Tucked away inside the grand surroundings of County Hall, just moments from the London Eye, Okan South Bank offers a slice of Osaka in the heart of central London. This compact, characterful restaurant has earned a loyal following for its dedication to authentic Japanese comfort food, with a particular focus on the street-food dishes that define the cuisine of Japan’s second city. Founded by Osaka-born chef Moto Priestman, Okan was created as a way of sharing the flavours and traditions she grew up with, and that sense of personal heritage runs through every aspect of the restaurant.
The dining room is intimate and unpretentious, with counter seating overlooking the kitchen and a handful of small tables creating the atmosphere of a traditional neighbourhood eatery. Rather than focusing on sushi, Okan champions regional specialities that remain relatively underrepresented in London. The headline act is okonomiyaki: Japan’s famous savoury pancake, cooked on a teppan grill and layered with ingredients such as pork belly, seafood, vegetables and rich, umami-packed sauces. Alongside these are favourites including yakisoba noodles, donburi rice bowls, gyoza and a selection of izakaya-style small plates designed for sharing.
What makes Okan particularly appealing is its commitment to simplicity and authenticity. The food is hearty, flavourful and prepared with a clear respect for traditional Japanese techniques, while the relaxed setting encourages you to dive into a selection of premium sake, Japanese beers and a spread of comforting dishes.
Despite its location in one of London’s busiest tourist districts, Okan retains the feel of a hidden local gem, popular with both Japanese diners and those in search of something beyond the capital’s standard sushi offering. For an affordable introduction to Osaka’s vibrant food culture, Okan South Bank is a charming and distinctive destination that delivers genuine Japanese home-style cooking in an atmospheric setting.