Soy Good: we checked out Shio Nottingham’s hidden Japanese Gem at Six Richmond House

Step through the heavy-weighted, velvet curtains into the windowless bar and restaurant, and Six Richmond House could easily be an exclusive New York basement cocktail bar. Whether or not that was the intended vibe, it’s exactly what they’ve achieved with the intimate, low-lit atmosphere, cosy booths and an industrial edge, featuring open ceilings and exposed metal accents.

For me, it’s the ultimate date-night spot if you’re looking to be a little fancy (always, in my case). What elevates it further is the addition of Shio in the kitchen, serving modern-Asian small plates. Shio is the venture of chef Billy Mantle, a young chef whose experience with Asian-inspired cookery spans some years - I even recall a memorable trip to Carlton in lockdown to collect a Japanese sando from Albies back in the day.

I’d say this is a spot that, in my opinion, just does not get the recognition it deserves like some other restaurants in the city, and this is one of those food reviews that is easy to write. One of the perks - or drawbacks, depending on which way you look at it - of being a food writer is that I occasionally get to sample every dish on the menu (all in the name of research purposes, of course). 

Favourites comprised of the perfectly grilled, silky aubergine skewers cooked over the coals, and it may be a simple dish, but I couldn't stop bothering the refreshing Vermicelli noodle salad - the fragrant aroma of fresh herbs and zingy lime lifted the dish, making it impossible to put my fork down. The chargrilled broccoli with aged parmesan was a triumph of cheesy perfection too, alongside a perfect confit potato topped with Gruyere. Any chef who can turn humble vegetables into such standout dishes gets five stars from me.

For seafood lovers, the mildly spiced monkfish with Thai satay sauce was beautifully balanced and light. Meanwhile, meat dishes like the teriyaki beef onglet skewers packed bold flavours, and the giant pork cutlet grilled over coals was a showstopper – its succulent juices paired perfectly with a lustrous sansho pepper seasoning.

For those looking for something a little more familiar, crispy fried chicken or cauliflower with citrussy yuzu and shio sauce hit all the right notes. Everything had vibrant flavours and spot-on textures. And if you have room, don’t miss the Basque cheesecake – a perfectly indulgent way to end the meal, without it being too sweet.

Pair the above with any of Six Richmond’s cocktails (tip: try the Thai Colada if you visit) and you have a world-class meal.

Nottingham can proudly add another jewel to its crown because Shio deserves every bit of praise. I’ve dined here before, but my most recent visit truly blew me away – a testament to Billy Mantle’s creativity and growth in developing the menu. That, in itself, is something to celebrate.

Visit Six Richmond House at 6 Hurts Yard, Nottingham NG1 6JD

@sixrichmondhouse