Best Japanese Restaurants in London

The Rise of Japanese Cuisine in London

In recent times, Japanese food in London has seen a steep rise in popularity, from being a niche offering to becoming a mainstream dining experience for people living there. The reasons for the same can be described as appealing presentation, availability of fresh ingredients, and the growing health-conscious trend. Moreover, some other factors of popularity are:

1. The rise of social media, with its emphasis on visually appealing food, has also played a role in promoting Japanese cuisine.
2. Several popular chain restaurants have introduced Japanese food to a wider audience, making it more accessible and familiar across the world.
3. The growing interest in healthy eating has also led to the popularity of Japanese food as it offers fresh elements in famous dishes.
4. Mouth publicity is again one of the most important factors that has given popularity to London Japanese restaurants also all over the world.

Recently, multiple cafes in London have also started serving Japanese food, making London City one of the major destinations to taste this cuisine.

Top Japanese Restaurants in London

For those people who are looking for a famous Japanese restaurant in London, the list below will act as the perfect guide. So, some of the top restaurants there involve:

1. Sushisamba

Address: Sushisamba, 10 Broadway Market Mews, London E8 4TS

If you are a sushi lover and are looking for a place that is famous specifically for this, Sushisamba should be your top choice. There are two outposts in London with menus that combine flavors 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. Sushisamba is one of the few restaurants in the world to serve Kobe.

2. Zuma

Address: Zuma, 5 Raphael Street, London SW7 1DL

The fabulous food and cocktail options from across the globe have kept Zuma at the top of its game since its opening 20 years ago. So, if you are looking for an affordable Japanese restaurant London, this could be your top choice and the quality of food here is better than some of the very high-end restaurants in London. Moreover, talking about the presentation, even the simplest vegetable maki is worth framing, with high-end dishes looking like a gem on the planet Earth.

3. The Aubrey at Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park

Address: The Aubrey, 66 Knightsbridge, London SW1X 7LA

For those looking for a Japanese restaurant in central London, the Aubrey is the perfect choice with easy reachability and a tasty menu. What pushes this spot ahead of the crowd, though, is the secret bar set within the restaurant. Seating just six, this is the place for a one-of-a-kind omakase cocktail experience. Moreover, if you are aware of the concept of ‘Omakase’, this place is flipped with this concept, covering both food and drinks. Eating there feels like exploring the secret place of London.

4. Humble Chicken

Address: 54 Frith St, London W1D 4SJ

Want to enhance your dining experience with the open kitchen, then this authentic Japanese restaurant London is the perfect spot for you. Admire head chef Sato, who is half-German, half-Japanese, and his team grate wasabi, sear beef, slice bright pink fresh tuna, and place delicate garnishes with tweezers on beautifully crafted Japanese small plates with a slight European twist. Apart from that, for desert lovers, it is recommended to order the deconstructed cheesecake covered in frozen grated strawberries and a little pot of savory flavored mouse.

5. Sushi Kanesaka at 45 Park Lane

Address: Sushi Kanesaka, 45 Park Ln, London W1K 1PN

London City is experiencing the rise of Japanese omakese culture, where Sushi Kanesaka is a valuable edition. Apart from that, this can be considered as one of the best Japanese fusion restaurant London with some of the most unique dining options. The aura of this restaurant makes it a better place with floor-to-ceiling wooden design and beautiful lights. A plus point here is that the chefs at this restaurant are from different parts of Japan, making it a wonderful experience for the people to get an authentic taste.

6. Taku

Address: Ground Floor, 36 Albemarle St, London W1S 4JE

Being one of the best and the affordable Japanese restaurant in London City, the vibe here is simple yet elegant, providing a peaceful dining experience to the visitors. The rice and the fish temperature is carefully monitored and hand-rolled so you can eat immediately to ensure the optimum flavor. What makes it more fun to eat here is the unique style of eating sushi from your hands, taught by the staff, which helps you get the perfect taste in portions.

7. JUNO Omakase

Address: 2-4 Farmer St, London W8 7SN

One of the most interesting facts about this place is that the surprises keep coming during this 15-course Omakase menu, where even the chefs don't know what they'll be serving until their produce is delivered that day. This is one of the best hidden Japanese restaurants in London, making it a peaceful yet fun place to eat. All dishes are gluten and nut-free, making this a beneficial and considerable option for many diners.

8. Mayha

Address: Mayha, 43 Chiltern Street, London W1U 6LS

The daily menu here unfolds over about an hour and a half and is rooted in what’s most fresh and available. On the lower floor, there is a small Japanese bar with a seating of six, making it perfect for a group to enjoy. The spirit of the omakase is respected at Mayha which means everything is in the hands of the chef. Thus, prepare yourself for surprises at this authentic Japanese restaurant London. They start with their signature black-tofu hummus, framed with purple basil, a golden pool of olive oil, and scooped up with wafts of sushi-rice wafers.

9. Hannah

Address: South Bank Riverside, Belvedere Road, London SE1 7PB

Hannah can be considered as one of the most innovative and exciting Japanese restaurants in London. Here, you will be surprised to get the fish and chips, but therein lies the delicious adventure that is Hannah. During lunchtime, you can order sushi, tempura, and wagyu, with omakase coming into action in the evening time. Presentation is equally considered, with an assortment of sushi served on a stone surrounded by a sort of mini Zen garden, giving the high-end feeling to the people at an affordable price.

10. Shoryu

Address: 9 Regent Street, London SW1Y 4LR

Other locations: Shoreditch, Carnaby, Liverpool St, Soho, Covent Garden, Kensington, Sheperd's Bush

If you are in search of the best Japanese restaurants in London that serve the best ramen, then this place feels like heaven to your taste buds. This place is one of the most affordable ones to eat with char siu hirata bun and a bottle of Asahi on the side, you can still get away with a £20 bill. Moreover, if you reach there, then trying pork bone broth is a sort of ritual, where the chef makes it unique with the essence of their hometown.

These are the top 10 famous Japanese restaurant in London that will give you an experience similar to eating in Japan. So, plan a perfect day and visit these restaurants with your friends for a nice experience. You can also find these restaurants near student accommodation in London, by which you can save on your transportation expenses and spend them at some high-end restaurants and cafes.

Must-Try Dishes in Japanese Restaurants

Now as you are aware of the several London Japanese restaurants, it is also important that you eat some of the recommended dishes that will bless your taste buds.

1. Classics:

• Sushi: Vinegared rice with various ingredients.
• Ramen: Noodle soup with broth and toppings.
• Tempura: Deep-fried seafood and vegetables.
• Yakitori: Skewered and grilled chicken.
• Udon: Thick wheat noodles in broth.
• Soba: Thin buckwheat noodles.
• Miso Soup: Traditional soup with fermented soybean paste.

2. Beyond the Basics:

• Sashimi: Thinly sliced raw fish.
• Donburi: Rice bowl with various toppings.
• Okonomiyaki: Savory pancake.
• Tonkatsu: Breaded and deep-fried pork cutlet.
• Gyoza: Pan-fried dumplings.

3. Unique Experiences:

• Kaiseki: Traditional multi-course haute cuisine.
• Fugu: Pufferfish delicacy.
• Natto: Fermented soybeans.
• Wagyu Beef: Japanese beef is known for its quality.

These are some of the most popular Japanese food in London, making your dine-out experience full of tasty food. You can also find the best restaurants near your student accommodation in UK by searching them online.

How to Enhance Your Experience at Japanese Restaurants?

Enhancing your experience at Japanese restaurants in London or any other part of the world by learning the proper etiquette, expressing gratitude, and engaging with the staff and chef. Other pointers include:

1. Learn some basic Japanese expressions such as "Itadakimasu" (enjoying the meal) and "Gochisosama deshita" (thank you for the delicious meal).
2. Learn to use chopsticks as it is one of the main elements of Japanese food. You must know that there are several cutlery rules and etiquette that you must follow.
3. Gratitude is important as it makes the chef and other staff feel worth serving you and motivates them to continue this service.
4. Consider ordering a set menu (omakase) to experience a variety of dishes.
5. You can also choose a vegan Japanese restaurant Londonto eat good and healthy. It will taste good while continuing your diet.

Conclusion

This was all about the best Japanese restaurants in London city. Thus, because you know the top restaurants there, it won’t be difficult for you to explore different dishes and categories of tasty Japanese food. Because it is made clear in the blog that Japanese cuisine has seen a rise in London, thus there are some of the very high-end as well as affordable restaurants that you can enjoy. So, enhance your experience, try some of the recommended dishes, and bless your taste buds. Moreover, you can also try eating at Indian restaurants in London to add variety to your dining experiences.

FAQs

1. What Are the Best Japanese Restaurants in London?

Shushisamba, Zuma, Hot Stone, Uzumaki, and Umu are the best Japanese restaurants in London. You will get good variety also, making your experience more diverse.

2. Do I Need to Make a Reservation at Japanese Restaurants in London?

In general, reservations are recommended, especially for popular Japanese restaurants in London, especially during peak hours or for larger groups. However, it's possible to find tables without reservations at some less crowded establishments or during off-peak times.

3. What Is Omakase?

Omakase, which translates to "I'll leave it up to you" or "chef's choice," is a dining experience where you entrust the chef to create a personalized meal for you.

4. Are There Vegetarian or Vegan Options at Japanese Restaurants?

Yes, many Japanese restaurants offer vegetarian and even vegan options. Japanese cuisine naturally lends itself to plant-based dishes, and there's a growing trend of restaurants specializing in these options.

5. Are There Japanese Dessert Options in London?

Yes, London offers a variety of Japanese dessert options. You can find them at bakeries, izakaya-style restaurants, and other spots.