Jin Kichi

You might imagine you’ve stepped into a Tokyo backstreet as you head through the door of this cute, cramped little Hampstead joint – no wonder locals adore the place. The best seats in the house snugly surround the robata grill, where seasoned chefs turn out hunks of succulent teriyaki salmon & skewers of yakitori. Surprise hits on the list include chicken gizzards & ox tongue; otherwise, play it safe with duck & spring onion or pork & asparagus. Sushi is handled with due care & attention to the quality of the raw materials, & prawn tempura, salmon & avocado or spicy tuna rolls feature just the right ratio of rice to filling. Cleanse your palate with refreshing plum wine: a bargain at £2.80 a glass. Slightly offbeat, yet generally efficient service adds to the charm, & the bill, though seemingly above average, is worth every penny.