Bambi

Delicious Surprises Amidst Vibrant Culinary Adventure

Visiting Six by Nico, with its intriguing promise of culinary innovation at an affordable price point, was quite the foray into the world of theme-based tasting menus. The latest incarnation, themed around Tokyo, showcases Chef Nico Simeone's flair for merging familiar flavors with unexpected twists. Each dish aimed to evoke the spirit of Japan, and while some offerings, like the elusive yakitori ham jam accompanying the panko pork belly, achieved this with a fresh burst of imagination, others seemed lost in translation, lacking the requisite warmth both in temperature and soul. It's clear that the menu is designed to stir curiosity; however, when the outsized anticipation meets lukewarm reality, there is a play of contrasts that may not always sit well—as much so on the plate as in the dimly lit ambiance. Serving staff, though attentive and affable, appear overwhelmed at peak hours—a testament to the venue’s slender design and relentless pace.

Arriving amid the bright mirrored glint of decor-inspired collisions of Tokyo street chic and industrial rawness, it becomes apparent that pacing—not merely culinary quirks—is a challenge here. At times, dishes graze your palate without fully settling in, swept away by servers eager to maintain a brisk procession. The thoughtfully conceived wine pairings are indeed laudable and fulfilled their role well, shadowing dishes with flair, but alone neither they—nor the deft service team's earnest attempts—enough can mask timing lapses or abrupt transitions between courses. Perhaps due to intrinsic pressures or previewed urgency from past themes, the experience felt more theatrical rush than leisurely dining—a mild misstep at odds with otherwise commendable aspirations. While Six by Nico resonates with cleverly imagined intentions and offers glimpses of sophisticated tones, sustained refinement of sequence and veritable warmth in execution stand as opportunities waiting to shine brighter than all initial allure. — Nigel Gourmet