These traditional delicacies, made with Japanese rice and raw fish or seafood, have long captured her attention because of their delicate balance of flavours, artistry and precision.
“I tried to make sushi in the inarizushi style, since I don’t really like the taste of seaweed,” Sharmini, 32, told FMT Lifestyle about her love for sushi.
“I then became a bit addicted to it! And I thought, why not try to do this in the Indian style, maybe by infusing tastes of tandoori or butter masala?”
So she began experimenting, eager to find just the right balance of Japanese and Indian flavours in her inventive creations.
Encouraged by the enthusiastic response from friends and family, she started selling her treats at a local bazaar, where they quickly proved popular.
Today, everyone can enjoy her signature fusion “sooshi” at the newly-opened “The Sweet Tooth Cafe” in Subang Jaya, Selangor, where Sharmini continues to share her unique take on Japanese-inspired delicacies.
This is perhaps the most natural step for her as Sharmini is an avid baker who has been crafting wedding and birthday cakes for about 12 years now.
“I never planned to open at this location. But I happened to visit here, and saw this spot was empty, and thought it would be a great opportunity,” she said eagerly.
Named after Sharmini’s love of candies and other sweet treats, the cosy venue pays homage to all her favourite things.
Its interior is washed in a vibrant shade of pink, her signature colour choice, while a large mural of Sharmini peers down from the main wall, adding a personal and playful touch.
The “sooshi” here comes in four varieties: paneer masala, butter chicken, aloo masala and tandoori chicken. True to Sharmini’s tastes, these are crafted in the inarizushi style, or wrapped in fried tofu pouches.
All food here is Muslim-friendly.
Combining Japanese rice with distinctive Indian spices may seem unusual at first, but the “sooshi” brings both culinary traditions together in a surprisingly cohesive way.
The first bite may feel a little unfamiliar on the palate, but it gradually gives way to an appreciation of this new blend of flavours.
As the sooshi can occasionally feel a little dry on its own, it is best enjoyed with the accompanying tangy lime sauce, which adds a bright, refreshing lift to the experience.
The chicken tandoori is one of the more popular choices here, its smoky chicken chunks elegantly elevated by robust spices and a tinge of mint.
FMT Lifestyle’s personal favourite though, is the aloo masala version because its spiced potatoes and cumin bring a warm, comforting depth to every bite.
If you feel like a more conventional meal, “The Sweet Tooth Cafe” serves other dishes inspired by another Asian region – Korea.
Their Korean mash series features generous portions of Korean-style popcorn chicken served atop a rich, creamy bed of mashed potatoes.
A clear crowd-pleaser, the dish is likely to satisfy even the pickiest of eaters. It comes in two variations: the spicy Korean (which can be quite fiery, so beware!) and the Soy Garlic option, which offers a more mellow yet equally memorable dining experience.
Also available on the menu are a variety of drinks, ranging from favorites such as cappuccino and flat white to more exquisite fare such as Coffee Honey Lime and Strawberry Milk. Of course, there’s no beating a good cup of Madras Bru Coffee!
The café which just opened in mid-May, has been receiving good response so far, and Sharmini hopes more people will come to try her inspired take on fusion foods.
“Come and try something unique. I don’t think you can get this anywhere else! So step into ‘The Sweet Tooth Cafe’ and I hope you have a great time,” Sharmini concluded.
The Sweet Tooth Cafe
45, Jalan USJ 10/1F
Taipan Business Centre
Subang Jaya
Selangor
Business hours: 9.30am–9pm (Closed on Tuesday)
For more information, follow The Sweet Tooth Cafe on Instagram.