Visit Helsinki: Mashiro

When a sweet couple, Simon and Annika had a dream about a restaurant where all of their friends would like to hang out, something small but vibrant with the good atmosphere, delicious food and their favorite music, little did they knew that the dream was about to come true very soon!?

The dream was called Mashiro and it came to life on the main street of an area called Vallila. Think Brooklyn of New York! All of the hip, cool new places seem to open up in about that area of the city.

Since I’m very much sure that I have been a Japanese woman in my previous life, my daughter is a mini Japanese woman in training and my husband being the pickiest eater and lover of Japanese cuisine, it is only natural that we are always “all eyes and ears” when we get to know about new Japanese restaurants in the city. Usually, they’re quite disappointing sushi buffets that a Japanese person would never come near by, but sometimes, those are also quite surprising new places that DO deliver on every level, most importantly the taste, freshness and authenticity.

Upon arrival to Mashiro we were greeted by the three musketeers behind the counter, mr. Simon being the main chef there. Since the lunch time was just over, we have enjoyed peaceful vibe with a nice wintery view through the window while waiting for our food. I love the fact that the kitchen is completely open and you get to see the guys in action while they’re prepping your dish. All of the ingredients are fresh, stored and used properly.

We had a chance to try three different dishes: Salmon aburidon ( flamed salmon on the bed of rice), Mashiro salad (flamed salmon, prawns, egg, avocado, and wakame served with mixed salad and wafu dressing ) and Japanese Udon noodles with chicken ( in a spicy broth with mushrooms, cabbage, nori and egg ).

Every single bite of every dish was a “melt in my mouth” kind of experience. Salmon and chicken were so tender and of the highest quality, prepared with love. We could totally taste it! Healthy, rich in flavor and comforting food on a cold winter day was just what we needed and have found in Mashiro! If you want to taste the magic of their donburis, please do stop by, you won’t regret it and your wallet won’t complain either. 😀

*This post was made in collaboration with Mashiro. All of the opinions are my own.

*Thank you Annika for making this collaboration happen!

*Photography by: Natali K. photography