Considering the abundance of new Japanese culinary establishments emerging in every nook and cranny of London, selecting the ideal dining spot may prove to be quite a challenging task. London offers an array of dining options, including izakaya, sushi bars, shabu-shabu, and robata grills, making the decision even more daunting. To help you in your quest for an exceptional Japanese dining experience, we have carefully curated a list of the top 20 Japanese restaurants in London.
While exploring the diverse gastronomic landscape of London, it is essential to embrace the authentic flavors and ambiance of Japanese cuisine. Whether you are an aficionado of sushi delicacies, in search of traditional izakaya fare, or seeking the bold flavors of robata grills, our selection encompasses a variety of dining experiences.
1. Sushi Kanesaka at 45 Park Lane
Japanese omakase is having its moment in London, and Sushi Kanesaka is the latest and most exciting addition to this culinary love affair. Hailing from Tokyo’s bustling Ginza district, chef Shinji Kanesaka has brought his Japanese roots and Edomae sushi style, a technique where fish is cured to let its true flavours shine, to Mayfair’s 45 Park Lane. The restaurant, a striking contrast to the dimly lit Art Deco interiors of London’s famed hotel, respectfully showcases the elegance and simplicity of traditional Japanese architecture and hospitality. A geisha greets you by the Noren curtains, unveiling the floor-to-ceiling cedar wood designs. It continues in each private dining room and culminates in the nine-seat room, where a single-carved rare hinoki wood counter steals the spotlight. The chefs, all from different parts of Japan, exude their passion for their homeland as they delicately dance the art of sushi making right in front of you. In the 90-minute experience, the chefs prepare 18 courses with ingredients carefully picked and flown in almost daily from across Europe and Asia. For those who might prefer something more intimate, or who are looking to extend their stay in London, the boutique hotels around Hyde Park on http://hyde-park-boutique.hotels-of-london.com/en/ offer the perfect retreat after savouring the exquisite tastes of Sushi Kanesaka.
Omakase loosely translates to “chef's choice", meaning whatever is served will likely be at its prime. We started with shredded Cornish crab with soy sauce jelly and Beluga caviar, followed by lashings of nigiri. From fatty tuna and shiromi (white fish) from Spain to squid from Portugal, each piece is delicately brushed with soy sauce and a dainty portion of fresh wasabi. Slices of grilled Kobe beef, steamed abalone, silky chawanmushi and fried Scottish lobster, to name a few, weaves its way through the course to provide a delightful contrast and to cut through the richness. Seasonal Japanese fruits capped off the night – a plate in summer featured sweet and juicy Miyazaki mangoes and Crown melons. There are also two things Japan does right: sake and whisky, and Sushi Kanesaka’s rich selection equally lives up to this reputation. Opt for an iced Ocha green tea for a non-alcoholic option. Zahra Surya Darma
Address: Sushi Kanesaka, 45 Park Ln, London W1K 1PN
Website: dorchestercollection.com/45-park-lane/sushi-kanesaka
2. The Aubrey at Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park
London boasts a vibrant culinary scene, and within its myriad of hotel restaurants, The Aubrey at Mandarin Oriental's Hyde Park branch stands out as an opulent gem. With its sophisticated, dimly lit dining room, this establishment creates an ideal ambiance for intimate gatherings and lavish celebrations.
Indulge your taste buds with the exquisite A4 Kagoshima Wag yu Sando as an appetizer, and prepare for an explosion of flavors with mouthwatering options like Alaskan king crab leg or a delectable sashimi platter adorned with scallops, salmon, and eel.
Setting The Aubrey apart from the rest is the addition of a hidden bar concealed within the restaurant's confines. This secret hotspot adds an element of surprise and allure to an already captivating dining experience.
Embark on a culinary journey like no other at The Aubrey, where impeccable service, sumptuous dishes, and an intimate ambiance converge to create an unforgettable dining affair.
If you're hoping to dive into an immersive cocktail adventure, then you've found your destination. With only six seats, this spot offers an unparalleled omakase cocktail experience. The phrase 'omakase' means "in your hands" in English, and this practice is artfully applied to select beverages instead of food. Leading this voyage into intoxicating delights is bar director Pietro Rizzo, who guides patrons through an assortment of Japanese spirits and drinking techniques, providing insights into umeshu, shochu, and sake. The drinks, which are crafted according to your taste, could introduce you to your next best-loved beverage. Complementing each drinking session are meticulously matched bar snacks, enhancing the flavor of each drink. However, don't let the appetizers discourage you from indulging in a delectable dinner afterwards in the main dining area. Your departure will leave you with a sense of stepping out of one of London's ultimate hidden treasures. Sarah James
Location: The Aubrey, 66 Knightsbridge, London SW1X 7LA.
Online access: mandarinoriental.com
3. Sushisamba
Best for: sushi and views
Dish to order: black cod
Sushisamba made a name for itself thanks to its top-tier sushi, elaborate decor and sky high dining experience. There are two outposts in London with menus that combine flavours from Japan, Brazil and Peru: dine 39 floors up in Heron Tower with bird’s-eye views over London – the ultimate celebration and date spot – or in the Covent Garden restaurant for a more relaxed dinner. Sip on crafted cocktails and watch while the chefs cook charcoal anticuchos (Peruvian skewers) on an open fire and handcraft sushi rolls in front of you.
Feasting at Sushisamba allows you to tantalisingly mix and match dishes among you and your party. Standout selections include the decadent wagyu dumplings, the lushly flavoured salmon ceviche and the meltingly tender pork belly skewer adorned with butterscotch miso and complemented by sweet Peruvian corn. Don't miss out on their Samba London sushi roll brimming with fresh and succulent tuna, salmon and hamachi. For those who yearn for singular indulgence, generous plates of T-bone steak and black cod are available. For a lavish meal fitting of a special occasion, treat yourself to the Japanese Kobe and wagyu beef ishiyaki. After all, Sushisamba holds the prestige of being among the scant few eateries worldwide to offer authentic Kobe. Sophie Knight
Location: Sushisamba, located at 10 Broadway Market Mews, London E8 4TS
Visit us at: sushisamba.com
4. Mayha
Blink and you’ll miss the dark, unobtrusive frontage of Mayha, which slyly melts into the gentlemen’s outfitters and antiques shops of its quiet Marylebone streetscape. But inside lurks a two-storey theatrical and experiential omakase. Born in blousy Beirut and new to London this year, this is only the second outpost in the world for Mayha, which was created by Lebanese restaurateurs and suppliers Nothing But Love. Mayha Marylebone is small, performative, celebratory, playful – and perfectly formed. The tasting-menu action happens over a curved counter upstairs, where the walls are black, and overhead is suspended a glittering, Lebanon-made light installation that twinkles across the ceiling like a branch bursting with white blossom in a Japanese spring.
In the vibrant culinary landscape of London, where diverse cuisines collide, Mayha stands out as a unique destination that fuses the flavors of Japan with subtle nods to Lebanon. The talented duo behind this culinary masterpiece, Head Chef Jurek Wasio and his colleague Yuichi Nakaya, create a mesmerizing tasting menu that captivates the taste buds of a small, privileged group of diners who are in for an extraordinary gastronomic experience.
With only 11 exclusive seats at the intimate counter, Mayha ensures that each guest receives undivided attention from the chefs. This allows for a seamless omakase experience, where the chef takes full control of the menu, crafting dishes that are a harmonious reflection of the freshest and most seasonal ingredients available. The meticulously curated selection is thoughtfully paired with an exquisite range of sakes, including sparkling and dessert varieties.
Stepping into Mayha is not only a feast for the palate but also for the eyes. The interiors, created by Beirut’s Mariagroup, showcase a tasteful blend of Japanese aesthetics with subtle Lebanese influences. This artistic fusion is further enhanced by the delicate touch of zaatar dusting the nori on the stone bass, an exquisite example of the innovative and creative culinary techniques employed at Mayha.
For those seeking a truly memorable dining experience, Mayha transcends culinary boundaries, delivering a captivating journey that celebrates the best of Japanese and Lebanese cuisine. Book your seat and prepare to be enchanted by the magic of Mayha.
We start out with their signature black-tofu hummus – framing, with purple basil, a golden pool of olive oil, and scooped up with wafts of sushi-rice wafers – then segue into a memorable presentation of nigiri. Each palm-moulded bed of fragrant rice is draped with a glorious freshness of fish, from stone bass, to sake soy bluefin akami, and langoustine (“I lifted it out of its shell and popped it straight on here,” says Wasio, with a little glint). Downstairs is a newer, tiny, lower-ground-floor Japanese raw bar for six, which leads into a little alfresco courtyard. A concise, five-course raw menu is on offer in the bar, too (and a short a la carte menu). The former is largely raw, with dishes such as scallop crudo paired with a sake-based Martini. Or try their other delicious creations like the Goose Spritz (gooseberries, elderflower and champagne) and watch them being studiously prepared by a pair of meticulous, fresh-faced bartenders rattling their shakers in unison.
Address: Mayha, 43 Chiltern Street, London W1U 6LS
Website: mayhalondon.com
5. Hannah
Best for:the traditional Japanese omakase experience
Dish to order: Fish and chips
It may sound strange to go to a Japanese restaurant and order fish and chips, but therein lies the delicious adventure that is Hannah. While at lunchtime you can order a bento box of greatest hits (sushi, tempura, wagyu), it’s the evening omakase menu that gives chef and owner Daisuke Shimoyama the opportunity to shine.
Omakase translates to ‘I’ll leave it up to you’, and Shimoyama’s fish and chips dish is just one of the ways he dazzles. Swap a view of the staid decor for a seat at the bar to watch him in action – he previously worked at Michelin two-starred Mayfair restaurant UMU and is one of the few chefs trained to prepare the potentially deadly puffer fish. Seafood is a standout, particularly the pillowy pieces of sea bass, plucked straight from the Cornish coast and charcoal- grilled until the skin is crunchy-crisp. Presentation is equally considered, with an assortment of sushi served on a stone surrounded by a sort of mini Zen garden. Then there’s the fish and chips: delicate tempura monkfish that’s crispy on the outside and slightly raw on the inside, wispy purple potato and vinegar crisps and a scattering of smoked caviar, everything balancing on a black tree branch. Take it all in with a glass of sake to match – Shimoyama is also a certified sommelier, and there’s an extensive collection of both sake and wine on offer.
Address: Southbank Riverside, Belvedere Road, London SE1 7PB
Website: hannahrestaurant.london
6. Jin Kichi
Best for:a romantic dinner
Dish to order: Set B grilled skewers
Dark and tiny with tiled floors and tables packed together, this family-run restaurant was once one of Hampstead’s best-kept secrets. Then word got out about their spicy tuna rolls, sticky yakitori and hot sake, and it’s now impossible to get a mid-week table without booking. The long menu caters to both sushi fans and those who prefer treats from the grill: mackerel with salt, teriyaki salmon, and sea bream. However, their speciality lies in the myriad choice of skewers which include everything from duck with spring onion, and quail eggs with yakitori sauce, to chicken gizzard with salt, ox tongue, and sweet lamb shoulder. Delicious.
Address: Jin Kichi, 73 Heath Street, London NW3 6UG
Website: jinkichi.com
7. Tonkotsu
Best for:comforting ramen
Dish to order: Japanese mushroom miso ramen
This is a reliable independent chain with branches in Soho, Haggerston, Notting Hill and Bankside among others, and stumbling into one of its steaming restaurants doesn’t disappoint. Watching the inviting pots of noodles bubbling away as you queue at the original Dean Street outpost will have you salivating. There’s traditional tonkotsu, of course – a rich pork broth enriched with lardo and slices of sweet pork belly – but for something lighter, the umami miso ramen with bobbing shiitake, enoki and shimeji mushrooms is a winner – and a strong veggie alternative. Whatever the order, be sure to use liberal amounts of the homemade Eat the Bits chilli oil.
Address: 63 Dean Street, London W1D 4QG
Other locations: Soho, Haggerston, Notting Hill and Bankside
Website: tonkotsu.co.uk
8. Discover the Delights of Eat Tokyo
Most Suitable for:Affordable yet delightful dining experience
Suggested dish: Character overflows from their Bento box
Signified by the persistent line at the Old Compton Street location, Eat Tokyo is a beloved Japanese canteen known for its budget-friendly but delectable cuisine. Their extensive menu may seem overwhelming at first glance. Still, the skillful chefs promptly prepare the exceptionally-costed sushi at the front counter. The towering bento boxes and tremendous plates of hot-off-the-stove katsu curry will win you over. This place makes the ideal destination for a midday meal (provided it's not too crowded) or a pre-paycheck feast.
Location: 16 Old Compton Street, London W1D 4TL
Branches: Reach them at Covent Garden, Notting Hill, Holborn, and Hammersmith
Online:Visit their website here
9. Experiencing the tastes of Japan at Issho-Ni
Renowned for: contemporary interpretations of classic dishes
Must-try dish: seared butterfish sashimi
This laid-back locale, nestled in the heart of Bethnal Green, plays the dual roles of a restaurant and a cocktail bar remarkably well. It's known for its reimaginations of classic Japanese favourites, presenting them alongside a stellar selection of robust sake cocktails. The cuisine at Issho-Ni is indulgent and inventive, featuring a strong showing of extravagant truffle-infused dishes. Among its diverse offerings, the menu features sea-bass sashimi married with jalapeño, coriander and a unique truffle-yuzu dressing, beautifully seared butterfish accentuated with minced truffle and chive oil, and moreish grilled lobster generously bathed in truffle butter. It even serves a dish featuring squid-ink noodles intertwined with seafood, shiso and garlic chips – a thrilling sensory experience, though not recommended for romantic dates!
Moreover, Issho-Ni goes the extra mile with its Sunday brunch specials. The 'bottomless' brunch features endless helpings of sushi and sashimi served with Bloody Geishas, an intriguing twist on the traditional Bloody Mary, infused with Japanese spices. Brunching here becomes an event, turning a casual Sunday into a culinary celebration.
Where to find them: 185 Bethnal Green Road, London E2 6AB
Online: issho-ni.com
10. Uchi
Ideal for: those in search of a secret culinary paradise
Must-try dish: Sushi rolls prepared with brown rice
The gastronomic landscape of Clapton is rapidly evolving, and amidst it nests Uchi - a hidden jewel of Japanese cuisine, strategically concealed at a residential street corner. The name 'Uchi', translates to 'inside' in Japanese, a fitting title once you experience the calm and cosy atmosphere within its quarters. Step past the noren curtain to find a serene setting furnished with rustic wooden seating, tables with a brushed-gold finish, tasteful vases and elegantly outfitted A-class crew in denim aprons. Scan their specials board—a wall grid, hosting an ensemble of bulldog-clip bound cards—and indulge in a selection from each division of their concise yet impressive menu. Savor the distinct flavors of miso-infused aubergine, traditionally cooked robata grill mackerel, crispy karaage chicken, a delicate seaweed salad or a refreshing roll of crunchy tuna.
Location: 144 Clarence Road, Lower Clapton, London E5 8EA
Website: uchihackney.com
11. Zuma
Best for:stylish food for stylish people
Dish to order: Black cod wrapped with hoba leaf
Ferraris growl by the doors on a Monday night, the smell of Clive Christian drifts by the bar, and women with shiny nails have chairs for their handbags. Founded by chef Rainer Becker almost 17 years ago, it’s a testament to the fabulous food and cocktails that have kept Zuma at the top of its game. In traditional izakaya style, dishes are brought in succession throughout the meal, ranging from crisp squid spritzed with chilli and lime (pictured above) to grilled lamb chops dipped in hatcho miso sauce. Even the simplest vegetable maki looks so beautiful it ought to be framed on a wall. This is Knightsbridge after all, so everything is done to excess. A number of London's best restaurants serve the infamous black cod and miso, but Zuma’s is second to none with the sweet white flesh slipping apart in perfect chunks to dip in pale miso puree.
Address: Zuma, 5 Raphael Street, London SW7 1DL
Website: zumarestaurant.com
12. Abeno
Recommended for: Times when you need something hearty and soothing
Must-try dish: Tokyo mix okonomi-yaki
Nestled amongst a line of Southeast Asian eateries located across from the British Museum, you will find Abeno, a quiet retreat serving Kansai-style okonomi-yaki; a delectable Japanese savoury pancake. Whipped up with cabbage, spring onions, dough, raw eggs, and a medley of pork, squid, shrimp and chicken, this delightful dish is freshly prepared right before your eyes. As it cooks on a hot plate tucked under a lid while releasing an irresistible aroma, you can enjoy the silky goodness of agedashi tofu. As the much-awaited pancake is served, it is graced by a garnish of bonito flakes that gently dance in the warmth, complemented by a tangy rice vinegar mayo and a sweet barbecue sauce.
Abeno is a hidden gem in the city, located at 47 Museum Street, London WC1A 1LY, offering a tantalizing taste of authentic Japanese cuisine away from the bustle of city life.
Find them at: 47 Museum Street, London WC1A 1LY
Online at: abeno.co.uk
13. Shoryu
A Prime Choice For: Authentic Hakata-originated bone broth ramen
Suggested Dish: Shoryu Ganso Tonkotsu
Across London, it's hard not to stumble upon a Japanese restaurant offering ramen, with numerous establishments including Tonkotsu, Bone Daddies, Ippudo and Kanada-Ya. Yet, the crown goes to Shoryu. The Executive Chef of Shoryu, Kanji Furukawa, embarked on a mission to bring the distinctive pork bone broth from his hometown Hakata to London. The stock is prepared meticulously for over 12 hours, utilizing bones, marrow, and meat to create an enriched, creamy infusion that leaves an alluring trace on your lips. In addition to offering all types of noodle texture, the bowl is garnished with nori and layered with delicate slices of pork belly cozied around a soft Burford egg. Behold the beauty of this dish, made even better when accompanied by a char siu hirata bun and a bottle of Asahi. Despite the high quality, your bill won't exceed £20.
The fascinating fact is that the Shoryu Ganso Tonkotsu is known for its full-bodied flavor without any unpleasant aftertastes, thanks to the careful efforts of the chefs in crafting the perfect balance of ingredients. Plus, studies suggest that bone broth can be beneficial to your health, promoting a healthier gut, healthier skin, and reducing joint pain.
Location: 9 Regent Street, London SW1Y 4LR
Addition Locations: Shoreditch, Carnaby, Liverpool St, Soho, Covent Garden, Kensington, Sheperd's Bush
Website: shoryuramen.com
14. Dinings SW3
Best for:flamboyant Japanese tapas
Dish to order: Wagyu steak with chimichurri wafu
The latest venture in SW3 has taken key dishes and spun them on their head – to great success. Housed down a cobbled Knightsbridge mews, the restaurant has a nicely noisy din over which you can still hear yourself speak. Sit at the bar sipping spicy salmon and coriander miso soup and watch head sushi chef Masaki painting soy, dotting wasabi, and fanning out fatty tuna. Given the restaurant’s playful ethos, expect shrimp tempura sliders with chilli mayo, Ibérico lamb chops, and the highlight of the menu: slices of wagyu beef cooked on a Josper grill – the marbled fat crisp and salty, the pink interior still soft as satin. You’ll spend a week’s salary in here, but sometimes it’s worth it for the lingering taste of dark chocolate fondant and truffle ice cream.
Address: Walton House, Lennox Gardens Mews, Walton Street, London SW3 2JH
Website: dinings.co.uk
15. Roka
Highly recommended for: Their expertise in Robata-style grilled seafood and meats.
Suggested culinary delight: The spectacularly scrumptious Rock shrimp tempura
Inspired by the triumph of Zuma, Rainer Becker established Roka as a relaxed counterpart. The foundation of this culinary haven lies in an exposed grill, buzzing with chefs deftly sizzling and slitting chunks of tuna, slender pieces of sea bass, and scallop delights. This sought-after dining destination lures celebrities and die-hard sushi enthusiasts alike. Amidst the soft glow of focused lighting and an ambient beat, expect to discover translucent slices of yellowtail sashimi adorned with a zesty yuzu-truffle sauce, diced wagyu teamed with Oscietra caviar, and sumptuous Korean lamb cutlets. Don't forget to try the sublime Rock shrimp tempura that's cloaked in an ethereal batter, and lip-smacking, melt-in-your-mouth black sugar doughnuts.
Two unique delights to look forward to at Roka are the tender sea bass and the rich-tasting wagyu beef. Both these offerings are grilled to perfection and add to the unforgettable flavors that Roka presents to its diners.
Your palate will thank you for embarking on this remarkable gastronomic journey.
Location: 37 Charlotte Street, London W1T 1RR
Find us at other venues: Mayfair, Canary Wharf, Aldwych
Website: rokarestaurant.com
16. Taro
Best for:simple sushi and set lunches
Dish to order: Nasu Dengaku
Not to be confused with the Taro franchise which has three restaurants in Soho, Balham and Cannon Street, this solo restaurant on Finchley Road is split between two brightly-lit rooms with wooden interiors, lovely staff, and a loyal local fanbase of more than 20 years. Flicking through the laminated menu with its frayed edges, you’re spoilt for page after page of simple nigiri – all locally sourced – crisp chicken gyoza, seaweed salads, mixed tempura, and grilled teriyaki fish and meat. For an unexpected treat, order the nasu dengaku – half a fried aubergine slashed with latticework and topped with sweet miso.
Address: 293 Finchley Road, London NW3 6DT
Website: tarosushi.co.uk
17. Experience the Magic of “Mu”
Indulge in a Late-Night Feast with Live Music
Must-Try Dish: Oyster Mushrooms with Garlic and Soy
Discover the newest addition to London's vibrant dining scene - "Mu" - brought to you by the talented team behind the popular Kingsland Road hotspot, Brilliant Corners. Located just a few doors down, "Mu" offers a captivating ambiance with its dimly lit setting, live music every night, and a modern dining space. Whether you're enjoying a mid-week solo piano performance, vibey weekend DJs, or soothing Sunday jazz, "Mu" creates the perfect backdrop for a memorable evening.
Pamper your taste buds with a delightful fusion of East-meets-West cuisine, prepared using the traditional Japanese charcoal robata grill technique. The menu features the finest British ingredients, ensuring a harmonious blend of flavors. Don't miss the oyster mushrooms with garlic and soy, a dish that encapsulates the essence of "Mu's" culinary prowess.
Meat and fish dishes are full of flavour and accompanied by intricate servings of pickles, caviar and other Japanese condiments. To start we recommend the fried aubergine coated in white miso glaze and the scallop skewers with yuzu koscho. For mains, we loved the crisp coated pork tonkatsu, served with a side of white cabbage, pickles and brown dipping sauce, and the soft dry aged Dexter beef rump topped with dollops of caviar which pairs perfectly with a side of salty nori fries. However, the oyster mushroom side dish stole the show, brilliantly meaty with strong bold flavours of garlic and soy – a must-order. Finish dinner with the sweet but savoury matcha crème brûlée.
As for drinks, there are classic cocktails and a few in-house creations. We loved the classic twist on the old-fashioned – a blend of Suntory Toki whisky infused with jasmine tea. There’s an extensive wine list – luckily, the sommelier was only too happy to recommend a tasty natural option. Sophie Knight
Address: 432-434 Kingsland Road, London E8 4AA
Website: mu-ldn.com
18. Discover the Delights of Omakase at Sushi Kamon
Perfect for: Those new to the Omakase experience
A must-try dish: Surrender to the Chefs' Expertise
When faced with an overwhelming menu that leaves you torn between delicious options, the authentic Japanese dining style called Omakase is the answer. Derived from the phrase 'chef's choice', Omakase at Sushi Kamon in the Arcade Food Hall presents a unique opportunity to indulge in a 45-minute culinary journey comprising of nine delectable courses crafted from a regularly changing selection of seasonal delights.
Immerse yourself in the intimate setting of only ten seats, allowing you to forge a personal connection with the talented chefs who artfully prepare each dish. By entrusting the experts, your taste buds will be treated to a symphony of flavors, textures, and presentations, guaranteeing an unforgettable dining affair. Book your Omakase experience at Sushi Kamon today and let the masterful creations transport you to the heart of Japanese culinary excellence.
The team at this standout Japanese restaurant skillfully blends time-honored sushi preparation techniques with a dash of inventive flair. The budget-friendly omakase menu (prices start at £45), makes it an ideal starting point for newbies, while providing regulars with a touch of novelty. A medley of salmon, squid, and hamachi nigiri are carefully sculpted in your presence and typically presented in a duo of styles: the initial serve features a dusting of wasabi and a light coat of Nikiri soy, followed by a signature twist masterminded by culinary maestro Michael Carcer. Possibilities include unexpected accompaniments such as sun-dried tomatoes crowned with flame-seared parmesan or a zingy tosazu jelly garnished with grated dark chocolate, designed to enrich the sushi experience. These delicacies can be savored alongside a sake selection that has been expertly curated to enhance each dish.
By Zahra Surya Darma
Location: 103-105 New Oxford Street, London WC1A 1DB
Website: arcadefoodhall.com
19. Sushi Tetsu
Best for:sushi and sashimi only
Dish to order: don’t bother, let Tetsu guide your meal
Seven seats – that’s the capacity in this Clerkenwell restaurant, with a ban on children under 12. We wish you the very best of luck in trying to dine at this hugely in-demand sushi bar – but we couldn't miss a restaurant from our list on the grounds that it is “too good” or “too popular”. Run by a husband-and-wife team named Toru and Harumi Takahashi, Sushi Tetsu is essentially a private dinner party with Chef ‘Tetsu’ Toru, who runs an omakase-style service – choosing what he wants to serve. Laying out a waxed banana leaf, Tetsu will place shiny, single pieces of black bream, horse mackerel, jumbo fresh shrimp and sweet omelette under your nose, bringing out a blowtorch for the squid. Sourced from Billingsgate, the fish is buttery, melting and magical with no need for added flavour or garnish. The booking line is open for three hours a day and tables are usually gone by 2pm, so consider yourself blessed if you bag a seat.
Address: Sushi Tetsu, 12 Jerusalem Passage, London EC1V 4JP
Website: sushitetsu.co.uk
20. Angelina
Noteworthy for: Its innovational approach to Japanese cuisine
Must-try dish: Kaiseki tasting menu
Situated in the heart of Dalston, Angelina is no ordinary Japanese nor Italian eatery. It's an intriguing fusion of both worlds, maintaining a deep reverence for these globally-renowned cuisines. Angelina's distinctive blend of Japanese and Italian culinary traditions provides a delicious and affordable dining experience that's sure to defy your assumptions. The Kaiseki tasting menu is definitely worth your investment. It presents a rich, captivating spread of 10 dishes priced at £64. These offerings brilliantly capture the unique essence of Japanese gastronomy in delightful plates of freshness.
Location: Angelina, 56 Dalston Lane, London E8 3AH
Online Presence: angelina.london
