Tucked away in the heart of West London, Ukai offers a dining experience that is both refined and full of character. This Notting Hill favourite blends Japanese craftsmanship with global influences, creating an atmosphere that feels sophisticated yet effortlessly cool. With its dim lighting, textured interiors, and relaxed buzz, Ukai perfectly captures the modern London balance between fine dining and laid-back style.
The meal began with a comforting bowl of miso soup, followed by tender baby squid, beautifully cooked and delicately seasoned. The sushi course showcased Ukai’s precision and flair, from silky slices of sashimi to a fresh salmon and avocado roll. The undeniable highlight, though, was the sea bass with truffle roll: rich, aromatic, and layered with flavour, indulgent without ever feeling heavy.
For the mains, the robata grill truly shone. The sizzling beef toban arrived with theatre and aroma, the meat tender and perfectly cooked. The roasted black cod was another standout, sweet, buttery, and infused with subtle notes of miso and caramelisation. Each dish felt carefully composed, balancing refinement with approachability.
The drinks list was equally impressive, merging Japanese ingredients with creative European twists. The Mochi cocktail was an instant favourite, smooth, delicately sweet, and beautifully balanced, while the Kyoto-style Mojito offered a refreshing reinvention of a classic, bright with citrus and herbal depth. Both drinks demonstrated the same precision and inventiveness found in the food.
Under the direction of Head Chef Alessandro Verros, Ukai’s menu feels both elegant and inviting. His fine-dining background shows in every detail, from the precise plating to the harmony of flavours. Yet nothing about the experience feels overly formal; it is a restaurant that celebrates quality without pretence.
Ukai often hosts evenings with live music, adding to its lively yet elegant atmosphere. It’s easy to see why it has become a go-to spot for both dinner and late-night drinks.
For those seeking a night that balances culinary artistry with a relaxed, contemporary energy, Ukai delivers on all fronts. Whether you are there for a quiet dinner, a special celebration, or an evening that lingers into the night, it is a place that stays with you: beautiful, flavourful, and distinctly London.
240 Portobello Road, London
W11 1LL, UK
