A HAUTE JAPANESE HOT SPOT: ZUMA

The modern Japanese cuisine at its best. That's what Zuma delivers. Zuma brings a sophisticated twist on the traditional Izakaya style of informal dining. The Japanese menu is extensive and everyhting on it sounds too good to be true, so it might take a while once you've decided what to take.

I myself visited Zuma in Hong Kong and London and since then it is one of my favourite restaurants in the world. Besides the two cities I just mentioned the restaurant is also situated in Dubai, Miami and Bankok and from mid May also in Beirut. In all settled cities Zuma is a resounding success.

The sleek interior consisting of lots of glass, steel and light wood gives this global hot spot an open, fresh, airy, modern and chic ambiance. Because of the spacious design Zuma feels impressively interactive, which is one of the reasons the bar is always crowded, every night of the week. After dining the elan crowd settles down at Zuma's bar area for some tasty cocktails. Not feeling cocktailish? Treat yourself to one of the 40 sakes Zuma has to offer.

For those who want more privacy, Zuma also offers Private Rooms, where select groups could dine and have their own private affair.

I'm really fond of Hong Kong's Zuma. Dining here is perfect, because it's located next to The Landmark, which is one of the most prestigious shopping malls in Hong Kong. Starving from shopping - no matter if it's window or real shopping - you can sit down and enjoy the exquisite food provided by Zuma's skilled chefs.

My menu's favourite at Zuma is the Zuma Nigiri Sushi (with trufle, plum, wagyu beef and caviar). Can't decide what to order? Indulge in the new tasting menu. This menu exists of six or seven courses that includes miso soup, maki, sashimi, lobster, black cod and more. It all comes with fresh wasabi, grated at your table. Not to forget: take at least one of the desserts. They are all unbeatable delicious!

Martin Archer | Asia-Bars.com

At Zuma it's all about detail, whether it's in dining requests, food quality, ambiance, design or attentive staff. Hopefully Zuma will establish itself in Amsterdam one day. Thinking of this makes my mouth water.

Visit Zuma virtually by clicking here.