Bankside, Japanese Restaurant Guide

2021 Review: “Healthy ramen bowls” and “the best karaage fried chicken in town” are the secrets behind the rapid growth of the cramped Japanese pitstops, of which there are now 10 in London – the most recent openings, in Shoreditch and Peckham, having followed a £5million investment in 2019. They provide “a meal that could fill you up for a day”, with “excellent service from a really friendly team who go the extra mile”.

2021 Review: “The #1 Japanese noodles in London” – especially for those who prefer udon, the fat wheat noodles eaten hot or cold that are a healthier alternative to ubiquitous ramen. The eleven-year-old Soho original has been joined by a City bar in the Bloomberg Arcade, although an offshoot at Victoria Market Halls closed after only six months this year. Choose the “very interesting specials and consistently good udon – the rice dishes are nice, but not as memorable”. Top Tip – “one of the few Japanese restaurants open for breakfast in the West End”.

2021 Review: Bustling “no-frills” Japanese canteens that serve “great value” noodles and sushi at an efficient pace. The Soho original of over two decades standing has now been joined by branches in the City, Balham and most recently Kennington (which is a little more spacious).

2021 Review: “Good value” sushi, sashimi and other Japanese dishes trundle past your seat at these two ‘kaiten’ (conveyor-belt) operations in the City, tempting you to help yourself. It makes a fun, fast and efficient way to grab lunch. The chain also has takeaway and delivery options for evenings.