Where Do London Locals Go for Japanese Inspired Tapas?

Why Are Londoners Falling for Japanese Inspired Tapas Right Now?

Londoners are falling in love with Japanese inspired tapas because it blends sociable dining with bold flavours in relaxed surroundings. Rooted in izakaya traditions, the small plate format allows groups to share everything from grilled skewers to sake in spaces that feel intimate and welcoming. It’s flavour forward dining made for casual get togethers and lively conversation. Whether you’re into small Japanese plates, fusion menus or classic izakaya food, the experience caters to every mood.

Explore our Japanese fusion menu in Mayfair

Where to Try the Best Japanese Inspired Tapas in London

Titu (Mayfair) A Must Try Japanese Fusion Experience

Titu is one of London’s most exciting Japanese fusion restaurants and a top choice for anyone craving bold flavour and creative flair. Located in the heart of Mayfair at 1A Shepherd Street, Titu combines cosy elegance with a playful, inventive menu set against a refined Japanese interior. Signature dishes like spicy wagyu steak, miso aubergine and shiitake bao showcase the best of fusion cuisine, while the cocktail list featuring house infusions and seasonal specials adds a spirited twist. With halal options and a welcoming vibe, Titu is often called the best Japanese restaurant in Mayfair for groups, dates or anyone who simply loves great food.

Their Japanese restaurant menu in Mayfair includes everything from wagyu beef and prawn gyoza to vegan friendly options like truffle chips, tofu skewers and green Japanese forest dessert. Whether you’re seeking halal Japanese food in Mayfair or something bold and modern, Titu delivers an unforgettable dining experience.

Himi (Soho)

The grilled trout and bluefin tuna sashimi speak for themselves. Himi has the soft lighting and casual charm that makes it feel like a Tokyo local’s secret. It’s one of the most authentic izakaya London spots around.

Chisou (Mayfair)

This Mayfair favourite offers a thoughtful izakaya menu and wooden interiors that set the tone for relaxed dining. It’s a spot where everything feels in balance food, setting and pace.

What Locals Love Most

Titu’s setting blends sophistication with comfort, which makes it popular not just for first time diners, but with locals who treat it as their go to for small Japanese plates and fusion flavours. The menu is built around group sharing with standout dishes like wagyu tacos, foie gras gyoza and miso lamb chops—all crafted to pair well with sake or signature cocktails. The vibe is upscale but friendly, making it a local staple.

The menus across these venues are easy to navigate, the food is made for sharing and the vibe is always relaxed. Whether catching up with friends or heading out spontaneously, these places deliver meals that feel just right. For many, they’re the go to when craving cozy Japanese restaurant London experiences without the fuss.

What Makes It "Tapas" in Spirit?

Shared Plates, Late Nights and Creative Bites

This style of dining brings together late night energy and a love of variety. Sashimi paired with skewered aubergine or pickled daikon next to smoky yakitori is common. These are dishes made for conversation offering just enough to savour, share and talk about. It’s relaxed, sociable and just adventurous enough to keep things interesting. Japanese style bar food is about more than taste, it’s about the rhythm of eating together.

How London Sets the Stage

Venues from Soho to Stoke Newington are putting their own spin on the izakaya concept. Some are sleek with open kitchens, others feel like tucked away hangouts with loyal regulars. What ties them together is their commitment to quality and atmosphere offering bold flavours without the formality. These Japanese tapas restaurants represent the rise of Japanese comfort food London diners are increasingly choosing for weekday meals and weekend outings.

Creative Japanese Tapas Spots Blending Flavours and Cultures

Bold Fusion Kitchens to Try

Moi (Soho): Duck dumplings and crab temaki are just the start. Moi has the sort of energy that makes it feel like a celebration every time you visit.

Osteria Angelina: Where Japanese meets Italian, the results are impressive. Miso tempura and sesame dressed seafood bring out new dimensions in familiar dishes.

Global Meets Local in Every Bite

Fusion isn’t about complexity, it’s about curiosity. At these venues, Japanese staples meet ingredients like truffle and pasta without losing their identity. The result is food that’s satisfying and memorable. These chef driven menus highlight the fun of small plate fusion without losing authenticity.

Affordable Japanese Tapas with a Homestyle Feel

Go To Local Favourites

Titu (Mayfair): While many view Titu as an upscale spot, its flexibility in pricing and walk in friendly service has earned it a spot among local favourites. The a la carte options mean you can go light with a couple of gyoza and a drink or enjoy a full course experience with scallops, skewers, and signature desserts. It’s a rare find in Mayfair that feels just as right for a casual dinner as it does for a special celebration.

Abeno: Known for okonomiyaki with crispy edges and full flavour, Abeno brings a slice of Osaka’s streets to central London.

Tokyo Diner: Simple and satisfying. Katsudon and miso soup come quickly, taste great and leave you wanting to return.

Dotori (Finsbury Park): This hybrid of Korean and Japanese comfort food delivers generous plates and friendly service without the hefty bill.

Why These Spots Matter

They’re not flashy but they’re reliable. These are places that offer value, choice and the kind of atmosphere that makes you feel like a regular. If you’re hunting for the best value izakaya or cozy Japanese food London locals rely on, these are worth a visit.

Quick Picks: Japanese Tapas by Mood, Craving or Crowd

By Occasion

Date Night: Choose Titu or Moi for fusion flavour in a stylish, softly lit setting. Whether you go for wagyu tacos or a shared dessert platter, the mood is always right.

After Work: Himi or Chisou are ideal for low key evenings with great sake and good company. Their sake pairing menus are particularly popular.

Group Hang: Titu is built for small group fun. The menu is designed to be ordered in rounds with something for every diet including halal meat, vegan friendly dishes and gluten free plates.

Solo Bites: Temaki and Tokyo Diner make solo dining feel effortless.

Quick Recap of Must Trys

For standout dishes, don’t miss the wagyu tacos, truffle fried scallops, or mochi balls at Titu. Other favourites include grilled trout at Himi, okonomiyaki at Abeno and miso tempura at Osteria Angelina. Whether you're after Japanese tapas restaurants or simply want a great meal with friends, this trend proves Londoners are embracing small Japanese plates with big flavour.