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Sushi in London ranges from intimate counters where a master shapes each piece before you to glossy dining rooms and dependable neighbourhood spots. This guide helps you choose, whether you are after a special-occasion omakase or a good, honest plate of nigiri.
The destination counters
For the purest experience, Sushi Tetsu in Clerkenwell is legendary, a tiny counter of a few seats run by a single chef, booked out far ahead. Endo at the Rotunda offers a refined omakase in a striking circular room, and The Araki in Mayfair remains a byword for high-end edomae sushi. These are occasions to plan around rather than drop into.
Glamour and everyday sushi
For sushi with more buzz, Roka and Zuma pair excellent fish with a lively room, and Sticks n Sushi is a reliable, well-priced option with branches across the city. For a quick, quality fix, the counters inside Japanese grocers and the better high-street specialists deliver far more than the supermarket version.
What is omakase?
Omakase means leaving the choice to the chef, who serves a sequence of sushi and small dishes at their discretion, usually at a counter. It is the way to experience a sushi master's craft at its best, and the format behind London's most celebrated sushi experiences such as Sushi Tetsu and Endo.
How much does good sushi cost in London?
A destination omakase can run to a significant sum, reflecting rare skill and imported fish. But everyday sushi is far more accessible, and reliable chains and grocer counters offer good quality at modest prices, so you can enjoy sushi at London at any budget.
Where to go next
See the wider best Japanese restaurants in London, warm up with the best ramen, or browse the best restaurants in London.
