Chai Pan

Here is a small Japanese oasis nestled in the sushi desert of Loughton.
This place is an easy win for groups — others who are not fans of raw fish can dine Italian-​style, as Chai Pan is 2 restaurants in 1, complete with 2 different seating areas and 2 separate menus. It doesn’t matter where you sit, you can order from both at the same time, without getting strange looks from the staff.
Fellow guests dine on burgers or pizza, while I stuff in the same thing every time with delicious monotony, Black cod in miso. The salmon sushi is also good.
You could even start with a completely off-​topic deep fried mozzarella with balsamic dip before diving in — but that option is probably best if you’re in a group, or (at least) starving.
Typical price £17 per head including the sharing «chocolate bento box» dessert and a pot of green tea. More if you want sake or wine.
The restaurant is rather lively, if you want a quieter experience ask to sit nearer to the back :-)