Specialising in pan-Asian cuisine, Okini’s menu balances house renditions of classics with new favourites created in their own kitchen, inspired by Thai, Malaysian, Japanese and Chinese specialties.

Chinese-Malaysian owner Terry Tan, who also owns Oriental Village in Portslade, wants to offer people Asian fusion food in slick, contemporary surroundings.

The restaurant is situated between Terre a Terre and Indian Summer, and its long, narrow front is dominated by a scarlet glass wall. A facing wall is splashed dramatically from floor to ceiling with oriental poppies, and the red colour scheme is offset by comfy cream chairs and a polished chrome cocktail bar. Every bit the modern establishment, mood lighting is computer-programmed to subtly synergise with the natural light outside, while the music is trendy and upbeat, driving a swift and efficient service.

The menu includes soups from £4; a Cantonese sizzling mixed seafood platter (£14); Tiger prawns (£10); and toasted golden land lobster (£20). Vegetarian dishes, sides and meat options are available.

“Presentation of our food is Japanese-style,” says Terry. “With clean lines and simple elegance.”

In homage to these values, the restaurant’s name – Okini – was chosen, as it is the Japanese word for “thank you”. Okini is geared towards the health-conscious consumer, although desserts such as the dark chocolate fondant (£5.50) and frozen Pandan leaves parfait, served with vanilla mascarpone and passion fruit coulis (£5.50) are inexpensive and more indulgent exceptions to the rule. “If, for example, you order lemon chicken, a lot of places would smother it in butter and fry it,” says Terry. “But we grill our meat as much as possible and ingredients are always fresh. We buy free-range chicken and organic pork. This is makes a big difference to the delicate flavours.”

The service is high quality, with friendly waiters on hand to answer your questions and bring over complimentary palate cleaners.

■ Okini offers a special evening

deal for £45, including a bottle of

house wine (from Thursday to

Sunday only).