[Review] Sushi Express x Zermatt Neo Launches Zi Char-Inspired Sushi

In celebration of National Day, Sushi Express has teamed up with local competitive eater and foodie Zermatt Neo for a playful twist on beloved zi char flavours and I had the chance to try them before they officially hit the conveyor belt.

This limited-time Zi Char Shiok series, running from 1 July to 31 August across all Sushi Express outlets, reimagines iconic hawker favourites with a Japanese flair. Think: local flavours, fresh seafood, and a dash of nostalgia all wrapped up as sushi.

As a longtime abalone fan, I was especially excited about the Salted Egg Abalone. Served on shell and grilled with a rich salted egg sauce, it was a punchy, indulgent bite balanced with crispy salted egg bits and red chilli slices — familiar yet refreshing.

The Cereal Prawn was another standout. It reminded me of home. It’s a dish my mum used to cook growing up, so this one felt particularly nostalgic. Sushi Express uses juicy Argentine shrimp, brushed in garlic butter and topped with crispy cereal, a light drizzle of condensed milk, and a hint of red chilli. The result? Sweet, savoury, and incredibly fragrant.

The third item, Sweet & Sour Fish, was a burst of flavour with every bite. Wrapped hanamaki-style with fresh salmon, it combined chunks of swordfish, pineapple, onions, and peppers. The sweet and sour sauce tied everything together — juicy, tangy, and layered in flavour.

Meeting Zermatt Neo in person made the experience extra special. Hearing him talk about his love for zi char and how this collaboration came to life added so much heart to the meal. This series is a thoughtful fusion that celebrates local culture in a fun, accessible way.

And if you’re feeling brave, Sushi Express is also running a Big Eater Challenge alongside the launch. Inspired by Zermatt’s own eating feats, the challenge is open to the public — anyone who breaks his record eats for free and walks away with $500 in cash.

Whether you are a zi char enthusiast or just curious to try something new, this special series is worth a visit for something fun and different.