Sibuya Torrevieja – First Impressions
We visited Sibuya Torrevieja on Tuesday afternoon after hearing that the new Paseo del Mar development had opened. We were keen to see what the centre had to offer and, although there was little that immediately appealed to us, two restaurants caught our attention. One of them was Sibuya, a brand we know well, having enjoyed meals at both their Albacete and Seville restaurants on several occasions. The decision of where to eat was therefore an easy one.
Arrival
We arrived at around 3:00 pm and were welcomed by a professional and friendly manager, who offered us a choice of tables. We chose a table towards the rear of the restaurant, although in hindsight this proved to be a mistake. At the table opposite, a manager appeared to be carrying out administrative work using a laptop and paperwork on a fully laid dining table. Throughout our meal, members of staff regularly gathered around him to discuss what appeared to be schedules and other work-related matters.
Table Selection
Although we selected the table ourselves, I do not believe guest tables should be used as office space during service. It detracts from the dining experience and encourages unnecessary staff activity in close proximity to customers who are trying to enjoy their meal.
Our drinks order was taken promptly and served without delay. However, after that, service stalled completely. We waited for approximately 30 minutes before eventually attracting the attention of a server to place our food order.
Our Food Order
We ordered the Atún Tartar (€14.90) and the Freestyle Sushi Set (52 pieces – €65.90). The tartar was attractively presented in a small bowl resting on a larger bowl filled with ice. While visually appealing, the portion was extremely small for the price charged and, in our opinion, represented poor value.
The Freestyle Sushi Set was exactly that—a chef’s selection. The quality of the rice was excellent, and several pieces were beautifully prepared. However, more than half of the selection contained cream cheese. This is, of course, a matter of personal taste, but I find that cream cheese overwhelms the more delicate flavours of the fish and rice, leaving many pieces tasting remarkably similar.
Hidden Gum
Unfortunately, the meal was overshadowed by another unpleasant discovery. My partner found chewing gum stuck underneath our table, clearly left behind by a previous guest. It was an off-putting moment that should never occur, particularly in what is still a relatively new restaurant. The customer toilets were clean, but the floor was noticeably dirty. Again, for a newly opened establishment, I would have expected greater attention to detail and a stronger sense of pride in maintaining the restaurant’s presentation.
Perhaps the biggest surprise was that the restaurant was not busy. There were plenty of staff on duty, so the slow service and cleanliness issues were difficult to understand.
Overall, we left disappointed. We know Sibuya is capable of delivering an excellent dining experience because we have enjoyed it elsewhere. On this occasion, however, the Torrevieja restaurant fell well below the standard we have come to expect from the brand.
Address: Centro de ocio Paseo del Mar, 03181 Torrevieja, Alicante
Phone: 865 48 78 28
Menu: amikasa.sibuyaurbansushibar.com
Hours: 12:00 to 23:00