An excellent addition to the London dining scene. The discreet entrance from Argyll Street via the dedicated lobby and lift makes arrival feel like a special occasion even before setting foot inside the restaurant itself. The design and layout of Aqua Kyoto reinforces the “special occasion” feel of the place. The ambience is warm and welcoming without feeling imposing or unfriendly in the way some other high end restaurants do. There is a buzz about the place, particularly with the open bar and kitchen areas, then becoming calmer and more intimate when you move through to the main dining area, with tables well spaced out so that you can converse without the feeling you are sharing your thoughts with your neighbours. Service was attentive, friendly and helpful without feeling intrusive in any way. The finally the food – I would run out of superlatives trying to describe it fully – the only slight complaint we have is that we over-ordered, but it was all too delicious to leave any, so we ended up eating way too much for the good of our waistlines!
We look forward to coming back in the summer when dining out on the one of the high level terraces overlooking London's rooftops will add a whole new dimension to the wonderful experience this glamorous and stylish new restaurant already has to offer.