London boasts a remarkable array of Japanese restaurants, each offering an authentic taste of Japan’s rich culinary heritage.
Join us as we explore the top 15 Japanese restaurants in London for 2024, where every dish tells a story of tradition, innovation, and meticulous craftsmanship.
1. The Araki
The Araki: Nestled in the heart of Mayfair, The Araki is an exclusive sushi restaurant with just nine seats, providing an intimate and unparalleled dining experience. Helmed by Master Sushi Chef Mitsuhiro Araki, this three-Michelin-starred restaurant is renowned for its exquisite omakase menu, where each piece of sushi is a work of art.
The Araki’s meticulous attention to detail and use of the finest ingredients make it a must-visit for sushi aficionados.
Address
Unit 4, 12 New Burlington St, London W1S 3BF, United Kingdom
Operating Hours
Saturday: 6–8 PM, 8:30–11:30 PM; Sunday & Monday: Closed; Tuesday to Friday: 6–8 PM, 8:30–11:30 PM
Best For
Japanese Restaurants in London
2. Roka
Roka: Located in the bustling Fitzrovia district, Roka has been a staple of contemporary Japanese dining since 2004. Known for its vibrant atmosphere and robatayaki (charcoal-grilled) dishes, Roka offers a dynamic dining experience.
Signature dishes like the Black Cod Marinated in Yuzu Miso and the Yellowtail Sashimi with Yuzu-truffle Dressing highlight the restaurant’s innovative approach to Japanese cuisine.
Address
37 Charlotte St., London W1T 1RR, United Kingdom
Operating Hours
Saturday: 12–11 PM; Sunday: 12–10:30 PM; Monday to Thursday: 12–3:30 PM, 5–10:30 PM; Friday: 12–3:30 PM, 5–11 PM
Best For
Japanese Restaurants in London
3. Nobu London
Nobu London : Nobu London, situated in the heart of Mayfair, is the flagship UK restaurant of the globally renowned Nobu brand. Since opening in 1997, it has been celebrated for its fusion of Japanese and Peruvian flavors.
With a chic, modern ambiance, Nobu offers dishes like the iconic Black Cod with Miso and the delectable Yellowtail Jalapeño, providing a dining experience that blends tradition with innovation.
Address
19 Old Park Ln, London W1K 1LB, United Kingdom
Operating Hours
Saturday: 12:30–2:30 PM, 6–10:30 PM; Sunday: 12:30–2:30 PM, 6–10 PM; Monday to Wednesday: 12–2:30 PM, 6–10 PM; Thursday & Friday: 12–2:30 PM, 6–10:30 PM
Best For
Japanese Restaurants in London
4. Zuma
Zuma: Located in Knightsbridge, Zuma offers a sophisticated yet relaxed dining experience, blending traditional Japanese flavors with contemporary flair.
Since 2002, Zuma has captivated diners with its stylish décor and open-plan kitchen, where chefs prepare exquisite dishes like the Tuna Tataki with Chili Daikon and the Spicy Beef Tenderloin with Sesame. Zuma’s impeccable service and culinary excellence make it a top choice for Japanese cuisine in London.
Address
5 Raphael St, London SW7 1DL, United Kingdom
Operating Hours
Saturday: 12–3:30 PM, 6–11 PM; Sunday: 12–3:30 PM, 6–10:30 PM; Monday to Friday: 12–3 PM, 6–11 PM
Best For
Japanese Restaurants in London
5. Sushisamba
Sushisamba: Perched high above the city in the iconic Heron Tower, Sushisamba offers breathtaking views alongside its unique fusion of Japanese, Brazilian, and Peruvian cuisine. Since opening in 2012, Sushisamba has been a go-to destination for innovative dishes like the Samba Roll and the Moqueca Mista.
The vibrant atmosphere and stunning vistas make Sushisamba a dining experience like no other.
Address
Heron Tower, Bishopsgate, London EC2N 4AY, United Kingdom
Operating Hours
Monday to Sunday: 12 PM–1:30 AM
Best For
Japanese Restaurants in London
6. Umu
Umu: Tucked away in Mayfair, Umu is a Michelin-starred restaurant renowned for its kaiseki (multi-course) dining experience. Since 2004, Umu has been dedicated to preserving the art of Japanese cuisine, using seasonal ingredients and traditional techniques.
Signature dishes like the Grilled Wagyu Beef and the Assorted Sashimi Platter highlight Umu’s commitment to excellence and authenticity.
Address
14-16 Bruton Pl, London W1J 6LX, United Kingdom
Operating Hours
Saturday: 12–2 PM, 6–10 PM; Sunday & Monday: Closed; Tuesday to Friday: 12–2 PM, 6–10 PM
Best For
Japanese Restaurants in London
7. Dinings SW3
Dinings SW3: Dinings SW3, nestled in a charming mews in Knightsbridge, offers an intimate and contemporary take on Japanese cuisine.
Since opening in 2017, it has been celebrated for its unique sushi and izakaya-style dishes. With a focus on high-quality ingredients and innovative presentation, Dinings SW3 delights diners with creations like the Toro Tartare and the Wagyu Sushi.
Address
Walton House, Lennox Gardens Mews, Walton St, London SW3 2JH, United Kingdom
Operating Hours
Saturday: 12–3:30 PM, 4:45–10:45 PM; Sunday: 12–3:30 PM, 4:45–10:30 PM; Monday: 5–10:30 PM; Tuesday & Wednesday: 12–3:30 PM, 4:45–10:30 PM; Thursday & Friday: 12–3:30 PM, 4:45–10:45 PM
Best For
Japanese Restaurants in London
8. Engawa
Engawa: Nestled in Soho’s Ham Yard, Engawa offers an intimate and elegant dining experience, focusing on the traditional Japanese art of kaiseki.
Since 2015, Engawa has impressed diners with its meticulous presentation and exquisite flavors. Signature dishes like the Kobe Beef Tataki and the Seasonal Omakase Course showcase Engawa’s dedication to culinary perfection and seasonal ingredients.
Address
2 Ham Yard, London W1D 7DT, United Kingdom
Operating Hours
Saturday & Sunday: 12–11 PM; Monday & Tuesday: Closed; Wednesday & Thursday: 6–11 PM; Friday: 12–11 PM
Best For
Japanese Restaurants in London
9. Sushi Tetsu
Sushi Tetsu: Sushi Tetsu, a hidden gem in Clerkenwell, offers an exclusive and intimate sushi experience with only seven seats at the counter.
Since 2012, Chef Toru Takahashi has been enchanting diners with his masterful sushi creations, prepared with the finest ingredients. Each piece of sushi at Sushi Tetsu is crafted with precision and care, providing an unforgettable dining experience.
Address
12 Jerusalem Passage, London EC1V 4JP, United Kingdom
Best For
Japanese Restaurants in London
10. Yashin Ocean House
Yashin Ocean House: Yashin Ocean House, located in South Kensington, offers a unique and contemporary approach to Japanese seafood dishes. Since 2014, Yashin has been known for its innovative sushi and sashimi, served without soy sauce to highlight the natural flavors of the fish.
Signature dishes like the Sushi Omakase and the Grilled Lobster with Ponzu Butter exemplify Yashin’s creative culinary philosophy.
Address
117, 119 Old Brompton Rd, South Kensington, London SW7 3RN, United Kingdom
Operating Hours
Saturday: 12–3 PM, 6–11 PM; Sunday: 12–4 PM, 6–10 PM; Monday to Friday: 12–3 PM, 6–11 PM
Best For
Japanese Restaurants in London
11. Shoryu Ramen
Shoryu Ramen: Shoryu Ramen, in the heart of St. James’s, has been delighting ramen enthusiasts since 2012. Specializing in Hakata tonkotsu ramen, Shoryu offers a comforting and flavorful dining experience.
From the signature Shoryu Ganso Tonkotsu to the Spicy Miso Ramen, each bowl is crafted with rich, umami-packed broth and perfectly cooked noodles, making it a must-visit for ramen lovers.
Address
9 Regent St., St. James's, London SW1Y 4LR, United Kingdom
Operating Hours
Saturday: 11:30 AM–11 PM; Sunday: 11:30 AM–10 PM; Monday to Thursday: 11:30 AM–10:30 PM; Friday: 11:30 AM–11 PM
Best For
Japanese Restaurants in London
12. Koya Soho
Koya Soho: Koya Bar, a cozy eatery in Soho, has been serving authentic and comforting udon dishes since 2013. Known for its handmade noodles and flavorful broths, Koya Bar offers a true taste of Japan.
From the simple yet satisfying Kake Udon to the rich Curry Udon, each dish is crafted with traditional techniques and a dedication to quality.
Address
50 Frith St, London W1D 4SQ, United Kingdom
Operating Hours
Monday to Friday: 10 AM–10 PM; Saturday & Sunday: 10 AM–10 PM
Best For
Japanese Restaurants in London
13. Bone Daddies Soho
Bone Daddies Soho: Bone Daddies, located in the heart of Soho, brings a rock-and-roll vibe to traditional Japanese ramen. Since opening in 2012, it has been a favorite for its bold flavors and casual atmosphere.
Signature dishes like the Tonkotsu Ramen and the Spicy Miso Ramen are packed with rich, hearty broths and topped with tender chashu pork, making Bone Daddies a must-visit for ramen enthusiasts.
Address
31 Peter St, London W1F 0AR, United Kingdom
Operating Hours
Monday to Wednesday: 11:30 AM–10 PM; Thursday to Saturday: 11:30 AM–11 PM; Sunday: 11:30 AM–10 PM
Best For
Japanese Restaurants in London
14. Sticks’n’Sushi
Sticks’n’Sushi: Sticks’n’Sushi, situated in Covent Garden, offers a fusion of Danish and Japanese culinary traditions since 2013. With its sleek design and innovative menu, Sticks’n’Sushi provides a unique dining experience.
Signature dishes like the Hell’s Kitchen Roll and the Yakitori Skewers showcase the restaurant’s creative approach to sushi and grilled delicacies.
Address
11 Henrietta St, London WC2E 8PY, United Kingdom
Operating Hours
Monday to Saturday: 12–11 PM; Sunday: 12–10 PM
Best For
Japanese Restaurants in London
15. Ikeda
Ikeda: Ikeda, a hidden gem in Mayfair, has been delighting diners with its authentic Japanese cuisine since 1975. Known for its traditional dishes and serene ambiance, Ikeda offers a genuine taste of Japan.
From the delicate Sashimi Platter to the flavorful Sukiyaki, each dish is crafted with precision and care, making Ikeda a cherished destination for Japanese food lovers.
Address
30 Brook St, London W1K 5DJ, United Kingdom
Operating Hours
Monday to Thursday: 12–1:45 PM, 6–9 PM; Friday: 5–9 PM; Saturday and Sunday: Closed
Best For
Japanese Restaurants in London
Embark on a culinary journey through London’s top Japanese restaurants and savor the exquisite flavors and traditions of Japan in every bite!
