Finding an izakaya restaurant in London that delivers both excitement and authenticity can feel like an impossible task. Too often, we settle for forgettable menus, bland interiors, and food that’s more style than substance. Enter Flesh & Buns—a Japanese izakaya in London that changes the game. With bold flavours, a playful vibe, and two buzzing locations, this article brings you inside a dining experience that actually delivers on the hype.
What is an Izakaya?
Before diving into what makes Flesh & Buns so special, it helps to understand the concept of an izakaya. In Japan, izakayas are casual pubs where friends gather after work to drink, unwind, and share small plates of food. The word itself blends ‘i’ (to stay) and ‘sakaya’ (sake shop), highlighting its origins as a place where customers would enjoy a drink and linger. Unlike formal dining settings, izakayas are social, energetic, and meant for communal enjoyment.
Flesh & Buns captures this atmosphere perfectly, offering a standout option for anyone looking for a Japanese izakaya in London. From the vibrant decor and upbeat music to the theatrical open kitchens and friendly service, every detail is crafted to immerse you in the izakaya experience—with a London twist.
The Vibe: Where Tokyo Meets Soho
Step inside either of the two Flesh & Buns locations and discover what makes us a top London izakaya destination.
Covent Garden is nestled underground in the buzzing Seven Dials area, its dim lighting and industrial-chic design offering a cosy, cave-like sanctuary. The space is alive with chatter, sizzling grills, and the clinking of sake glasses. It’s intimate, dramatic, and undeniably cool.
Oxford Circus, by contrast, brings a fresh and vibrant energy. Bold artwork, sunken tables, lush greenery, and a wall of lucky waving cats create a playful, modern aesthetic. Here, you get the full spectacle of the Robata grill in action, making it ideal for both lively dinners and special occasions.
The Menu at Our Izakaya Restaurant in London
The Flesh & Buns menu is a curated celebration of Japanese flavours, designed for sharing. It’s built around the izakaya tradition of ordering multiple small plates, allowing guests to taste a bit of everything. Whether you’re after crunchy, sticky, spicy, or smoky, there’s something for every craving.
Must-Try Dishes:
- Crispy Piglet Belly: A standout favourite. Served with mustard miso, carrot pickle, and apple pickle, this dish balances richness with a sharp, tangy kick.
- Japanese Fried Chicken: Marinated in buttermilk, then fried until golden and crispy. Comes with rocoto chilli BBQ mayo for that addictive heat.
- Smoked Miso Brisket: A slow-cooked marvel with chipotle miso BBQ sauce, topped with pickled carrots and red chilli for contrast.
- Miso Grilled Aubergine: Vegetarian? No problem. This umami-rich dish features sweet miso glaze and sesame, paired with fresh cucumber and carrot pickles.
And of course, the star of the show: bao buns. These fluffy pillows are perfect vessels for meats and veggies alike, adding DIY fun and theatre to the dining experience.
Signature Dining Experiences
Flesh & Buns doesn’t stop at a la carte excellence. As a leading izakaya restaurant in London, we’ve crafted a variety of set menus and experiences that elevate casual dining to something unforgettable.
Bottomless Brunch
Weekend warriors, rejoice. The Bottomless Brunch offers a riot of flavours alongside 90 minutes of free-flowing drinks—Prosecco, Asahi beer, or mocktails. You’ll dive into skewers, bao buns, and small plates galore. It’s indulgent, energetic, and perfect for birthdays, catch-ups, or just because it’s the weekend.
Discover the Bottomless Brunch →
Express Omakase (Lunch & Pre-Theatre)
Short on time? The Express Omakase Menu is your answer. Available before 6:45 PM and after 10:00 AM daily, this three-course offering features edamame, grilled skewers, and a main served with bao buns. It’s fast, flavourful, and excellent value at just £25.
View Lunch & Pre-Theatre Menu →
Tasting Menu
For those who want it all, the £50 Tasting Menu delivers a culinary journey through Flesh & Buns’ greatest hits. From sushi and wings to duck legs and s’mores, it’s a guided exploration of bold Japanese flavours.
Drinks: More Than Just Sake
While sake is front and centre (as it should be), the drinks menu is impressively diverse. Expect Japanese whiskies, plum wine, Asahi on tap, inventive cocktails, and even themed mocktails. Each drink is thoughtfully selected to enhance the dishes, whether you’re sipping solo or pairing with every course.
Read more about our sake experience →
Private Dining: Celebrate the Izakaya Way
Planning a celebration? Both venues offer private and semi-private dining spaces perfect for birthdays, corporate events, or any excuse to gather your crew.
- Oxford Circus: Private dining rooms seat 10–40 guests, including a Chef’s Table with front-row views of the grill.
- Covent Garden: An atmospheric underground setting ideal for groups of 15–24.
All private bookings include tailored menus and unforgettable hospitality.
Give the Gift of Good Taste
Not sure what to get that friend who “has everything”? Give them a dining experience they won’t forget. Flesh & Buns offers gift cards for tasting menus, brunches, or custom amounts.
Book Your Table Today
Whether you’re craving bao buns, planning a brunch, or organising a private feast, Flesh & Buns delivers every time. It’s more than a meal—it’s a mood. A bold, cheeky, flavour-bursting celebration of everything an izakaya should be.
