In the mood for Japanese style street food

Time is of the essence when it comes to the Japanese way of life, which is why food conveyor belts in restaurants

Taking inspiration from Japan's street food culture, YO! Sushi (across nine locations in Dubai) has introduced a variety of nibble-friendly dishes that are reminiscent of my visits to Tokyo. Time is of the essence when it comes to the Japanese way of life, which is why food conveyor belts in restaurants across the nation are highly appreciated by salarymen, who don't have a moment to enjoy a leisurely meal. The outlet at The Dubai Mall infuses this very concept in a vibrant décor with a lip-smacking range of experimental flavours.
First up is the Yasai Roll - a bundle of sliced inari (dried tofu), tamagoyaki (Japanese-style omelette), avocado, cucumber, and carrot - rolled into a nori (seaweed) and topped with teriyaki sauce and mayonnaise. The crunchiness of the vegetables paired with the softness of rice is a delectable wonder. Now, for someone who is a bit apprehensive about seafood, I was pleasantly surprised by the Fish Nanbanzuke, which is listed under their Honmono (authentic) hot food category. The medley of fish fillet fried in tempura batter then marinated in vinegar and onions, and placed over a bed of steamed rice and pickled vegetables imparted a mesmerising sweet and tart sensation. The Dynamite Roll too was a delight to the palate. The thinly sliced raw salmon, topped with avocado, Sriracha sauce, Rayu chilli oil, mayonnaise and spring onions, promises a melt-in-the-mouth experience as it unleashes a fusion of flavours upon the first bite itself.
 If you're feeling rather peckish, swing by for niblets of crispy marinated squid. Freshly battered and fried in a tempura mix, the taste comes very close to the ones served in izakayas (gastro-pubs) in Tokyo.
Itadakimasu! (That's Japanese for Bon Appétit)
Meal for two: Dh100
Will we go back?
Definitely, to try out Ebi or Tofu Katsu Curry, Popcorn Shrimp Tempura, and Strawberry Mochi
farhana@khaleejtimes.com
 A French Lunch
Bistro Des Arts, Dubai Marina, brings the pleasure of French 'terroir' cuisine to lunchtime. The new express lunch menu provides a simple answer to midday hunger that is light on the wallet. A selection of delicious dishes made with care will allow guests to savour the cuisine in a record time (in under 45 minutes). Highlights from the menu include a range of sandwiches made with freshly baked bread including The Aplinist with air-dried beef and Raclette cheese. You can choose from traditional Soupe or Plat du jour and sample one of their popular main courses such as the fresh Seabass Filet with ratatouille and vierge sauce served in a perfect lunch size portion.
Available between 12pm and 4pm, on weekdays
Unlimited Tacos
Loca is taking the Six Nations Championship very seriously. Not only will the sports bar be showing the rugby action, but also it will be 'taco-ling' the tournament by offering unlimited tacos for just Dh85, across its three outlets in the UAE. Soft shell or hard, stuffed with grilled Angus beef or spiced Kingfish and chipotle mayo - Loca's six-strong lineup of tacos are almost as famous as their freshly made guacamole.
Available until March 16, only when the Six Nations game is on
Burgers for brekkie
Classic Burger Joint, Dubai Media City, has introduced breakfast to their menu. You can start your day with a Butter Bun Cheese Omelette, Grilled Cheese Sandwich or Vegetable Omelette. For those with a sweet tooth, there is a nutella and banana burger too. We'll be spending our morning sampling the assortment of delicious burgers in potato buns, how about you?
Available between 9am and 12noon
Cuban flavours on wheels
El Cubano, the Cuban street food concept inspired by the movie Chef, is serving up authentic flavours of Latino culture at Marina Promenade. Fans of the cuisine should head straight to the truck and order the signature El Cubano Cuban sandwich, flaunting eight-hour slow cooked smoked brisket, smoked turkey, and Swiss cheese. On the lighter side, check out Empanadas De Carne and Empanadas De Guayaba y Queso - stuffed turnovers with smoked beef brisket or sweet red guava and halloumi cheese.

• Food and Dining