Who knew that one of London’s swankiest neighbourhoods, a postcode known for being a little flashy, could house one of the most elegant Japanese restaurants in town? Zuma, literally hidden away in a mews just off the main stretch of Knightsbridge, is a lovely surprise, and a great night out to boot. The restaurant specialises in informal izakaya dining – dishes to be shared that include tempura and skewers, alongside salads, sushi and snacks – and also offers some very fine drinking options, highlighted by the brand new cocktail menu.
Zuma London Interior
The space itself is fantastically impressive – super airy and atmospheric – grounded by a central bar, where we chose to sit during our visit. We started the evening with champagne before turning to some great Asian beer. Try the Coedo Beniaka, a deliciously malty offering and not easily found in London. If you’re a cocktail drinker, make sure to view the excellent options that have recently been introduced. The section of Nomikai Cocktails refer to the Japanese culture of drinking with colleagues after work (nomikai literally means “gathering to drink”.)
The Riku sidecar mixes cognac, cointreau and plum sake with yamamomo plum and nutmeg, for a powerful, fruity kick. Meanwhile, if you would rather have a Kurashikku (classic) cocktail, the Tokyo punk punch is a must. Gin and yuzu sake is combined with raspberries and black tapioca, resulting in a truly unique beverage. Obviously, or rather, thankfully, there are also some wonderful sake options available – over 40 different varieties. So wiling away the night at the bar would most definitely be a rewarding choice.
Zuma cocktail
Zuma’s cooking, though, is equally enticing and offers a varied range of sophisticated flavours. Fried tofu with avocado was a gentle appetizer accompanied by some zingy fried squid with green chilli. The grilled Chilean sea bass with a tangy ginger dressing was a particular highlight, showing off the kitchen’s wonderfully sophisticated produce. For something extravagant, choose the king crab with ponzu lime butter. Even dessert proposes some bold and alluring flavours. The pecan pie with kokuto (brown sugar) caramel sundae is a knock-out number, whilst the exotic fruit platter with pink guava sorbet is a beautifully refreshing plate.
After your next retail trip to Harrods, make sure to visit this hidden Japanese gem in the heart of West London.
by Derby Jones
Zuma, 5 Raphael St, Knightsbridge, London SW7 1DL
Tel: +44 207 584 1010
Follow Zuma on Instagram