By Vivienne Pearson
New ownership of Sabi Sushi is heralding some change but keeping the underlying elements loved by locals the same.
One of only three sushi trains in the Byron Shire, Sabi’s name and train will remain. The team are also staying, a testament to the amicable nature of the change of ownership. ‘We have become good friends,’ says new owner Johnny Carter, a business owner and speaker on the topic of the ‘Law of Attraction’, of previous owner Jeremy Martin.
The high-quality sushi will also remain, thanks to the team of sushi chefs led by Alex Melzer. Additions will focus on further upping the beauty of sushi, including the introduction of ‘purple rice’ – created by cooking black and white rices together.
Other food will also receive a boost, thanks to main kitchen chef Bruno Gomes, with the aim of continuing the variety offered for breakfast and creating a ‘sit and stay’ dinner trade. Both Alex and Bruno are from Brazil, a fact that might seem odd until you realise that Brazil is home to the biggest Japanese population outside Japan. ‘They are really into fusion sushi in Brazil,’ says Alex, echoing Sabi’s plans to become a Japanese fusion restaurant.
Making Sabi more of a dinner destination has prompted plans to enclose the outdoor seating area and introduce beer on tap and cocktails. A more regular closing time will help locals have the confidence to make last-minute dinner plans (the kitchen will be open until 7pm each night) and Sunday shoppers will be delighted to find that the team have just decided to open seven days.
Sabi Sushi – Ocean Shores Shopping Centre. Open seven days, 7.30am–7pm (kitchen close time). Facebook: @sabisushicafe
The Sabi team – including John Carter (4th from left), Alex Melzer (far left), Bruno Gomes (3rd from left) and manager Darrelle O’Brien (4th from right) – photo credit Vivienne Pearson.
