THERE can't be many takeaways where you get to watch your food being freshly prepared while you wait.

As I arrived to pick up a combo sushi set at Sapporo Ichiban, a Japanese restaurant in Catford with an open plan kitchen, the chef was still slicing away at my order.

I waited patiently with the sound of the sushi knife ringing in my ears like an Uma Thurman scene in Kill Bill.

Moments later my food was presented to me by an expressionless member of staff who clearly thought her face would crack if she smiled.

The advantage of a sushi takeaway is you do not have to worry about your food getting cold.

But unless my order shrank on the bus journey home, the quantity was not as the picture on the menu suggested.

Sapporo Ichiban offers a comprehensive menu of all types of Japanese food including bento boxes, curries, ramen and of course sushi.

There is also a 10 per cent discount on all collected takeaways over £15.

This brought my combo sushi set - 12 pieces of nigiri, six pieces of California roll and four large fashion sandwiches - from the listed price of £20.80 down to £18.90.

You are spoilt for choice on a colourful menu displaying images of all the different foods you can order - including a Catford Roll.

As a keen sushi eater, I wasn't disappointed although as to be expected with sushi, it wasn't cheap.

If you're looking to sample a wide selection of Japanese cuisine in south east London, Sapporo Ichiban is well worth the trip.

FOOD **** Spoilt for choice and the sushi was tasty.

SERVICE ** Smile - it doesn't hurt. I wasn't kept waiting for long.

INTERIOR/DECOR ***** Open plan kitchen, attractive dining area if you want to eat in.

Sapporo Ichiban Address: 13 Catford Broadway, SE6 4SP Tel: 020 8690 8487 Online: sapporoichiban.co.uk