Edamame is a hidden gem that offers something a little bit different. Authentic Japanese cuisine served in friendly, pleasant surroundings – well worth a visit.

The Venue
Edamame is half way along Holywell street in a quiet residential area, within an easy 10 minute stroll of both the city centre and the University Parks. However, it's worth checking the exact location on a map before going. The restaurant itself is small and brightly lit with an assortment of tables crammed into every available corner.

The Atmosphere
Once inside you will inevitably join a queue. They don't take bookings so this is to be expected, but don't be put off, the queue moves remarkably quickly and the menus are displayed on the walls so you can decide what you'd like to eat before sitting down.

The atmosphere is gently captivating with a lively buzz of conversation. Seating is on stools and you'll find yourself sharing a table with other diners as is customary in Japan; this really adds to the friendly and intimate feel and can greatly enhance your dining experience. However, it means it's not the ideal place for a first date! The staff are friendly and efficient and your food is always with you swiftly.

The Food
A couple of important things to note before visiting Edamame; firstly their opening hours vary and, secondly, you should be aware that different menus operate on different nights. The lunch menu offers dishes such as deep-fried breaded chicken - chikin katsu teishoku (£7.50) - and yasai itame teishoku (£6), which is stir-fried mixed seasoned vegetables. All are served as a complete meal with rice and miso soup.

The evening menu (Friday and Saturday) has a larger selection, with several meat, fish and vegetarian options and a selection of specials. Highlights include the salmon teri (£8) – marinated in teriyaki and poached to delicate perfection, and the satsumaage (£6) -Japanese fish cakes which are fresh and clean and come with a tangy chilli sauce. They also do some marvellous things with beef if you look out for the specials boards.

Main dishes and specials cost in the £6 to £8 range, and there's usually one or two specials on. You can add Japanese sticky rice and a range of salads and side dishes for a modest £3. Thursday night is sushi night and Edamame has a varied menu of dishes, ranging from £2-£3 for the sushi and £7 for the sashimi. Everything is carefully prepared and will please your eyes as well as your tastebuds.

The Drink
The wine list doesn't extend beyond red/white, but it's not that kind of place – instead they offer Asahi beer (£2.50) served in small, ice cold glasses or warm sake that you drink from tiny ochoko cups which you get to choose from a selection. It's £3.50 for a small sake or £6 for a large.

They also offer a choice of Japanese cocktails - shotchu vodka with soda water and freshly squeezed grapefruit or chilled oolong tea. If you're driving, there's a good range of soft drinks and traditional Japanese teas.

The Last Word
A charming restaurant offering beautifully cooked food with delightfully crisp clean flavours. Attention to detail and caring about 'the little things' hugely enhance the experience. Not somewhere you'd go for a long leisurely lunch, but the perfect place for a quick, great tasting meal that's worth every penny.

venue information venue map view oxford review user reviews (1)