Welcome to Café Japan
Café Japan, located in London, is a beloved destination for sushi aficionados seeking authentic Japanese cuisine. After a brief closure, this gem has returned under new ownership, maintaining its acclaimed menu featuring classics like the crispy yellowtail inside-out roll and agedashi tofu. Patrons rave about the freshness of the ingredients and the delightful flavor combinations, such as the exquisite miso aubergine. The atmosphere is cozy and welcoming, making it perfect for casual dining. With a focus on quality and tradition, Café Japan stands out as one of London’s best for a genuinely satisfying sushi experience.
Café Japan: Reviews & Ratings
We used to go to Cafe Japan for years and were so sad when it closed for a few years, with management/ownership changing. It was always excellent. Last night we finally went back after so many years, and let me tell you...it’s still excellent!! Despite new ownership, the menu is largely unchanged. The ‘greatest’ hits (at least the ones we love) like crispy yellowtail inside out roll (now called “cooked yellowtail inside out roll”), salmon salad (now called “Salmon Sashimi salad”), agedashi tofu (my photo shows two large square chunks, but you get four...I just forgot to photograph them before eating!), soft shell crab.....still amazing! We ordered Miso aubergine last night and it was sooo delish! If you have missed going to Cafe Japan....its time to go back, you won’t be disappointed.
Sushi was super delicious and ingredients were so fresh. The sake I had was also amazing and went so well with the sushi. This is so far one of the best sushi places I've ever had in London. Staff were also very friendly and helpful. Highly recommend and will definitely come back!
One of the best Japanese restaurants in London. Very authentic and for a decent price. You really get your bang for buck here. The quality of fish is extremely fresh and very high. I think the service could be slightly better if I had any feedback. Had to really flag somebody down to take our order and the food also does take quite a bit of time to come especially during peak dinner times. However, I highly recommend all sushi and sashimi lovers to come check it out!
The restaurant is clean, cosy and the service is very welcoming. And the food? The food is fab! We went for salmon and o-toro nigiri, spicy tuna and prawn tempura rolls, octopus karaage and giozas. The octopus was super tasty and well cooked (not too cheeky and not hard, just perfect!), and the sushi was simply put: amazing Definitely a must try restaurant if you appreciate good quality sushi and are in the area - We will come back for sure!
The best authentic Japanese restaurant in the UK, I ordered the Assorted Sushi Set A and the Ten Don ( 3 Tempura Prawns with Tempura Vegetables). The taste was so good, just like I was eating in Japan.
A sushi culinary experience! We especially love the eal nagiri, spicy tuna roll, the seared salmon nagiri in the sushi set and the sea urchinbwith quail egg.
this is the best japanese I have found in the UK. Their fishes are in top-notch quality. and they do know how to cut the sashimi properly as they do in Japan.
Best sashimi I’ve had in London ! I’ve tried many many Japanese restaurants in London and i / we were so impressed by the sashimi. The other foods were just as impressive but the sashimi for me is the headline piece. Do book in advance, and keep this place a secret :)
Location
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626 Finchley Rd, London NW11 7RR, United Kingdom Hotline: +44 20 4529 4202
Welcome to Café Japan, a culinary gem situated on the vibrant Finchley Road in London. This beloved spot, which has captured the hearts of many, is back in action after a brief hiatus, and it has retained the essence of what made it a staple for sushi lovers across the city.
Step inside and you are greeted by a clean, cozy ambiance that invites you to unwind. The first thing that hits you is the aroma of fresh ingredients, signaling that you are about to embark on a delightful journey through authentic Japanese cuisine. The menu at Café Japan may have seen slight tweaks under new ownership, but the fan-favorites remain largely unchanged, allowing loyal patrons to relish their cherished dishes once more.
One standout highlight is the crispy yellowtail inside out roll, now aptly named the “cooked yellowtail inside out roll.” This dish is a testament to their commitment to excellence, delivering a perfect balance of flavors and textures. For those seeking something warm and comforting, the famous agedashi tofu is a must-try—crispy on the outside with a silky tofu center, a dish that evokes nostalgia with every bite.
Your experience would be incomplete without sampling the delectable salmon sashimi salad, which is just one among several dishes that customers rave about. From soft shell crab to the intensely flavorful miso aubergine, every item on the menu speaks of quality and authenticity.
The staff at Café Japan enhances the overall dining experience with their warm hospitality and attentiveness, although, as noted by some guests, service can vary during peak hours. Nevertheless, it’s evident that the team strives to ensure that each guest feels welcomed and valued—a detail that elevates your visit.
In the world of sushi, freshness is paramount, and Café Japan excels in this area. Reviews highlight the high-quality fish, which is sourced with care and prepared with precision, ensuring that each sushi and sashimi creation is a delightful taste sensation. The rice is perfectly seasoned, complementing the fish and other components beautifully, making it one of London’s top recommendations for sushi enthusiasts.
For those who appreciate authentic Japanese flavors, Café Japan is not just a restaurant; it’s an experience that brings a slice of Japan to London. Whether you are a returning fan or a new guest, prepare yourself for a charming journey through some of the finest dishes this thriving culinary scene has to offer.