A local band once said: “if I hadn’t seen such riches, I could live with being poor”. This reminds me of sushi. Once you’ve had it in Japan, everywhere else pales in comparison.

However, those of us who crave the stuff hunt the next best thing in our hometowns. In Manchester, that is Sushi Marvel.

Like the restaurant itself, the menu is small but formidable. Start with the legendary hairy prawns (£7.50). These plump, juicy crustaceans come wrapped in shredded crunchy pastry and are seriously irresistible.

It would be criminal not to sample the wagyu nigiri (£15.00 for two pieces). A sirloin cut of the highest-grade A5 beef melts in the mouth and unleashes a flavour like no other.

For something unforgettable, go for an underbelly cut of the world’s most expensive and sought-after fish, bluefin tuna, or otoro. This is the stuff that gets Tokyo’s elite restauranteurs out of bed at 3am and into pre-sunrise bidding wars at the world-famous Toyosu Market.  

Otoro is best enjoyed as sashimi, or nigiri (£11.00 for two pieces).

Sushi platters start at £25.00 and include salmon, seabass, tuna and scallop. For substantial goodness, try the dons, or rice bowls. The spicy karaage (£12.50) or unagi eel don (£18.00) are firm hits. Follow with crispy tofu mochi (£5.20).

The carefully selected wine menu is truly standout. I recommend a glass, or a bottle, of Kung Fu Girl, a Reisling specially made to complement Asian flavours.

How many courses was that? Who’s counting? Enjoy.