Kanpai
8 - 10 Grindlay Street Edinburgh, Midlothian EH3 9AS
Kanpai literally means 'bottoms up' in Japanese, which is perhaps appropriate since one of Edinburgh's newest Japanese eateries is already toasting success less than a year after opening, having bagged Best Newcomer at the List Magazine's 2012 Eating & Drinking Awards. Kanpai makes a strong first impression, with unusually slick, design-conscious interiors. The food holds up remarkably well too. There's a broad seelction of fresh sushi, tempura and sashimi on offer, all fizzing in primary colours, plus a few satisfying staples, such as their Teppan Teriyaki Salmon, and, definitely the star attraction, the Teppan Sirloin, which is presented with no small measure of theatricality, gently smoked over a palm leaf sat atop a traditional clay candle burner. Things are topped off by a small, but judicious, selection of Japanese beers and sakes. Just across from the Royal Lyceum Theatre, and great for both pre- and post-theatre diners.
