Notting Hill has long been romanticised for its desirable pastel-coloured houses and connotations to everyone’s favourite romcom, but in recent years has gained a reputation as a hotbed for some of London’s swankiest restaurants. Juno, an omakase restaurant hidden at the top of Los Mochis, fits the mould perfectly with its chic interiors, top quality ingredients - and a price tag to match.
One of Juno’s most notable characteristics is its size; with just six seats in total it’s earned itself the title of London’s smallest restaurant, but you’ll not feel hard done by when it comes to space. Each diner is given a front row seat to the action around a sleek wooden counter, with executive chef Leonard Tanyag (ex Zuma) and head sushi chef Han Heung (ex Nobu) poised to prep and plate each 15 courses right in front of you.
For two hours you can marvel as the duo meticulously slice fish, press rice (with an exact amount of pressure) and decorate each plate. Guests can also chat with the chefs - a dream for any foodie - who are a true joy to be around; friendly, funny and clearly passionate about their craft.
The menu is largely based around raw seafood, but is worlds apart from your standard high street sushi, and each dish proves to be as delicious as the last. A few in particular left a lasting impression on us, including the ‘Chutoro’ which combines slices of fatty tuna to mellow a punchy jalapeno sauce, and the ‘Zuwaigani’ which provides a more playful approach inspired by Mexican street food, with blow torched snow crab, fish roe and spring onions in a taco.
To drink there’s both a sake and wine pairing on offer, but we opt for the former which provides an eye-opening look into the world of sake with various styles and flavours, all of which expertly compliment the food.
Juno may only be small, but it comes with a big personality - from both the top-tier food, and the convivial duo that take centre stage here. Much like its surrounding neighbourhood, it’s hard not to fall for the charm of this place.