London Foodie's review of Akari

Akari is quickly becoming my favourite ‘local Japanese’. I've done lots of travelling in Japan, and definately hanker after the food. Akari serves it very authentically, it tastes just as it does in Japan, it's not diluted to English taste. The place is always full of Japanese people (that's a good sign), but it can be difficult getting a table at times, so do call ahead and book. There's a mini sushi bar you can sit at where the sushi master preps it all in front of you, or you can sit in the main restaurant bit. Try Kaki Fry (that's deep fried oysters), and the grilled aubergine dish with dark miso paste on top (sorry, forgot the Japanese name). The kitchen is behind the ‘pub bar’ so you can watch all the activity whilst you eat, it makes for a great atmosphere.