10 Best Japanese Restaurants In London
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That means sushi aficionados and ramen enthusiasts alike can be whisked away to the bustling streets of Tokyo with their excellent food and immersive ambience.
Here are 10 of the best in London.
Best Japanese Restaurants At A Glance
4. Dinings SW3 - Walton House, Lennox Gardens Mews, Walton St, London, SW3 2JH
5. Nobu - Multiple locations in London, see all here
6. Roka - Multiple locations, see all here
7. SushiSamba - Multiple locations, see all here.
1. Yashin Sushi
A visit to Yashin Sushi restaurant is a must for the freshest and finest sushi made with high-quality ingredients.
Located in the affluent and prestigious Kensington and Chelsea, Yashin Sushi is a renowned dining establishment gaining a reputation for its authentic and exceptional sushi and sashimi dishes.
From melt-in-your-mouth Otoro (fatty tuna) to delicate and flavourful crispy fried shrimp with yuzu kosho mayo, yashin sushi offers a diverse range of options that will satisfy even the most discerning sushi connoisseurs.
The restaurant prides itself on its “no soy sauce, no wasabi” policy, which encourages diners to appreciate the natural flavours of the fish without overpowering them with additional condiments.
Address: 1A Argyll Rd, London W8 7DB
2. Shoryu Ramen
Founded by Tak Tokumine in 2012, Shoryu Ramen is a popular Japanese restaurant chain that specialises in serving authentic and delicious ramen dishes.
At Shoryu Ramen, the star of the show is undoubtedly their ramen bowls and their commitment to using traditional techniques and authentic ingredients is apparent in every dish.
Their Tonkotsu ramen, for example, is made with a meticulously prepared pork bone broth that is slow-cooked for over 12 hours to achieve a rich and creamy consistency. This attention to detail ensures that each bowl of ramen is bursting with flavour.
Apart from their delectable ramen, their menu features a variety of other Japanese delights on the menu, including gyoza, bao buns, and chicken katsu curry.
Then you can wash down these delicious meals with an array of Japanese beverages like sake, Japanese whiskey, traditional teas and Japanese-inspired cocktails.
Address: Multiple locations in London, see all here.
3. Umu
UMU is a Michelin-starred Japanese restaurant that celebrates the artistry of Japanese culinary traditions, highlighting the natural flavours of all ingredients used.
UMU is particularly known for its kaiseki cuisine, a traditional Japanese multi-course dining experience that emphasises harmony, balance, and seasonality.
Each kaiseki meal at UMU is carefully curated by skilled chefs, featuring a succession of beautifully presented dishes that reflect the changing seasons and highlight the best of Japanese ingredients.
In addition to kaiseki, UMU also offers à la carte options, including sushi, sashimi, and other Japanese specialties.
The restaurant prides itself on providing an elegant, intimate and immersive dining experience for guests.
Address: 14-16 Bruton Pl, London W1J 6LX
4. Dinings SW3
Dinings SW3 is a contemporary restaurant located in the heart of Chelsea, London.
They have a knack for blending traditional Japanese techniques with European culinary twists.
Their menu boasts your favourite sushi and sashimi, to à la carte offerings like blue lobster and sweetcorn croquette in a miso bisque sauce made with the freshest, local and seasonal ingredients the chefs could lay their hands on.
The vibe of the restaurant is elegance with a modern makeover. The staff have a charming way about them; they’re attentive and make you feel right at home, minus any stuffiness you might expect from a high-end spot.
Address: Walton House, Lennox Gardens Mews, Walton St, London, SW3 2JH
5. Nobu London
Nobu London, part of the globally renowned Nobu Hospitality group co-founded by Nobu Matsuhisa, Robert De Niro (yep, you read that right!) and Meir Teper, offers a premium dining experience known for its innovative and modern take on Japanese cuisine.
The restaurant features signature dishes such as Black Cod with Miso and Yellowtail Jalapeño, alongside unique creations inspired by its location.
There are three Nobu locations in London:
Nobu London Old Park Lane - Situated in the prestigious area of Mayfair, on Park Lane, it not only offers exceptional food but also views over Hyde Park. It’s a hotspot for celebrities and food enthusiasts alike, blending exquisite dining with an atmosphere of exclusivity.
Nobu Portman Square - This restaurant is a cornerstone of the hotel, continuing the tradition of pioneering culinary excellence that Nobu is famous for. It’s a sought-after destination for locals and travellers alike, who are looking for an upscale dining experience coupled with the comfort and elegance of Nobu’s hospitality.
Nobu Shoreditch - Located in the trendy area of Shoreditch, this branch brings Nobu’s famed culinary delights to East London. The restaurant is part of the Nobu Hotel Shoreditch, providing a dynamic and immersive experience that extends beyond the dining table to include a stylish stay.
Address: Multiple locations in London, see all here.
6. Roka
Roka is an award-winning Japanese robatayaki restaurant franchise known for its contemporary approach to traditional Japanese cuisine, with a particular emphasis on the robata grill, which is an integral part of Japanese cooking, traditionally used by fishermen to cook their catch over charcoal at the water’s edge.
Roka brings this experience to the heart of London, capturing the warmth and communal spirit of this tradition.
The menu at Roka features a variety of dishes that highlight the robata grill’s versatility, including seafood, poultry, meat, and vegetables, all infused with the distinct smoky flavours that only charcoal grilling can provide.
Roka has several locations across London, each with its unique character, yet all share the signature style, warmth, and hospitality that Roka is known for. These include:
Roka Charlotte Street: The flagship restaurant, located in Fitzrovia, is vibrant and cosy, with the robata grill taking centre stage. It’s a favourite for both business lunches and casual dining.
Roka Canary Wharf: Situated in the bustling business district, this location offers panoramic views of the Thames and a spacious, airy setting perfect for corporate events and intimate dinners.
Roka Mayfair: A more upscale iteration, blending Roka’s rustic, warm aesthetics with Mayfair’s sophistication. It’s particularly popular for its refined vibe and exclusive clientele.
Roka Aldwych: Located near the heart of London’s Theatreland, it caters to a diverse crowd, from theatre-goers to tourists and locals.
Address: Multiple locations, see all here.
7. SushiSamba
SushiSamba in London is renowned for its vibrant blend of Japanese, Brazilian, and Peruvian cultures, offering a distinctive culinary experience that stands out in London’s diverse dining scene.
The restaurant has two notable locations in London, each with its distinct charm and offerings:
SushiSamba Heron Tower: Perched on the 38th and 39th floors of the Heron Tower, this restaurant offers breathtaking 360-degree views of the city—a magnet for food enthusiasts and those seeking a dining experience with a view. The outdoor dining terraces are among the highest in Europe, adding an unparalleled sense of exclusivity and spectacle to the dining experience.
SushiSamba Covent Garden: Situated in the heart of Covent Garden, this location brings the dynamic energy and innovative cuisine of SushiSamba to one of London’s most iconic areas. While it may lack the lofty perch of its Heron Tower counterpart, SushiSamba Covent Garden compensates with its lively energy and proximity to the cultural and social buzz of the West End.
Address: Multiple locations, see all here.
8. Zuma
Zuma London, situated in the heart of Knightsbridge, epitomises the fusion of traditional Japanese izakaya-style dining with a sophisticated twist, making it a beacon of modern Japanese cuisine in London.
Since its inception in 2002, Zuma has maintained its status as a premier dining destination, drawing both celebrities and culinary aficionados with its vibrant and glamorous atmosphere, coupled with an innovative menu that skillfully blends Japanese culinary traditions with contemporary flavours.
Under the guidance of co-founders Chef Rainer Becker and restaurant creator Arjun Waney, Zuma delivers an exceptional dining experience that transcends the ordinary.
The restaurant is celebrated for its array of luxurious Japanese-fusion dishes, such as the outstanding Wagyu tartare, crispy langoustines, and seared tuna salads, not to mention the melt-in-the-mouth otoro sushi.
The cuisine here is described as “just heaven” and is praised for maintaining high standards over the years, making it one of London’s top dining experiences.
Address: 5 Raphael St, London, SW7 1DL
9. Engawa
Tucked away in Soho’s bustling centre, Engawa emerges as a prestigious Japanese eatery, celebrated for its genuine culinary adventures highlighted by the exquisite Wagyu beef, and complemented by an enticing assortment of sushi and sashimi.
Engawa opened its doors in February 2015, brought to life by The Salt Group, which operates several establishments in Tokyo and Osaka.
With a design by Satomi Hatanaka, their London restaurant delivers an intimate setting that welcomes 29 guests for both lunch and dinner, creating a warm and sophisticated atmosphere.
Engawa’s signature offering, the meticulously prepared Wagyu beef, promises an unparalleled melt-in-the-mouth sensation, thanks to the expert hands that craft each dish.
Their dedication to standout culinary experiences really shines through with their Bento Box, offering diners a taste of authentic Japanese flavours but with a fun, modern twist
Address: 2 Ham Yard, London, W1D 7DT
10. Kiku
Kiku, established in 1978 and located in the heart of Mayfair, London, stands as the city’s oldest family-run Japanese restaurant.
With a rich history that begins with its founding in Shepherd’s Market before moving to its current location on Half Moon Street in 1999, Kiku has been a staple in London’s Japanese dining scene for over four decades.
The restaurant is celebrated for serving authentic Japanese cuisine, drawing in both locals and visitors with its traditional dishes, hand-picked quality ingredients, and chefs traditionally trained in Japan.
The interior at Kiku reflects a minimalist blend of Japanese aesthetics, featuring blond wood and lattice screens that create a serene dining environment.
By day, Kiku caters to business lunchers with well-regarded set deals that offer a quick yet satisfying meal. The Kiku ‘special’ is particularly popular, providing a combination of mixed tempura, miso soup, sushi, and teriyaki-braised chicken.
By night, the restaurant welcomes a more leisurely crowd looking to indulge in an array of Japanese delicacies, including sashimi platters, sunomono salads, tempura, and shabu-shabu hotpots.
Address: 17 Half Moon St, London, W1J 7BE
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Tips For Visiting Japanese Restaurants In London
Visiting Japanese restaurants in London offers a fantastic opportunity to explore the rich and diverse culinary tradition of Japan.
Whether you’re a seasoned sushi enthusiast or new to Japanese cuisine, here are some tips to enhance your dining experience:
Reservations Are Key: Japanese restaurants, especially popular ones like Nobu and Kiku, can get quite busy. It’s always a good idea to make a reservation to ensure you get a table.
Explore Beyond Sushi: Japanese cuisine is much more than sushi. Try different dishes such as ramen, tempura, kaiseki (a traditional multi-course meal), yakitori (grilled chicken skewers), and donburi (rice bowl dish with various toppings).
Be Mindful of Your Etiquette: Japanese culture places a high value on manners. Remember to say “itadakimasu” before eating (a way to express gratitude for the meal) and “gochisosama deshita” after finishing your meal to thank you for the food. Also, avoid sticking your chopsticks vertically into a bowl of rice as it resembles a funeral ritual in Japan!
Enjoy the Sake: Many Japanese restaurants in London offer an extensive selection of sake. If you’re not sure which one to choose, ask for a recommendation based on your taste preferences and what you’re ordering.
Be Adventurous with Seasonal Specialties: Japanese cuisine is seasonal, so look out for special dishes that feature the freshest ingredients of the moment. This could be a great way to experience something new and exceptional.
Understand the Etiquette: If you’re having sushi, remember that it’s perfectly acceptable to eat it with your hands. Also, when using soy sauce, try not to drench your sushi in it; a little goes a long way.
