Fitzrovia, Japanese Restaurant Guide

Open from March 11 2021 (initially for delivery only), a second, 50-cover, branch of Padam Raj Rai's ishiyaki and sushi restaurant, serving certified Kobe beef, one of only eight restaurants in the UK to do so. Once the restaurant is able to open its doors in May, diners can expect sushi and sashimi alongside maki rolls as well as Hot Stone’s signature Ishiyaki menu – inspired by the ancient Japanese art of cooking on a searing-hot stones; also, 48-hours marinated black cod. The interiors boast traditional wooden panelling, accent tiling and artwork by 18th century Japanese ukiyo-e painter Hokusai Katsushika.

“Really great sushi with a fusion feel” makes this modern Japanese, just north of Oxford Circus, from the Chisou group “a great place to become acquainted with Japanese food”. Sky-high ratings improved further in its second year – a good indication that the “friendly staff” are not resting on their laurels.

2018 Review: This little izakaya in the backstreets near Tottenham Court Road tube attracts a small but dedicated fan club, who say: “don’t look at the bill whatever you do, but prepare to be amazed by the food!”

“A great night out, with fab food and drinks” is the accepted wisdom on Ross Shonhan’s rocking izakayas, whose original, Soho-basement location looks set to be eclipsed by its new Fitzrovia sibling – an impressively large (170 covers) space, which adds Peruvian-Nikkei fusion-dishes and an expanded range of smoked meats to its more-established repertoire of Japanese faves (sushi, sashimi, filled steamed buns). It’s “amazing food that will leave you feeling VERY FULL”. Ratings are dragged down, though, by reporters who find the flavour combinations “odd”, or the overall package too expensive. Top Tip – “given that the main menu can be pricey: the set menu before 6pm or tasting menu is by far the best way to go”.

The second London outpost of this Japanese/South American fusion restaurant serves up temaki rolls, maki rolls and sashimi, as well as a selection of new Brazilian-influenced dishes. The original (also in Soho's Lexington Street) was hailed as the city's first temakeria when it opened in 2012.

A third branch of Soho's on-trend poké and matcha joint has opened in Fitzrovia; there's also a cafe in South Keinsngton.

2019 Review: No reports yet on this early 2018 opening – a ‘contemporary Japanese’ in fairly traditional style on Fitzrovia’s ‘restaurant row’, majoring in sushi. It has a good pedigree, with a head chef formerly of Chisou (Dham Kodituwakku).