A Sushi Masterclass At Lucky Cat

Lucky Cat by Gordon Ramsay is a sophisticated Asian-inspired restaurant in the heart of Mayfair (also in Manchester).  Drawing inspiration from the energy of 1930s Tokyo kissas and Shanghai drinking dens, it effortlessly merges vintage glamour with contemporary flair. The restaurant's design and atmosphere take you to a bygone era of allure and intrigue while maintaining an intimate, exclusive feel.

Upon entering, you’re greeted by a stunning interior featuring intricate brass screens, antique mirrors, black bamboo panelling, and Japanese indigo-dyed fabrics. These design elements create a luxurious feel. At the rear of the restaurant is its open kitchen, and it was here, at the Chef's Table, that I attended the Sushi Masterclass, under the guidance of their expert chefs.

I learnt some of the traditions and techniques of making sushi. From the seemingly simple yet foundational art of preparing sushi rice to the intricacies of slicing sashimi and shaping nigiri, the experience was hands-on and educational. Far from being just about cutting fish, sushi-making is a meticulous craft that balances precision, artistry, and respect for tradition. 

The masterclass began with an introduction to sushi rice preparation. While it can seem daunting in theory, the chef’s demonstration made it feel doable, though, in this session, the rice is prepared for you. As the rice cooked, we were treated to a tasting of freshly sliced sashimi, each accompanied by a different wasabi, each offering its own level of kick. The chef explained the essential techniques of fish preparation, from selecting the best fillets to achieving the perfect slice, emphasising how each detail contributes to the final product.

I’ll admit, I’m not naturally gifted when it comes to crafting things with my hands. Shaping the rice for nigiri proved challenging, requiring a balance of pressure and technique that I struggled to master. Under the patient guidance of the chefs, however, I began to improve, though I quickly realised this is a skill perfected over years. On the other hand, rolling maki turned out to be a revelation. The process felt intuitive, and I was proud of the neat, well-balanced rolls I managed to create. Not only did they look the part, but they tasted exceptional!

While I won’t spoil every detail of the experience, it’s worth saying this masterclass is an ideal activity to share with a partner or friends. It’s interactive, engaging, and ultimately satisfying, not just in the culinary sense, but also in the knowledge and skills you take away. By the end, I left feeling nourished in every way, both by the delicious creations we made and the knowledge gained.

As a thoughtful touch, we left with a memento of our time at Lucky Cat, a small gift to take home. 

The masterclass is available to book here or by contacting their reservations team on 0207 107 0000