The staff, mostly of varied Asian ethnicity were busy but friendly. However, Satsuma is not really the place to settle in for a leisurely, comfortable meal. But that's missing the point. Satsuma recognises the need for people on the move, perhaps on their way to and from the theatre, to recharge their batteries before a spot of clubbing, perhaps. There's a good choice from a not too expensive menu.
Complete meals come in pretty lacquered bento boxes on their matching trays.
Served with the traditional bowl of Miso soup, it was all pretty authentic, except for the liberal garnishes which used lots of very Euro-lettuce leaves. This was a bow to Western presentation which I found acceptable if a little over the top. There was a huge bowl of Seafood Ramen - fine noodles in a delicious broth with lots of prawns, mussels in their shells and little sweet flavoured scallops. This would make a substantial main dish for someone with quite an appetite. They both tasted and looked splendid, set on one of those lovely square Japanese dishes with a gently curving surface on which the chef had painted the sauce like Japanese calligraphy, a clever touch that distanced itself for usual fast food philosophy.