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Top 8
Japanese Restaurant
You Shouldn't Miss
in London
Japanese cuisine is a perfect combination of natural ingredients, vibrant colours, and a variety of tableware. More than just a sense of visual sophistication, they are one of the most palatable and playful cuisines on the planet.
If you're tired of heavy foods and can't come up with any new dishes at home, why not go for a Japanese cuisine hunt in the streets and alleys of London? It might just freshen up your taste and add a spark to your life. So, without further ado, let's explore our top 8 Japanese restaurants hidden in the streets of London. As usual, no specific ranking!
Right before you move on to our most loved top 8 Japanese restaurants in London, I would like to tell you we've covered an ARTICLE that teaches you everything you need to know when ordering Japanese food, from asking for a menu all the way to paying the bill. Good luck and enjoy your meal:)
8. Abeno
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Abeno is a well-known Japanese restaurant that stands out from others, particularly famous for its Okonomiyaki, a traditional Japanese savoury pancake. At Abeno, you can customize your Okonomiyaki with various ingredients. The perfect fusion of assorted vegetables, pancake batter, seafood, and meats, all expertly cooked on a griddle and topped with soy sauce, seaweed, and dried fish flakes. Imagine how incredibly delightful it is!
The restaurant offers a unique dining experience where diners can watch the skilled chefs prepare their Okonomiyaki on a teppan (iron griddle). The restaurant's dedication to authentic Japanese cuisine and the interactive dining experience make it a must-visit spot in London.
7. SHORYU
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Food
Atmosphere
Ramen is almost equal to Japanese food.
Shoryu Ramen is one of the most popular ramen chains with multiple locations across Covent Garden and Soho.
Their signature dish "Hakata Tonkotsu Ramen" is something you shouldn't miss. The soul of it lies in the broth crafted by simmering pork, pork bones, dried fish, and shrimp, which is an extremely creamy, milky-white soup base with a rich flavour. Besides, the ramen features an incredibly tender and fatty pork belly that literally melts in your mouth. What can complain about? They've gathered all the crucial elements of a successful bowl of ramen and it's time to satisfy your ramen cravings in London!!!
6. Koya City
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Atmosphere
Koya's storefront features two massive French windows and a pair of benches, creating a simple and low-profile appearance in the lively East London neighbourhood.
Koya specializes in udon noodles, not those ordinary ones but the "traditional and original" udon noodles. Their menu is divided into three categories: Hot Udon with Hot Broth, Cold Udon with Hot Broth, and Cold Udon with Dipping Sauce. Every combination has its own uniqueness, which is absolutely playful!
Another distinctive feature is its commitment to using locally sourced ingredients to create authentic Japanese dishes. This means seaweed comes from the Welsh coast, seafood from London's fish markets, and mushrooms cultivated by local farmers. Let's call it a perfect fusion!
4. Tanakatsu
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Tanakatsu is a sleek Japanese restaurant with concrete walls and lots of dark wood. Just like their slogan: Simplicity, Honesty, Quality. Tanakatsu is your go-to spot for exceptional katsu - simple, crispy, golden pork cutlets that'll make your taste buds dance.
From classic favourites to innovative twists, Tanakatsu takes this signature Japanese dish to new heights. Trust me, it is absolutely the katsu lover's paradise.
5. Chisou Sushi and Izakaya
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Atmosphere
MENU MAP
Chisou Sushi and Izakaya in London is a hidden gem for Japanese food enthusiasts. Nestled in the bustling streets of London, it's your passport to a culinary journey to Japan through high-end shushies.
With a diverse menu that includes fresh sushi, perfectly crispy tempura, and an array of delightful Izakaya-style dishes. The well-known Japanese "Craftsmanship" reflects on those tiny delicate sashimi and nigiri. Nothing is more enjoyable than having every bite burst with luxurious flavours from top-notch ingredients.
If you're a sushi connoisseur, Chisou Sushi and Izakaya promises a memorable dining experience right in the heart of London.
3. MACHIYA
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MACHIYA is a unique "family-style "Japanese restaurant known for its intimate and comfortable atmosphere. At MACHIYA, you can witness the artistry of Japanese cooking through the "Itamae", ensuring you an authentic touch of Japan even in a foreign land.
One of MACHIYA's standout dishes is the mouthwatering Teriyaki Unagi (grilled eel) rice, served with a perfectly balanced sauce, rich but not heavy. The wooden tableware captures the essence of traditional Japanese aesthetics. MACHIYA excels in offering a variety of Japanese dishes, blending traditional home-style recipes with contemporary twists.
Comfort zone, comfort foods.
2. WA Cafe
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If you've been away from Japan for a while and find yourself missing Japanese pastries, "WA" in West London is the place to go.
Here, Japanese customers chat over black sesame lattes, while locals enjoy small cakes and coffee. "WA" starts baking its creamy cakes at 9:00 AM, available for both dine-in and takeout. Seasonal-flavoured cakes are often "sold like hot cakes' because they are also popular among the Japanese community.
Nothing is more delightful than Indulging in a slice of strawberry cream pie on a lazy afternoon at WA cafe.
1. TAIYAKIYA
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Atmosphere
Taiyakiya specializes in authentic Taiyaki from Tokyo, they are delectable fish-shaped pastries made from flour, eggs, sugar, and baking soda.
Taiyakiya offers a constantly evolving menu with new flavours, but classic flavours like red bean and custard are always the favourites. The buttery goodness blends seamlessly with the perfectly balanced eggy paste filling, offering a just-right sweetness. Combined with the crispy yet tender outer shell, it's a treat that leaves you craving another bag to take home.
Freshly made teriyaki is an absolute delight!
Now you have a list of the Top 8 most recommended Japanese restaurants in London, get ready with your food hunt.
Luckily, we now offer group and private courses for all levels. You can take these courses either online or in person at our London offices where you will meet lots of like-minded Japanese-food fans.