Stepping into Novikov’s Asian Restaurant feels like entering a world where luxury dining meets the colour and vibrancy of an Asian street market. The centrepiece is its striking open kitchen, framed by a theatrical display of seafood, vegetables and gleaming ice. It’s an immediate signal of Novikov’s commitment to fresh, bold ingredients and its ability to combine high-end polish with authentic, market-inspired energy.
The menu takes a modern approach to Chinese and pan-Asian flavours, balancing refined presentation with expressive use of texture and spice. We began with light, flavour-forward appetisers: smoky Padron Peppers and soft Chicken Tacos, followed by crisp, delicate Spicy Prawn Money Bags from the dim sum selection, each parcel breaking open into a warm, aromatic filling.
Novikov’s sushi counter is one of its greatest strengths, and the chef’s curated selection offered an excellent snapshot of the kitchen’s precision. Highlights included buttery Yellowtail Nigiri, Salmon Avocado rolls with a creamy, clean finish, and beautifully Seared Salmon that delivered a touch of smoky depth. An assorted maki selection rounded out the experience beautifully.
As the dishes arrived, we sipped on a Strawberry Mojito, light and refreshing with just the right hint of sweetness, the ideal companion to the bright flavours on the table. Midway through the meal, the standout drink proved to be the Novikola, a vibrant mocktail blending pomegranate and berry syrup with lemon mix and Coca-Cola Zero. Crisp, fruity and unexpectedly sophisticated, it brought a lively, playful contrast to the savoury dishes.
For mains, the Salmon Teriyaki – lacquered in a glossy sweet-savoury glaze, was a clear favourite, while the Wagyu Sirloin delivered indulgence with every melt-in-the-mouth slice. Sides of tenderstem broccoli and a rich King Crab rice hot pot added depth and comfort, rounding the meal into something both luxurious and deeply satisfying.
Dessert arrived in the form of airy hazelnut profiteroles, filled with a smooth, nutty cream and paired with a refreshing sorbet. A pot of fresh mint tea provided a gentle, aromatic finish before the evening moved into its second act.
Downstairs at the Lounge Bar, Novikov offers a completely different, but equally compelling atmosphere. On Tuesday nights, the space shifts into an intimate jazz haven, with live musicians delivering a blend of soulful vocals, blues-infused melodies and warm instrumentals. The candlelit room hums with energy, creating a setting that feels both refined and cool.
Guests can choose to elevate the night with a curated late-evening experience: crafted cocktails and small bites designed to complement the music and extend the evening long after dinner ends. It’s the perfect way to round off a night in Mayfair, reminding you that Novikov isn’t just a restaurant, it’s an experience that seamlessly combines dining, ambience and entertainment.
With its theatrical kitchen, inventive menu and atmospheric jazz lounge, Novikov delivers a multifaceted night out that feels distinctly London yet rooted in global flavour. For those seeking a dining experience that stretches beyond the table, it remains one of Mayfair’s most compelling destinations.
50A Berkeley St, London W1J 8HA
