Review of Shibumi – by Anna G.

I used to enjoy the old Shibumi on Kungstensgatan so I got curious about trying this new edition. Then I got worried based on a few mixed reviews. I ended up positively surprised. I wish I could give the place a 4.5 stars as both the service and the food were delicious. We ordered a lot of dishes to share and were disappointed by none. Each serving was something new and intriguing. Not much in common with the old Shibumi but yummy. Perhaps a little less refined. Some of the dishes were on the small side (tofu where are you?) but others were good portions, completely shareable. The desserts sounded unappealing but again we were positively surprised.

So why not 5 stars? I think the atmosphere could still improve a bit. In the other reviews I heard it was really loud. That was definitely not the case when we were there (a Thursday evening); there was some music but we could hear each other well. On the contrary, it felt a little empty and a little messy. The toilet has beer kegs in it and we sat next to something that looks like a glass-walled wine cellar but it also serves as a storage room. I was also irritated by the lack of napkins. I get the ambition to create an “authentic” isakaya feel. But at this price point, I think I’m entitled to having a proper cloth napkin. Also, small detail, but they didn’t have any proper sparkling water. Only “Vichy” which is quite salty. What’s wrong with regular (free!) bubblevatten?

So all in all: good food, great service. 4 stars well earned. If I get a proper napkin, some nice regular sparkling water and the atmosphere perks up a tad, it will be a 5. I’ll be back to check soon.