The Japanese-Californian Fusion Restaurant Charming Parisians for Over a Decade

Located in the heart of Paris’ 2nd arrondissement, the restaurant Rice & Fish has been tickling taste buds since its opening in 2008, offering fusion sushi recipes that meet somewhere between Japan and California.

They might be miles apart, but Japan and California are both present on the plate. Rice & Fish, run by a Californian who trained under a Japanese chef, was one of the Parisian pioneers to import the concept of fusion food from the United States. He specialises in traditional sushi, mixing it up with eel or smoked trout, each dish more appetizing than the next.

The culinary journey begins as soon as you step inside; diners are met with a fresco of vibrant colours giving the immersive experience of being in a Tokyo street dedicated to culinary delights. The service, meanwhile, is impeccable, with smiling waiters and sound advice. It nonetheless remains a difficult task to make the final choice; to go with Krunchy (prawns tempura, avocado, cucumber, fried leeks) or Creamy Scallops (scallops tartare, aioli, tobiko, avocado)? Or what about sushi Chenille (avocado, eel, mystery sauce)…

During the lunch service reasonably priced set menus offer a sushi fix that won’t break the bank. For just ten euros you are able to dine on a maki set of your choice, a vegetable maki set, a miso soup and a small salad. For those wishing to further indulge, there are iced mochis or a light green tea cheesecake.

As a marker of its unfailing success over the years, Rice & Fish has diversified, opening a second establishment dedicated exclusively to ramen on the same street. In September 2018, Fish and Chill by Rice & Fish was born. Located in the 10th arrondissement of Paris, the menu boasts sushi, Japanese burgers or reworked fish ‘n’ chips with its inimitable Rice & Fish sauce.