Japanese Restaurants

Find the best Japanese restaurants in London for ramen, sushi, udon and other traditional dishes from Japan.

Japanese cuisine has a strong and growing presence in London, offering everything from high-end sushi to comforting bowls of ramen. Here are some notable categories and standout Japanese restaurants in London:

High-End Dining

For those seeking an upscale Japanese dining experience, London offers several Michelin-starred restaurants known for their exquisite craftsmanship and carefully curated menus.

The Araki: Originally hailing from Tokyo, Mitsuhiro Araki’s sushi restaurant in Mayfair is a fine-dining experience where only a handful of guests are served nightly. Specializing in the omakase-style (chef’s choice), the meal is an artful procession of the freshest sushi.
Endo at the Rotunda: Located in the White City area, Endo Kazutoshi delivers a highly personalized omakase experience. Set in a 10-seater space with stunning city views, this Michelin-starred restaurant focuses on seasonal ingredients and delicate flavours.
UMU: Another two-Michelin-starred restaurant, UMU in Mayfair specializes in kaiseki (multi-course meals) and is known for combining traditional Japanese techniques with modern European ingredients. The presentation is impeccable, and it’s a favourite for fans of haute cuisine.

Sushi Spots

If you’re a sushi enthusiast, London has no shortage of excellent sushi restaurants, many of which import fish directly from Japan.

Sushi Tetsu: A tiny, traditional sushi bar in Clerkenwell, Sushi Tetsu offers a more intimate and authentic experience. Known for its expertly crafted nigiri and sashimi, it’s incredibly difficult to book due to its limited seating and popularity.
Dinings SW3: Located in Knightsbridge, Dinings is a modern sushi restaurant blending Japanese traditions with European influences. The sushi is exceptional, but the menu also includes small plates like toro tartare and Japanese Wagyu beef.
Sticks’n’Sushi: This Scandinavian-Japanese fusion restaurant has several locations across London. It’s popular for combining high-quality sushi with a variety of grilled yakitori skewers, catering to both sushi lovers and those looking for something different.

Ramen and Casual Dining

London’s ramen scene has boomed in recent years, with many authentic and fusion options available.

Kanada-Ya: Located in Covent Garden, this is one of the top destinations for ramen in London. Known for its signature ramen, the rich broth and perfectly cooked noodles keep customers coming back.
Shoryu Ramen: Another popular chain, Shoryu offers a variety of ramen bowls, from classic to spicy karaka ramen. Its vibrant, casual atmosphere makes it a great spot for a quick and satisfying meal.

Izakayas and Casual Japanese Fare

For a more casual, tapas-style experience, izakayas in London offer Japanese food paired with drinks.

Flesh & Buns: Known for its fun, lively atmosphere, Flesh & Buns in Covent Garden specializes in steamed buns filled with crispy duck and fried fish, alongside other Japanese-inspired small plates.
Jidori: A trendy izakaya specializing in yakitori (grilled skewers), Jidori has locations in Dalston and Covent Garden. The skewers range from chicken and vegetables to creative fusion options, and they have an excellent sake selection.

Vegan Japanese

With the rise of plant-based dining, a few Japanese restaurants in London cater to vegan and vegetarian diets.

Itadaki Zen: Located in King’s Cross, Itadaki Zen is one of the few vegan Japanese restaurants in London. It offers traditional dishes such as sushi rolls, tempura, and bento boxes, all made with plant-based ingredients.
Wagamama (Vegan Menu): Though a chain, Wagamama has created an extensive vegan menu inspired by Japanese cuisine. Dishes like the vegan katsu curry and yasai ramen offer tasty, plant-based alternatives.

Dessert Spots

For those with a sweet tooth, London’s Japanese dessert scene offers some delightful treats.

Kova Patisserie: Located in Soho, Kova Patisserie is known for its Japanese-style cakes, including matcha mille crepe, taiyaki (fish-shaped pastries), and dorayaki (pancake sandwiches).
Sakurado: Another Japanese patisserie in Kensington, Sakurado specializes in mille crepe cakes and other matcha-infused desserts.

Whether you’re after traditional sushi, comforting ramen, or innovative Japanese fusion, London’s vibrant food scene has a plethora of options for fans of Japanese cuisine. The city's blend of authenticity and modernity ensures that there’s something for every palate and occasion.

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