Teppanyaki, a traditional Japanese style of cooking, has gained immense popularity in London. The combination of exquisite Eastern flavors and select Western ingredients, paired with the mesmerizing Japanese ritual of preparing the meal right before your eyes, makes teppanyaki a unique and unforgettable dining experience. In this article, we will take you on a culinary journey through the best teppanyaki restaurants in London, where you can indulge in the flavors, aromas, and theatrical performances that make this style of cooking so special.
1. Benihana
Benihana is a renowned teppanyaki restaurant that has been serving authentic Japanese cuisine for over six decades. With multiple locations in London, Benihana has earned global accolades for its mouth-watering food and captivating chef performances. At Benihana, you can watch as the skilled chefs flip and sizzle the ingredients in the air before they land perfectly on your plate. The hibachi lunch, which includes a salad, prawn appetizer, hibachi vegetables, and hibachi rice, is a must-try. For a truly indulgent experience, try their signature dish, the "Benihana special," which combines hibachi steak with a succulent lobster tail. Benihana caters to various dietary requirements, including halal, vegan, gluten-free, and lactose-free options.
2. Abeno
Located on Museum Street in Bloomsbury, Abeno is the first Michelin-listed okonomiyaki restaurant in the world. Okonomiyaki, a type of savory pancake, is cooked on the hot plate right in front of you, just like teppanyaki. Abeno offers a delicious taste of Japan with its organic and sustainably sourced ingredients. Don't miss their kimchi and salmon sashimi, which perfectly complement the okonomiyaki. The friendly service and unassuming exterior of Abeno make it a hidden gem for Japanese food lovers in London.
3. OKA
For an unadulterated Japanese experience and some of the best teppanyaki in London, head to OKA. This restaurant offers a cozy and relaxed ambiance, where you can enjoy an exciting mix of cocktails alongside their seasonal and innovative teppanyaki dishes. The sushi and specialty rolls at OKA are highly recommended, especially the "dragon roll" with prawn tempura, asparagus, spicy mayo, and avocado. The bulgogi beef fillet with salad and herby chimichurri sauce is another standout dish. With various locations in London, OKA offers decent portions of food at an excellent price, ensuring a memorable dining experience .
4. Ginza St. James's
Ginza St. James's is known for its genuine Japanese cuisine and beautiful interior. This restaurant offers three cooking counters for teppanyaki, robata, and sushi, creating a myriad of flavors. The teppanyaki counter uses carbon lighting to maintain a constant heat, ensuring perfectly cooked dishes. The "Kagoshima beef" and "chicken teriyaki" are highlights at the teppanyaki counter. Don't miss their "kagoshima wagyu tartare" and "chicken karaage" for a delightful start to your meal. The extensive cocktail list, including the popular "bubbles" sake cocktail, adds to the overall experience. With a mention in the Michelin Guide, Ginza St. James's is the perfect place for a special occasion.
5. Hokkaido Teppanyaki Restaurant
Originally from Wakefield, Hokkaido Teppanyaki Restaurant has made its mark in London with its style of Japanese cuisine. Head Chef Master Hua, with over three decades of experience, ensures that every dish is prepared and cooked to perfection. Start your meal with their flavorful miso soup and indulge in their daily changing sushi and sashimi combinations. The donburi with chicken or prawn and the gyoza are fantastic options. Vegetarians and vegans will also find plenty of delicious choices. Don't miss their unique creation, the "Princess Maki," which features sushi with inari tofu skin and cucumber slices infused with the juice of red cabbage. Hokkaido Teppanyaki Restaurant offers a truly memorable teppanyaki experience in London.
6. Defune
Defune is one of the oldest Japanese restaurants in London, known for its great teppanyaki offerings. The two-story restaurant features a neutral and natural stone decor inspired by typical Japanese design. At Defune, you can have your food cooked at the table, sit at the sushi counter, or order à la carte. The "Chef's special teppanyaki" dinner menu, featuring lobster and wagyu beef or seafood, steals the show. The gastronomic feast includes appetizers, soup, king crab salad, sashimi, foie gras sauté, champagne sorbet, teppanyaki, and dessert. The attentive service, relaxing ambiance, and high-quality food make Defune a favorite among locals.
7. COSMO
COSMO offers a unique dining experience with its "food theatre" concept. This all-you-can-eat buffet restaurant serves a dazzling array of global cuisines, including Japanese, Indian, Thai, Chinese, and classic English carvery. If you're craving teppanyaki, COSMO's chefs will artfully prepare perfectly cooked steak, salmon, scallops, or tiger prawns right in front of you. Although not technically in London, COSMO's great food and affordable prices make it worth the trip. Gather your friends and enjoy a feast at COSMO .
In conclusion, London offers a wide range of teppanyaki restaurants that provide not only delicious food but also an immersive dining experience. From the captivating performances of skilled chefs to the tantalizing aromas and flavors of Japanese cuisine, these restaurants have something to offer for everyone. Whether you're a fan of traditional teppanyaki or looking to try something new like okonomiyaki, these establishments will satisfy your cravings and leave you with unforgettable memories. So, embark on a culinary journey and indulge in the best teppanyaki London has to offer.