I tried the delicious new Wagamama menu and the cocktails are absolutely stunning

If like me you are guilty of ordering the same thing every time you visit your local Wagamama, I have the perfect recommendations, especially if you are a total katsu curry fiend like me. I absolutely adore Wagamama, but I always seem to play it safe every time I visit.

Now there's nothing wrong with sticking to your guns and ordering a good old katsu curry, it is a cult classic for a reason. However, it's good to branch out, and when it comes to unique dishes and pan Asian cuisine, Wagamama is a go to.

If it's a light bite or a substantial dinner you're after, Wagamama has you covered. This autumn, it's launched a new selection of mouth watering dishes and drinks on the menu that'll tingle your taste buds.

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So if you're in need of some inspiration, or are thinking of sacking off cooking tonight and trying something new, you have come to the right place. Without further ado, here is what you should order the next time you visit Wagamama.

To drink

I was blown away by my exceptional choice in cocktails, after picking Breakfast in Tokyo. It really is that good - I haven't stopped talking about it since. It's made with zesty papaya gin featuring blood orange flavours and yuzu sherbet topped with organic prosecco. Heavenly.

My partner ordered the Spicy Mary, which is Wagamama’s twist on the classic boozy beverage, made with haku vodka, tomato juice, soy, teriyaki and spices. This will warm your cockles on a chilly winter day.

To start

First we started with something light, opting for the koko ‘prawn’ crackers. I had no idea these were a vegan alternative, but I'd dare say this snack was miles better than your traditional prawn cracker.

Following the crunchy snack, we shared the hot honey fried chicken coated in yuzu sauce. This is not to be missed, believe me, and vegans can also join in with a meat-free option. It's sweet, sour, spicy with a sticky coating drizzled over crisp chicken. The sauce melts in your mouth, it's divine.

We also shared four bao buns which were soft and doughy with slow cooked pork belly in crispy panko crumb coated apple with sriracha and vegan mayo. Honestly, we could have easily just dined on sharing snacks and drunk cocktails all night!

The main

I had to try the marinated chicken thigh coconut kare, one of Rahel Stephanie's creations. Rahel, also known as 'Spoons', grew up in Indonesia and flavours the sambal curry with tomato and chilli sauce.

With this dish, the sauce was really fresh and light, you can taste the goodness. The chicken thigh was succulent and covered in crunchy batter. On the side was half a boiled egg with runny yolk you could dip the chicken in, and a neat mound of coconut rice.

If you're not a meat eater, you can also enjoy a hoki fish version, or vegan chicken. The big push for vegan alternatives is great to see, making Wagamama an inclusive place to dine with groups of people.

We visited the Walton branch, in New Zealand Avenue at The Heart Shopping centre, where the staff were very friendly. We were looked after by Aaryav who was a great host and made sure to regularly check back at our table.

Overall impression

It's time to switch up your Wagamama game and try something new. Whether it's a three course dinner or nibbles and gorgeous cocktails, Wagamama is the place to go.

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