intimate setting, while the comfy lounges out in the adjoining Hemmesphere Bar provide a more practical seating arrangement for bigger groups wanting to dine in.

No matter the size of your party, call ahead and make a booking. Both early and late sittings are frequently booked out, and it isn't hard to see why.  The service here is efficient and professional, and the standard of cuisine unparalleled. Impressive starters include their snapper sashimi (dressed in ginger, chives, sesame and a ponzu sauce), mouth-watering prawn shumai ($17.50) and flamed salmon belly nigiri ($7 each). Stand out sushi options include their generous soft shell crab hand rolls and the spicy tuna 'dynamite' roll ($18.50).

For those whose palette doesn't reside underwater, there are plenty of delicious meat and vegetarian options, including the succulent Wagyu 5 score beef ($48), Agedashi Tofu ($18), and the Balmain Bug Tempura – a veritable crowd favourite. Wash it all down with your choice of hot or cold sake, or a shochu-based cocktail.

While the Merivale empire keeps expanding its number of venues across Sydney, you should see for yourself why Sushi e has enjoyed enormous success ever since it first opened in 2000. It's pricey, there's no doubt about that, but it's an experience that can't be matched by your local sushi train. Save up your pennies and book for a quieter night to get your money's worth, otherwise you'll face a barrage of bar noise and possibly a wait for your food. For a more cost-effective and low-key alternative, head two blocks up the road to Sushi-Choo at the Ivy.