Wining and Dining Fresh sushi is back on menu at Orchid Plaza

l CAIRNS

FORMER Sushi Express Cairns is now trading as Orient Express Sushi Train at Orchid Plaza.

Bigger and better than ever, with new menus, a new atmosphere, and fully licensed for those looking for a drink or two, Orient Express Sushi Train is taking over Orchid Plaza.

Owners Dean Ward and Wanwisa Chaiwangban moved from Sydney in 2020 and saw the opportunity to give new life to the former Sushi Express at Orchid Plaza.

“We always wanted to come to Cairns and saw the former sushi site and thought ‘let’s have a go; there is great potential in this location’,” Mr Ward said.

“Orient Express Sushi Train’s philosophy is about freshly made, locally sourced food. The goal is to look after the locals going above and beyond to ensure our customers have a memorable dining experience.

“We are a family business; we are not a franchise. Everything we do, we do ourselves. This gives Orient Express Sushi Train the advantage of customising orders depending on dietary requirements or taste preferences.

“We now have a world-class product to offer people and have received a 5 out of 5 rating on Trip Advisor and recommended by Restaurant Guru,” he said.

Fresh colours and a new fit-out welcome diners into a warm space especially tailored for local customers.

“We wanted to position ourselves as a place where locals feel like they’re family; we understand that every customer is an individual and treat them that way,” Mr Ward said.

“We also source all our produce locally and seek to support other local businesses in the area.

“The seafood is brought in almost daily and filleted traditionally. We endeavour to keep a very high standard of freshness.”

With a menu designed to stand out from a crowded sushi market, Mr Ward took a page from his old rep days.

“You have to be prepared to try something new,” he said.

Mr Ward said clients who wanted something outside their large variety on the train and menu could ask for a customised order, and the chefs would cater for them if possible.

Orient Express is open Wednesday to Monday, 11am-2pm and 5.30pm-8pm, closing on Tuesday.