Looking for the best authentic Japanese restaurant in london? Flesh & Buns is the place to go! With restaurants in Covent Garden and Oxford Circus that are izakaya-inspired, it will feel like you’re eating in Tokyo. We mix old Japanese recipes with new cooking ideas, making it a favourite spot for both locals and tourists who want to try something different.
Whether you’ve been searching “authentic Japanese restaurant near me” or are new to Japanese cuisine, this is where your culinary journey begins.
The Best Authentic Japanese Restaurant in London
Flesh & Buns is more than just a place to eat; it’s an experience, a short visit to Japan, and a taste of Asia. As the best authentic Japanese restaurant in London, we are famous for our steamed buns and other Japanese dishes. Our menu shows off all the different tastes of Japan, from street snacks to fancy restaurant meals. That’s why when you walk in, you can easily catch a whiff of grilled meats and hear the sizzle of hot plates, just like in a real Tokyo izakaya.
Special Dishes That Make You Say “Wow!”
The most famous dish here at Flesh & Buns is our steamed buns. They’re soft, fluffy, and filled with yummy fillings. But that’s not all we have! You can get sushi, sashimi, meat, and fish cooked on a special robata grill. One dish that lots of people love is the crispy piglet belly with mustard miso – both are traditionally Asian but often eaten separately. We believe that contrasting flavors, when mixed well, will turn into an unforgettable dish.
If you want to try a bit of everything, go for the Express Omakase menu. “Omakase” means “I’ll leave it up to you” in Japanese, so you’re trusting the chef to give you a really good meal. It’s great for a quick lunch or dinner before seeing a show.
A Treat for All Your Senses
At Flesh & Buns, we’re not just all about food, we’re also about the atmosphere, the vibes we bring to the function, you know? We have an open kitchen where you can watch the chefs cook. The design mixes old Japanese style with modern London looks. This means that you’ll never feel far from home while you’re also experiencing the real vibes of a Japanese izakaya.
Why Flesh & Buns Is Special
What makes Flesh & Buns the best authentic Japanese restaurant in London? Here are some reasons:
- A True Taste of Japan – From street food-style izakaya dishes to sushi, ramen, and elegant mains, it offers a full spectrum of Japanese dining styles.
- Fresh, Seasonal Ingredients – The chefs follow traditional Japanese techniques, using high-quality ingredients that change with the seasons.
- Beautifully Presented Dishes – Every plate is a visual treat, showcasing the Japanese art of food presentation.
- Cultural Immersion – It’s more than a meal. You get a cultural experience rooted in Japanese customs, flavours, and hospitality.
- Rising Popularity of Japanese Food in the UK – As more Brits fall in love with Japanese cuisine, Flesh & Buns leads the way with authentic flavours and innovation.
- Regional Specialities on the Menu – Discover rare Japanese dishes you won’t find just anywhere in London.
- Fusion with British Ingredients – A creative twist where local produce meets traditional Japanese recipes, giving dishes a unique London flair.
- Omakase Dining Trend – Enjoy the rising trend of “chef’s choice” menus, where you leave it to the expert to surprise you with the best bites of the day.
- Respect for Japanese Etiquette – From table service to plating, the entire experience reflects Japanese values of respect, detail, and balance.
- Accessible for Every Budget – Whether you’re going casual or celebrating big, there’s something for everyone—from express lunches to indulgent dinners.
Food for Every Kind of Foodie
No matter your diet, you’ll have choices here. From vegan and vegetarian dishes to gluten-free ones, we’re inclusive of everyone, and we don’t want you to miss out on all the fun here at Flesh & Buns. As the best authentic Japanese restaurant in London, we use fresh, high-quality ingredients to make sure each dish is a feast for the palate. The chefs have worked hard to make plant-based dishes that are just as yummy as the meat ones. In fact, we have heard a lot of great things about our mushroom tofu bao!
We also have a really cool drinks menu with special cocktails and lots of different kinds of sake. These drinks go really well with the food and make your meal even better. The bar team has made cocktails using Japanese ingredients like yuzu, shiso, and matcha. If you also like sake, we have many different kinds to try, from common sake brands to rare, special ones.
Convenient Locations
Flesh & Buns has two restaurants in London, so it’s easy for both locals and tourists to visit. The Covent Garden one is great if you’re exploring the West End, and the Oxford Circus one is perfect if you’re out shopping. Each place feels a bit different. The Covent Garden restaurant feels cosy and theatrical, while the Oxford Circus one looks more modern and sleek.
[MENU FOR OXFORD CIRCUS] [MENU FOR COVENT GARDEN]
Don’t Just Try Buns, Try Our Sushi Too
Even though we are famous for our steamed buns, our sushi is also one of a kind. We use the freshest fish and make the rice just right. So, whether you like simple sashimi or fancy rolls, you’ll find sushi you love here. The sushi chefs have trained for a long time to make sure every piece of sushi looks and tastes perfect. If you want to try the best sushi they have, go for the omakase sushi platter – the chef will pick out the best fish of the day for you.
Come and Try Flesh & Buns
Want to try an authentic Japanese restaurant in London? It’s easy to book a table at Flesh & Buns. Whether you’re planning a date, a party with friends, or a quick meal before seeing a show, they’ve got you covered. You can choose the day, time, and which restaurant you want to go to. If you’re planning something special or have a big group, they can help you plan a perfect meal, even with special menus or private rooms.
A Taste of Japan Without the Jet Lag
Flesh & Buns is best authentic Japanese restaurant in London. With classic Japanese flavour with modern izakaya-like atmosphere, the whole place will surely feel exciting. So, whether you eat Japanese food all the time or you’re trying it for the first time, you’ll love Flesh & Buns. It’s not just about the yummy food – it’s about the authentic Japanese izakaya experience.
So why not give it a try? Whether you want a quick lunch, a special dinner, or a place to celebrate something important, Flesh & Buns gives you a real Japanese experience right in the middle of London.
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