15 Best Sushi Trains Of London

15 Best Sushi Trains Of London

*Originally published by Isabelle and Updated by Vanessa October in 2022 and Updated by Vanessa R in September 2023 and by Vanessa M in February 2024.

1. Kulu Kulu, Covent Garden

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This compact Japanese restaurant is one of the first that comes to mind when thinking about quality sushi trains in London. Both visitors to the capital and locals alike consistently praise their wide range of sushi dishes served in a laid back atmosphere.

It’s so popular, in fact, that you may encounter a queue at lunchtime as hungry tourists collide with local employees on their lunch breaks, so head there outside of lunchtime for a bit more space and quiet. The prices are extremely reasonable for the area, and staff are attentive and friendly. Regulars recommend sitting on the right of the restaurant to get the first pick of the freshest food coming round on the conveyor belt, and the tempura dishes are especially good if you nab them while they’re still piping hot.

The best thing about sushi served this way, as in, no kaiten, on the conveyor belt, is that you can enjoy eating as much or as little as you like, and at your own pace too. Whether you want to relax for a while with friends and savour a range of dishes as and when they arrive, or you’re on your own and are just looking for a fast, convenient quality meal, Kulu Kulu can accommodate you either way. Just don’t forget to enjoy your complimentary cup of green tea!

WEBSITE

Address: 76 Brewer St, Soho, London W1F 9TU

Opening times: Monday – Saturday: 12 – 2:30pm, 5pm – 10:30pm, Sunday: Closed

2. Sushi Hiroba, Holborn

Sushi Hiroba Online

Tucked away just a short distance from Holborn underground station, Sushi Hiroba is a classic, communal eatery serving sushi and hot Japanese dishes, both made to order and from a conveyor belt. The interior of the restaurant is dimly lit, and the decor is traditional Japanese  and minimalist.

The menu is considerably extensive, even for a sushi bar, and you’ll find all sorts on it, from elaborate stews for adventurous eaters, to the universally popular katsu curry. This makes Sushi Hiroba an excellent choice both for Japanese food connoisseurs and those who are new to the cuisine. You’ll find plenty of dishes loaded fresh onto the conveyor belt, so you won’t be waiting long to try something new.

Had enough of eating but don’t want the fun to stop? In the basement of the restaurant you’ll find a karaoke booth, perfect for singing off all that sake. Its location makes Sushi Hiroba perfect for a quick bite before taking in a show at one of the many theatres in the area, and the quick nature of the sushi train means you’re guaranteed a decent meal, whether you have 30 minutes or over an hour.

Permanently Closed

Address: 50-54 Kingsway, Holborn, London WC2B 6EP

3. Moshi Moshi Sushi, Liverpool Street

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Conveniently located within Liverpool Street Train Station, Moshi Moshi is a perfect sushi bar for refueling after a long train journey, or grabbing a quick bite before embarking on a trip out of London.

The restaurant proudly carries the award of London’s first sushi restaurant to use a conveyor belt, and all its classic dishes travel around it, beautifully presented. Whatever dishes you choose, you can be guaranteed that they will be super fresh, and for ultimate freshness the restaurant even offers a catch of the day meal. And the best part is that it’s a sushi feast which you can enjoy with a clear conscience.

Moshi Moshi is consistently rated among London’s most sustainable restaurants, and sustainability is top of their list when it comes to their business values. All wild caught fish is sourced outside of mass industrial fishing techniques, using smaller harvesting such as pole and line catching. If the fish is farmed, it is done organically and in small batches.

Their meat is also grass fed and free range. Moshi Moshi pride themselves on respecting staff, customers, and the environment, and you’ll easily be able to tell all that from just one visit.

website

Address: 24, Liverpool Street Station, Liverpool St, London EC2M 7QH

Opening times: Monday – Friday: 11:30am – 10pm, Saturday – Sunday: Closed

4. Sticks ‘n’ Sushi, various locations

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Originating in Copenhagen, the trendily named Sticks ‘n’ Sushi became an instant hit in Denmark’s capital and soon became one of their most successful and popular restaurant chains.

Since then, they haven’t been doing too bad here in London either since crossing the channel and expanding to several locations around the city. They market themselves as ‘a sushi restaurant even for those who don’t like fish,’ and they do this by offering an impressive range of both sushi and non-fish based dishes.

The inspiration for these is taken partially from Japanese cuisine, and in part from the restaurant’s Danish roots. This fusion between Asian and Scandinavian cuisine makes for some deliciously unusual dishes, such as shake carpaccio, and chiizu maki.

You can enjoy all this in the sleek, chic interiors that the chain is best known for, again combining Danish minimalism with classic Japanese touches. The menu of small plates, yakitori sticks and sushi dishes encourages sharing and sampling, making this an extra fun and social place to try new foods.

website

Address: Various locations

Opening times: Varies, see website

5. Yazu Sushi, Mayfair

Yazu Sushi Online

An unassuming but high quality sushi bar, Yazu Sushi prides itself on quality dishes made from fresh ingredients. You’ll find a wide selection of favourites on the conveyor belt as it moves slowly past you, such as California Hosomaki and Suzuki Nigiri. Make sure to sample the kimchi salad, as it’s known to be one of the healthiest dishes in the world.

The most interesting dishes come from the chef’s specials, which are updated daily with whatever’s freshest. It’s located not far from Buckingham Palace and Green Park Station, so expect a crowd made up mostly of tourists and some local office workers. That doesn’t detract from the fun, relaxed vibe however. The restaurant is on the smaller side, making for a cosy meal for a small group, or there’s also the option to take your sushi away if you prefer a bit more space elsewhere.

If you fancy exploring the area around the restaurant, make sure to take a look around Shepherd’s Market, an elegant Victorian piazza situated away from the hustle and bustle just a few streets away. You’ll find stalls, shops, eateries and regular events, perfect for treating yourself or buying gifts to take home.

website

Address: 46 Curzon St, Mayfair, London W1J 7UH

Opening times: Monday – Friday: 12 – 9:30pm, Saturday – Sunday: 1pm – 9:30pm

6.Endo at The Rotunda, White City

“The most flawless dinner I have had in a restaurant in more than 20 years as a critic,” said Giles Coren of his omakase sampling experience. As a result of additional excellent evaluations, Endo at The Rotunda now has a Michelin star and is one of the most sought-after tables in London.

Endo Kazutoshi, a third-generation sushi expert from Yokohama, leads each 20-course sitting, which is a personalised immersive experience. A historic cypress table with dishes is set in front of a white cloud light installation with sinuous wavy shapes. The restaurant’s slogan, “Sushi in the Clouds,” is a result of its location on the top level of the White City Television Center.

WEBSITE

ADDRESS: 8th Floor, The Helios, Television Centre, 101 Wood Ln, London W12 7FR, United Kingdom

OPENING HOURS: 6 PM-12 AM

7. Chisou, Mayfair

For its quick, fresh, and elegant Japanese lunches, Chisou has long been a Mayfair favourite among the stylish set. The interior features a sushi counter that is spotless and has beautiful blond wood accents. Ask the chef to give you one of the day’s best fish rolls at the sushi counter.

Start with the delicious horenso salad, a mound of spinach leaves topped with spicy tuna and a zingy yuzu sauce, before digging into thinly sliced nigiri and crunchy soft shell crab. For a special event, it is most definitely worth the price even though it is not inexpensive.

WEBSITE

ADDRESS: 22-23 Woodstock St, London W1C 2AR, United Kingdom

OPENING HOURS: 12 PM-3:30 PM

8. Sushi Atelier, Fitzrovia

The creators of Chisou, a traditional Japanese restaurant with locations in Mayfair and Knightsbridge, are the ones behind Sushi Atelier, their most recent venture. Carpaccios, steamed dumplings, and salads are offered alongside the sushi in an effort to make the establishment more relaxed.

A warm wooden bar dominates the room. However, the sushi is what you should really come for; try the tiger prawn with yuzu tobiko and the dragon roll with BBQ eel on top. Pick up quick bento boxes and mixed sushi sets during lunchtime, along with unlimited miso soup and salad on the side.

WEBSITE

ADDRESS:  Sushi Atelier, 114 Great Portland Street, London W1W 6PA

OPENING HOURS: 12 PM-09:45 PM

9. Takahashi, Wimbledon

A second former employee of Nobu is the brainchild behind South Wimbledon’s modestly sized sushi joint Takahashi. The menu item for black miso cod gives it away, but after that, things get confusing. The Mediterranean influence is strong at Takahashi, where “tapas” dishes such as free-range crispy pork belly with aubergine miso and Cornish scallop carpaccio with yuzu salsa are offered.

Numerous sushi options are available, including spicy tuna, crab avocado, and snow crab among the maki, as well as pink shrimp, eel, and nigiri. Salmon and smoky toro taku are traditional hosomaki (just one filling). The level of cooking is higher than you might anticipate from a neighbourhood restaurant because it is owned by a husband and wife partnership.

WEBSITE

ADDRESS: Takahashi, 228 Merton Road, London SW19 1EQ

OPENING HOURS:7:30 PM -10:30 PM

10. SushiSamba, Covent Garden

When SushiSamba launched in London in 2012, it caused a stir at the top of Heron Tower in the City. The entire experience is powerful, from zooming up 39 storeys in an exterior glass lift to one of Europe’s highest outdoor decks to choosing small foods from a menu with influences from Brazil, Peru, and Japan.

There are currently four locations—three in Covent Garden, one each in Las Vegas and Amsterdam—and a fourth is soon to open in Dubai. Sushi lovers will appreciate the traditional nigiri and sashimi options available, as well as the funnier Samba rolls, which can have shrimp tempura paired with quinoa, Padrón chiles, cilantro, and spicy mayo.

WEBSITE

ADDRESS: SushiSamba, Heron Tower, London EC2N 4AY

OPENING HOURS:12PM-10PM

Steak and Lobster is a small chain of upscale dining establishments in the UK. The Heathrow location is particularly well-known for its superb rib-eye steaks and luscious whole lobsters, which are a bit more expensive.

They also offer a wide variety of bottled beers, including craft beers from microbreweries throughout the country, as well as an extensive cocktail menu. This trendy eatery near Heathrow is one of the most exciting and fashionable places to dine.

11. The Fuji Grill, Beaverbrook Town House, Chelsea

In the back of this busy restaurant, you’ll discover what you are looking for a spotless mint-green Omakase sushi bar with glass cases for moss and traditional Japanese tableware.

Indulge in a 20-course meal that features a variety of fish dishes, each expertly prepared right in front of you using traditional methods to ensure the freshness of the catch. Some of the standout dishes include the smoky and fresh six-day aged O-toro with black truffles and the melt-in-your-mouth Tuna Kakuni in ginger soy. After your meal, relax on Frank’s Bar’s comfortable coral velvet couches and try the Kinky Boots, a champagne drink served in an incredibly tall flute with a scoop of passion fruit sorbet – it comes highly recommended!

WEBSITE

ADDRESS:115-116, Beaverbrook Town House, Sloane St, London SW16 9PJ, United Kingdom

OPENING HOURS:07:30am to 10:30pm

12. Sushi Cafe

Bing from Boston, United States, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Sushi Cafe is an authentic Japanese sushi restaurant located on Battersea Park Road. They offer a wide variety of sushi and sashimi that are both delicious and fresh. One of the unique features of the cafe is its all-you-can-eat sushi option, which is available in three rounds, allowing you to try as many different types of sushi as you like. You can choose from a variety of sets on the menu or order individual items, all of which are inspired by Izakaya cuisine. Sushi Cafe is definitely a must-visit for any sushi lover!

If you are a fan of Japanese cuisine, you will love this all-you-can-eat buffet that offers 50 different authentic Japanese food options. You get to enjoy mouthwatering delicacies, including fancy sushi, for an hour and a half. Additionally, they serve fantastic Japanese wines and beers. 

WEBSITE

ADDRESS: 555 Battersea Park Rd, London SW11 3BT, United Kingdom

OPENING HOURS:12PM-10:30 PM

13. Ai Sushi

Ai Sushi, located in Finchley, was one of the first Japanese restaurants to open in the area. The restaurant offers an affordable all-you-can-eat sushi experience in London. The sushi is made with premium, fresh fish and perfectly cooked rice.

Ai Sushi ensures that only the highest quality ingredients are used for its dishes, ensuring a flavorful and appealing dining experience. If you’re in the mood for a Japanese buffet, head over to Ai Sushi and indulge in their delectable offerings that will surely satisfy your appetite.

WEBSITE

ADDRESS:12pm-830 High Rd, London N12 9RA, United Kingdom

OPening hours: 12pm-10:30pm

14. Sushi Salsa Restaurant

Jppm30, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Have you ever had all-you-can-eat sushi in a chic, contemporary dining area of a Japanese restaurant in London with a tranquil, soothing ambience? Given that the Sushi Salsa Restaurant is among the best Japanese eateries in London and provides a large selection of sushi in a chic and friendly dining area, here are some suggestions.

And don’t worry, you can always ask for assistance from the staff if you find yourself overwhelmed by the wide variety of sushi they provide. They assist you in making the right choice and are welcoming and friendly. They also have a terrace by the water where you can eat while taking in the breathtaking view, which is a bonus.

Website

Address: 3A, Camden Wharf, Jamestown Rd, London NW1 7HW, United Kingdom

Opening hours:12pm-10:30pm

15. Shimai Sushi

Sushi Shimai is a traditional Japanese restaurant in London that ranks among the best all-you-can-eat sushi restaurants thanks to its extensive selection of authentic and traditional menus that the locals adore. This neighbourhood eatery is a newer establishment. Despite this, it has already managed to establish itself as a favourite restaurant among sushi fans because of its vast buffet menu and fresh, genuine flavour.

This place is the best choice if you want to sample some authentic Japanese sushi at a reasonable cost. If you are unfamiliar with sushi, don’t worry; the staff is kind and attentive, and you can always ask for assistance in making a choice that best matches your palate.

WEBSITE

ADDRESS: 4 Milkwood Rd, London SE24 0HH, U

OPENING HOURS:12PM-11 PM

10 of London’s Groundbreaking Sushi Chefs

1. Takahashi Horu

Takahashi Horu is a culinary virtuoso known for his precise knife skills and unwavering dedication to seasonal, sustainable ingredients. Takahashi, the culinary maestro at Sushi Tetsu, a Michelin-starred restaurant, creates an unforgettable omakase experience. His artistry extends beyond traditional Edomae sushi, elevating each dish with a perfect balance of precision and creativity.

Takahashi’s commitment to sourcing the highest quality ingredients ensures a dining experience that captures the essence of each season. Patrons of Sushi Tetsu are treated to an extraordinary culinary journey, demonstrating Takahashi’s mastery and dedication to the art of sushi.

2. Yutaka Saito

Yutaka Saito, who owns the Yutaka restaurant, is a sushi artist par excellence. Chef Saito is revered among sushi purists for his unwavering dedication to the preservation of traditional Edomae-style sushi.

Within the confines of Yutaka, he creates an authentic dining experience by meticulously crafting each piece with the freshest cuts of fish and adhering to strict curing and preparation techniques.

Saito’s mastery goes beyond culinary execution; it embodies a deep respect for Edomae sushi’s heritage, inviting customers to savor the essence of time-honored flavors in every sublime bite at his revered restaurant.

3. Kimiko Hiyashi

Photo by Ivan Samkov from Pexels

This Michelin-starred chef pioneers a distinct fusion of Japanese culinary finesse and local British flavors at her eponymous Kimiko restaurant. Hiyashi is renowned for her innovative sushi approach, which seamlessly integrates seasonal and sustainable British ingredients with the finest Japanese seafood to create a harmonious gastronomic symphony.

Each meticulously crafted dish exemplifies her dedication to culinary excellence and environmental responsibility. Hiyashi’s visionary cuisine has received widespread acclaim, establishing her as a culinary trailblazer. Kimiko takes patrons on a culinary journey that crosses cultural boundaries, celebrating the marriage of traditional Japanese techniques with the vibrant bounty of local British produce.

4. Jun Tanaka

Jun Tanaka’s acclaimed restaurant JNcQ offers a one-of-a-kind dining experience. Renowned for its exclusivity, the restaurant serves an intimate omakase tasting menu curated by Chef Tanaka himself. Tanaka showcases his extraordinary skills and limitless creativity in this culinary haven, creating a one-of-a-kind and unforgettable meal.

Tanaka’s culinary prowess and commitment to pushing the boundaries of traditional sushi are evident in each dish, which is a masterpiece. The omakase experience at JNcQ transforms into a personalized and immersive exploration of flavors, textures, and artistic presentation, leaving diners with a lasting impression of Tanaka’s distinct culinary vision.

5. Shuhei James Otsuka

Photo by cottonbro studio from Pexels

Shuhei James Otsuka, the culinary visionary behind Sushi Yasuda, creates a distinct dining experience by combining tradition and modernity. Otsuka, known for his commitment to high-quality ingredients, creates a relaxed and casual atmosphere at Sushi Yasuda, inviting customers to savor sushi in an unpretentious setting.

His culinary prowess is evident in a menu that seamlessly combines traditional techniques with contemporary flair. At Sushi Yasuda, Otsuka’s creative nigiri and innovative maki rolls reshape the sushi landscape, demonstrating his ability to infuse artistry into each dish while maintaining a commitment to flavor and presentation excellence.

6. Chisato Hama

Chisato Hama, the pioneering head chef at Chisato, is making waves in the traditionally male-dominated world of sushi chefs. Breaking barriers with flair, she captivates customers with an innovative and playful approach to sushi, redefining culinary expectations. Her expert craftsmanship, combined with a keen understanding of flavor dynamics, has earned her a devoted following and critical acclaim.

Hama’s dedication to pushing boundaries while respecting traditional techniques results in a dynamic dining experience that highlights her distinct viewpoint. As a trailblazer, she ushers in a new era of sushi in which creativity and expertise combine to challenge and delight the palate.

7. Hiroo Kobayashi

Photo by Ivan Samkov from Pexels

Hiroo Kobayashi, the culinary virtuoso behind Kakure creates a culinary haven where the omakase experience goes beyond the ordinary. Chef Kobayashi, renowned for his extensive knowledge of seafood, takes diners on an extraordinary journey at Kakure, highlighting lesser-known cuts of fish with traditional preparations.

His dedication to preserving Japanese sushi traditions is reflected in each meticulous creation. Kobayashi’s artistry creates a symphony of flavors, striking a perfect balance between the exquisite and the authentic. Patrons at Kakure are immersed in a world where culinary expertise meets a passion for preserving Japan’s rich sushi heritage, resulting in a truly unique and unforgettable dining experience.

8. Daisuke Hayashi

Chef Hayashi, known for his expert use of seasonal ingredients, creates an unparalleled sushi experience that exceeds expectations. The unassuming setting belies the culinary treasure trove within, as customers discover the artistry of traditional Japanese flavors infused with Hayashi’s unique creative touch.

Aside from his culinary expertise, Hayashi’s warm and welcoming personality adds an extra layer of charm to the dining experience. Diners at Sushi 123 are taken on a journey guided by Chef Daisuke Hayashi’s passion and hospitality, rather than just being served a meal.

9. Mitsunori Mori

Mitsunori Mori, the highly regarded head chef at Moshi Moshi Sushi, brings the essence of authentic Japanese sushi to the heart of London. Mori, renowned for his culinary skills creates a memorable dining experience using the freshest seasonal ingredients and traditional techniques.

Patrons at Moshi Moshi Sushi embark on a culturally diverse gastronomic journey, with each dish reflecting Mori’s commitment to preserving the authenticity of Japanese culinary traditions. Chef Mitsunori Mori elevates sushi to a sublime art form, inviting diners to experience the true essence of Japanese cuisine in the vibrant atmosphere of London.

10. Naomichi Yasuda

Photo by Airam Dato-on from Pexels

Naomichi Yasuda, the culinary luminary behind Yasuda Sushi & Ramen, has established himself as a master caterer to both sushi and ramen enthusiasts. Chef Yasuda elevates the dining experience at his eponymous restaurant by focusing on high-quality ingredients and creating a harmonious fusion of flavors in each dish.

Beyond his culinary skills, he is committed to creating a welcoming environment for his guests. Yasuda Sushi & Ramen transforms into a sanctuary where guests can enjoy the best sushi and ramen while basking in Chef Naomichi Yasuda’s carefully curated ambiance.

London has become a global destination for exceptional sushi, thanks to chefs’ innovation and artistry in combining traditional techniques with modern creative flair. These ten chefs set the standard for showcasing the limitless possibilities of sushi with their diverse styles, influences, high-quality ingredients, and unwavering commitment to their craft. Their restaurants provide sushi lovers with unforgettable culinary experiences that continue to shape London’s vibrant dining scene.