16 best omakase restaurants in London for truly memorable dining

Omakase restaurants have become almost commonplace in London over the last couple of years, catering in part to people’s increased love for proper sushi (no more of the pre-packaged supermarket stuff, thanks very much). Sure, it's definitely a special occasion kind of meal, but when it comes to dining that doesn’t disappoint, then London’s best omakase restaurants are guaranteed to deliver over and above.

First, what is omakase dining? The word ‘omakase’ translates as ‘I’ll leave it up to you’, and is a style of dining in which guests pass total control over to the chef. It originates from Japan, and allows the chef to create a completely unique experience for the diner, not just in terms of what the dishes are, but also how they are served.

It’s pretty special. Omakase menus are often served in an intimate setting with just a few diners, while paying attention to using supremely fresh fish and produce to create each dish. Such is the case with many of the restaurants in this list, with cosy little spots that offer unique, and rather exclusive dining experiences with as few as just six seats. These memorable omakase restaurants really span London’s culinary scene, with several even boasting Michelin stars for their efforts. That being said, you’ll also find a few London omakase restaurants that offer a more casual vibe, with affordable omakase menus and speedy sittings (the kind of places where you can dine in just 45 minutes from start to finish).

So, want to know where to eat the best omakase in London? Allow us to take you on a sushi-led journey, from a plethora of high-end spots in Mayfair through to more relaxed joints in Brixton and Soho. We’ve rounded-up the best of the best, including the chefs (read: sushi masters) who are at the top of their game.

Endo at the Rotunda, White City

What: Endo Kazutoshi is a third-generation sushi master who spent years training in Japanese kitchens in Tokyo, as well as working as the executive chef at global Japanese restaurant Zuma, before finally opening Endo at The Rotunda in 2019. Within the first six months of opening, it won a Michelin star, proof in itself of his stratospheric skill. Anyone lucky enough to bag themselves a seat will be guided through over 18 courses of Endo’s artistic, seasonal and elegant dishes. This immersive menu is yours for £275, a price tag that feels justified in every way once you've experienced it.
Where: 101 Wood Lane, W12 7FR
Book now: Endo at the Rotunda

Taku, Mayfair

What: Takuya Watanabe (Taku) is the founder and chef patron of Michelin-starred Jin Paris, although fortunately for us he decided to make the trip across the channel to open this Edomae omakase in Mayfair. The dining room is a serene oasis of pale woods and natural stone, setting the tone for a meal of pure artistry. A tasting omakase is served for lunch, with 17 courses, whilst evenings see a prestige offering packed full of premium ingredients, and a pricing to match. It might be expensive, but there’s a reason that Taku snagged its own star within just four months of opening.
Where: 36 Albemarle Street, W1S 4JE
Book now: Taku

LUNA Omakase, City of London

What: Tucked away inside Los Mochis City, LUNA Omakase is the latest opening from the group, bringing its slick, sophisticated dining to the City. You can expect Los Mochis' ever-present Mexican influences, although this is much more of a traditional Edomae omakase experience than its sibling JUNO. Diners will be treated with 12 courses, crafted by head chef Leonard Tanyag, with a menu designed to reflect the 12 cycles of the moon. Discover masterful techniques, sustainable produce, and stories from the chef's life, with wine or sake pairings available.
Where: 100 Liverpool Street, EC2M 2AT
Book now: LUNA Omakase

Sushi Kanesaka, Mayfair

What: Sushi Kanesaka made big waves when it arrived at 45 Park Lane toting a £420 omakase menu from one of the world’s most notable sushi masters. Shinji Kanesaka is joined by some of the most experienced of his two Michelin-starred Tokyo team, and though blisteringly expensive, you’ll struggle to find better fish anywhere in London.
Where: 45 Park Lane, W1K 1PN
Book now: Sushi Kanesaka

Mayha, Marylebone

What: Unlike most omakase in London, Mayha is not a Japanese import. Rather, the restaurant arrived from Lebanon, where it was displaced by the catastrophic Beirut explosion of 2020. This 11-seater chef’s counter is right at home in Marylebone, where chefs Yuichi Nakaya and Jurek Wasio turn out very thoughtful, seasonal Japanese dishes and some bold omakase sushi.
Where: 43 Chiltern Street, W1U 6LS
Book now: Mayha

JUNO Omakase, Notting Hill

What: This six-seat restaurant from the same team behind Los Mochis is one of the most exclusive omakase experiences you can book in London. If you're lucky enough to snag one of its coveted seats, you'll be taken on a 15-course journey guided by executive chef Leonard Tanyag who's unique menu might include the likes of fatty tuna with jalapeno sauce, or torched snow crab, fish roe and spring onion tacos. To clarify, this is Japanese dining with a Mexican twist, potentially making it one of the most unique omakase menus in the capital too. Complete the experience with a full sake, wine and agave pairing by the dedicated sommelier. 
Where: 2-4 Farmer Street, W8 7SN
Book now: JUNO Omakase

Maru, Mayfair

What: Third-generation sushi chef Taiji Maruyama has spent time perfecting his trade at the likes of three Michelin-starred Ginza in Tokyo, and global Japanese restaurant NOBU. Maru is all about celebrating the style of omotenashi, which translates as ‘wholeheartedly looking after your guest’. In practice, this sees Maruyama involved in every part of the experience, from the cooking to the décor and service. Needless to say, you’re in safe hands here.
Where: 18 Shepherds Market, W1J 7QH
Book now: Maru

Kurisu Omakase, Brixton

What: Kurisu Omakase is certainly one of the smallest restaurants in this list with just eight seats, but it’s also making a major impression on London’s omakase dining scene. The experience is utterly unique, with head chef Chris Restrepo cooking up distinctive Japanese dishes influenced by his Thai-Colombian heritage. The restaurant is fairly casual, but one that’s attracted the attention of some of the top sushi chefs in the capital, from Endo Kazutoshi to the team at The Araki. If you can get a seat here (good luck) you won’t be disappointed.
Where: 58D Atlantic Road, SW9 8PY
Book now: Kurisu Omakase

The Aubrey, Knightsbridge

What: Making its mark on London's omakase scene with a totally unique offering is izakaya-inspired The Aubrey at Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park. For the complete experience, guests can head to The Ukiyo Room, bringing a backdrop of Japanese hedonism and extravagance, with the classic 'I'll leave it up to you' principles, that brings ten courses alongside thoughtfully paired drinks. The two-hour experience will see the likes of A5 Wagyu gunkan with caviar or slow cooked lobster with uni, washed down with everything from Champagne and wine to sake and cocktails. It's an immersive, intimate and highly personal experience that's sure to make an impression. 
Where: 66 Knightsbridge, SW1X 7LA
Book now: The Aubrey

The Araki, Mayfair

What: There’s no getting away from the fact that The Araki is pricey – we're talking £310 per head. But then we are in Mayfair, and this is probably one of the best examples of omakase dining in London. There is only one menu and it revolves entirely around sushi, with head chef Mitsuhiro Araki bringing his experience from time spent at his three-Michelin starred restaurant Ginza in Tokyo. Guests can expect to experience authentic Edomae sushi prepared using the freshest ingredients and served by Araki himself.
Where: 12 New Burlington Street, W1S 3BH
Book now: The Araki

Engawa, Soho

What: Engawa serves either a four or five-course omakase menu for £100 and £130 respectively, for those looking for something a tad more affordable. This begins with a daily selection of appetisers, and assorted sashimi, followed by a chef’s special (you'll have to find out what’s on offer on the day), soups, a main bento box, as well as chef’s choice for something sweet. Specialising in high-grade Kobe beef, we recommend opting for the longer option so you can try some of its Wagyu beef.
Where: 2 Ham Yard, W1D 7DT
Book now: Engawa

Sushi Atelier, Fitzrovia

What: This casual spot specialises in modern sushi, but you can also find carpaccios, dumplings, salads and ceviches on the list. While it predominantly serves an a la carte menu, there is the option to choose an omakase sushi or omakase sashimi experience to try some of its signature creations. Take a seat at the bar to watch the chefs prepare their hand-crafted sushi behind the counter.
Where: 114 Great Portland Street, W1W 6PA
Book now: Sushi Atelier

Kazu, Fitzrovia

What: Kazu serves over 100 Japanese dishes from sushi and sashimi to grills and tempuras. Located in the heart of Fitzrovia, it also offers a dedicated sashimi omakase menu which includes a chef’s selection of sashimi pieces. A sushi counter and open kitchen lie at the centre of the restaurant, with guests able to peek into the inner workings of the restaurant, with its skilled chefs on show. 
Where: 64 Charlotte Street, W1T 4QD
Book now: Kazu

Junsei, Marylebone

What: Found in the heart of Marylebone, Junsei is ideal for those looking for something a tad more lowkey, bringing a zero-waste ethos that utilises every part of the chicken. This yakitori specialist spends its time cooking skewers over a binchotan grill, offering something different for your omakase experience. Here, you can leave it up to Junsei’s chefs and enjoy an ever-changing selection of seasonal plates. 
Where: 132 Seymour Place, W1H 1NS
Book now: Junsei

Cubé, Mayfair

What: Mayfair has become a mecca for omakase restaurants, not least because the area is synonymous with luxury. Enter another upmarket addition to its dining scene - Cubé - a beautiful space with two sushi bars, featuring golden wood and clever lighting. It's at these bars that it serves its omakase menus, devised by chef-owner Takamasa Mogi and executive chef Nobuyuki Yamaguchi and including 10 kinds of nigiri sushi, one temaki roll and dessert.
Where: 4 Blenheim Street, W1S 1LB
Book now: Cubé

Takahashi, Wimbledon

What: This understated neighbourhood restaurant in South Wimbledon serves a spectacular array of seasonal dishes in simple, minimalist surrounds. Nobuhisa and Yuko Takahashi opened their restaurant in 2015 to offer traditional Japanese dishes with a focus on quality ingredients and clean flavours. One sitting can accommodate up to eight guests, while the menu is largely based around fish and seafood, with dessert and tea served after the meal. The whole experience is highly personal and sure to stay with you for a long time.
Where: 228 Merton Road, SW19 1EQ
Book now: Takahashi

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