Looking for somewhere trendy to host friends or family for a private dinner in Notting Hill? Stylish Japanese spot Ukai has a number of charming private spaces for hire.
Ukai is a Robata-style Japanese restaurant on Portobello Road, well-known for its accessible Japanese cooking, sushi rolls and theatrical cocktails. Eclectic interiors include everything from silk kimonos on the walls, to a large mural of Amy Winehouse over the open kitchen.
The menu draws inspiration both from Japan, but also from South America and the Mediterranean, channelling this wide ranging inspiration into a tight menu of ceviche, tataki, bao buns and dumplings, as well as sushi, sashimi, and tempura and Robata-grilled mains. The latter includes dishes like grilled squid with teriyaki sauce, roasted black cod in miso, Wagyu beef ribeye, and chicken yakitori with spring onion.
Ukai’s cocktail programme is also worth mentioning, as many visit the bar just for drinks. The drinks list shows off contemporary Japanese mixology, and features handcrafted bitters and syrups, with cocktails made from boats of over 200 different spirits and vermouths. Signatures include the Golden Geisha (arette reposado tequila, Nashi pear, lime, cinnamon syrup, elderflower and agave foam, edible gold) and Ukai Spritz (melon-infused gin, Aperol, grapefruit soda).
Private groups can order directly from the normal a la carte menu, and have a choice of different private hire spaces. The semi-private dining room is ideal for more casual dinners and catch-ups of up to 20 guests. Rather than being completely private, it connects to the main dining room, giving guests the benefit of the restaurant atmosphere, with a degree of privacy. Alternatively, there’s a 25-seat lounge where guests can hold drinks parties and celebrations. For larger occasions, Ukai is available for exclusive private hire.