Have you ever found yourself staring out your office window, wondering where to find the best sushi in London? Well, you’ve come to the right place. Sushi is the ultimate in clean cuisine with a complex flavour palette. There’s no dish quite like it. The combination of fresh fish, sticky rice, salty soy sauce and spicy wasabi is enough to make anyone’s mouth water.
We found out a few interesting things on our search. For one, it’s likely that the wasabi you’ve been eating is probably not wasabi at all. Outside of Japan, wasabi is often a mixture of horseradish, food colouring and mustard because the actual root is rare to come by and even more difficult to store. Also, once grated, it loses its flavour within 15 minutes. Crazy huh? Well, we happened to find one of the only restaurants in London that serves real wasabi, so you’ll have to read on to find out where you can try the real thing!
While we love an Itsu take away as much as the next person, we decided to investigate where the real sushi fiends get their fix. We set out on a quest to find the best sushi in London and after travelling through the different postcodes we sussed out some of the top places. Whether you’re looking for a quiet neighbourhood local or you’re geared up for a classy night out, we’ve rounded up the spots we think deserve the title of ‘Best Sushi in London’.
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Best for Date Night: Yama Momo
Found along the quaint Lordship Lane in East Dulwich, Yama Momo has all you need when you’re looking for a contemporary Japanese feast. Yama Momo offers up delicious Japanese and European fusion with a contemporary take on the classic Izakaya dishes. The real drawcard, though, is their sushi bar which is in the running for the best sushi in London. Make sure not to miss out on their exquisitely curated cocktail list which was crafted by top London mixologists. Highlights include the Geisha, a jasmine-infused Portobello Gin cocktail mixed with plum sake, lavender essential oil and grapefruit juice, and the Red Dragon, a Japanese Whisky cocktail muddled with fresh strawberries and coconut rum with a dragon fruit garnish.
72 Lordship Lane, Dulwich London, SE22 8HF
Best for Families: The Umi
Looking for a spot in South London that’ll have something for everyone? Then The Umi is the place for you. With an impressive selection of Izakaya plates, ramen and, of course, mouthwatering sushi, The Umi is a great option if you’re looking to keep everyone happy. While sushi is not often associated with being child-friendly, this cosy spot south of the river caters to the little ones too, so parents can enjoy their sushi without having to find a sitter. Don’t miss the Negi Hama Roll, a tasty yellowtail and spring onion roll with a kick.
4 Bedford Hill, London SW12 9RG
Best Neighbourhood Local: Uchi
Found along an unassuming side street in Clapton, Uchi is an authentic Japanese culinary experience like no other. Think minimalist furnishings, low lighting and a hand-written specials board and you can begin to imagine what your evening at Uchi will have in store. Select from a varied list of real-deal sake and make sure to try the unusual but sensational seared beef sushi. Other favourites include the senbei, or fried rice balls, the sashimi salad with ponzu shiso dressing and finally the black sesame seed ice cream. When considering the best sushi in London, Uchi is a strong contender.
144 Clarence Road, E5 8DY
Most Instagrammable: SushiSamba
Sushi with a view you say? How about lunch at the highest dining terrace in Europe? It doesn’t get better than SushiSamba. Located on the 38th and 39th floor of the Heron Tower, SushiSamba is quite literally the top of the pops when it comes to sushi restaurants in London. Not only does this classy joint have killer views, but it also has a menu that’ll knock your socks off. Whether you decide to sit inside or out on the terrace, you’re in for a treat. The restaurant boasts floor to ceiling windows and a grid of lights above your head that set the mood for a night of fine wining and dining. Given the outstanding setting, world-class menu and sensational drink selection, this London gem is an absolute must.
Heron Tower, London EC2N 4AY
Best Authentic Experience: Hot Stone Steak and Sushi Bar
Headed up by the legendary Padam Raj Rai, with almost two decades of experience in the Japanese culinary scene, Hot Stone Steak and Sushi Bar is a mix of trendy decor and real, full-bodied flavours. You know how we mentioned before that it’s rare to taste actually wasabi? Well, what makes this North London sushi joint all the more special is that it is one of the only places in London that serves real wasabi root with their sushi. If that’s not reason enough, Hot Stone also won the “Best Sushi in London” award as voted by the world’s largest food rating app Eaten. We’ll let you be the judge.
9 Chapel Market, The Angel, London N1 9EZ
Best Night Out: Kouzu
Step into the elegant Kouzu for a classy night of decadent dining. The low-lighting and classic furnishing set the scene at this Belgravia stand-out which offers authentic Japanese flavours and unbeatable culinary expertise. Looking to take your experience up a notch? Experience the seven-dish Omakase menu hand-crafted by chef extraordinaire Mario Isidro and his award-winning team. Expect innovative dishes with the tantalising flavours of yuzu, miso, tempura and daikon radish, not to mention the notorious Kouzu Chocolate dome with crisped rice and nougat.
21 Grosvenor Gardens, Belgravia, London, SW1W 0BD
So that concludes it. We searched far and wide to find the best sushi in London and managed to find a restaurant for every occasion. Next time you’re looking for a fresh and delicious meal, you’ll know exactly where you’re headed.
Tried a spot that you think serves the best sushi in London? Leave us a comment below or visit us on social media to share your top picks! Or for more fantastic food in the capital, check out our list of the best restaurants in London right now.
Written by Anna Degenaar