Dining at Starfish is an absolute joy. The thoughtfulness that has gone into the restaurant is truly impressive, and the food is superb.

The restaurant’s owned by the people behind Jetfresh, a premium seafood importing company, so it’s mostly seafood here. There are, however, meat, poultry and vegetarian options to keep everyone happy. The crab cake (¥76) is less breaded and more flavorful than most, served with two delicious herbed sauces. The shrimp cocktail (¥86), made with Vietnamese tiger prawns, is fresh and tasty enough to eat even without its accompanying lemon or horseradish sauce. Oyster lovers will be impressed by the excellent selection here, and prices are very reasonable. We especially recommend the creamy Kumamotos (¥42), and the smooth, sweet Virginica Misty Point oysters from Nova Scotia (¥37).

The cioppino soup (¥65) is another highlight. The thick, warming tomato and vegetable soup is filled with generous amounts of shrimp, squid, clams and scallops, and it’s better than renditions we’ve had in the U.S. For mains, the shrimp and polenta (¥108) is exceptional. The creamy polenta is topped with a lovely spicy tomato sauce and crisp shrimp. The presentation is great, and the taste is simply wonderful. The Atlantic flounder (¥139) comes recommended, but we found it bland compared to everything else we tried.

The chocolate mousse (¥45) is unmissable. This superlative dessert boasts a perfect texture and flavor and is served with an amazing raspberry sauce.

The design and colors maintain a maritime theme, and little details like music and utensils are all well done. Also brilliant is the fact that all tables come ready with a pretty glass bottle of complimentary drinking water.

Our rating: 5/5 stars

DETAILS

What: Starfish

Where: 22-1 Dongzhimenwai Dajie, 东直门外大街22-1号

Tel: 6416-5499

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