(Seychelles News Agency) - What do Seychelles and Japanese cuisine have in common? Hint: Both countries are island nations surrounded by bountiful waters. Yes, seafood! A staple food in Seychelles, fish is one of the main ingredients in making sushi.

Though sushi was not that popular in Seychelles even a few years ago, this Japanese cultural staple is really starting to catch on in Seychelles.

SNA shares a few places in Seychelles that make sushi. As a bonus we talked to two Seychellois who entertain their guests with this Japanese delicacy.

1. Coral Strand 

If you speak sushi language then you know what Dragon, Philadelphia and California are. These sumptuous maki rolls can be ordered at Coral Asia Restaurant.

Located at the popular Beau Vallon beach, you can enjoy your sushi and sake while admiring the turquoise coloured waters.  The restaurant opens daily from 12.00 p.m. to 10.00 p.m and you can choose between eating it on site or as a takeaway.

Cost: $4 - $65 depending on platter ordered.

Location: Coral Strand Hotel, Beau Vallon, Mahe.

(Coral Strand) Photo License: CC-BY

2. Four Seasons Resort Seychelles

Zez Lounge at Four Season Resort Seychelles has a menu that will sweep any sushi lover off their feet. They offer sashimi, vegetarian nigiri, nigiri sushi and so much more. 

If that is still not enough, the two sushi chefs also prepare miso soup and shrimp tempura.

Cost: Sushi menu is a la carte, but as a guide Four Season Resort offer a Chef's selection platter costing $72. 

Location: Petite Anse, Baie Lazare, Mahe

(Four Seasons Resort Seychelles) Photo License: CC-BY

3. La Dolce Vita

Well known for their ice creams and cakes, La Dolce Vita also makes sushi platter every day. These include various types of rolls and sushi. Salmon and rainbow reloaded are the best sellers.

You can enjoy your sushi platters from 11a.m. to 11p.m.

Cost: $9 - $55 depending on platter ordered.

Location: State House Avenue, Victoria, Mahe.

(Joe Laurence, Seychelles News Agency) Photo License: CC-BY

4. Chatterbox Café

On your mark, get set, go. Here you need to be hurry as its first come, first served. Sushi is limited in quantity and no orders are taken.

“They are sold out within an hour,” said the café owner Kirshlee Naidoo.

Sushi is available on Wednesdays and Saturdays.

You can buy a platter of 6, 12 or 18 pieces.

Cost: $12 - $34 depending of the amount bought.

Location: Shop 32, Eden Plaza, Eden Island, Roche Caiman, Mahe.

(Chartterbox/Facebook) Photo License: CC-BY

5. SPAR Eden Island

Don’t want to wait for the chefs to get your order ready? Pop by SPAR Eden Island for freshly made sushi.

It’s prepared every morning.

Planning to wow your guests with a Japanese specialty? Call them a week in advance and pre-order your platter of sushi.

Cost: $3.8 onward.

Location: Eden Island Plaza, Eden Island, Roche Caiman, Mahe.

(Salifa Magnan, Seychelles News Agency) Photo License: CC-BY

BONUS

Making sushi is an art and not many have the patience to learn it.

Two Seychellois share their experience.

1. Suresh Vidot

Vidot not only knows how to make them, but also invites friends over to feast on his work of art. A sea lover, Vidot catches his own fish or purchase fresh ones at Oceana Fisheries.

He uses other ingredients such as wasabi, rice, rice vinegar, ginger and seaweed wraps are obtained at ISPC Supermarket.

“My male friends love the tuna sushi whereas the ladies prefer theirs with crabsticks,” says Vidot.

(Suresh Vidot) Photo License: CC-BY

2. Michael Hissen

Hissen learned it by watching videos on Youtube.com and getting tips from the professionals.

“It’s not the easiest kitchen style but it can be done with lots of patience and practice,” said Hissen

Having a preference for imported salmon, Hissen also buys fish locally.

Sushi night is a weekly treat at his household and most of his guests enjoy the spicy tuna maki roll and prawns tempura maki roll.

“I am a huge fan of tasty fresh food and would love to have my own sushi bar or a mixed Asian restaurant,” said Hissen.

(Michael Hissen) Photo License: CC-BY