The izakaya is the beating heart of Japanese food culture. Part pub, part restaurant, part social ritual, it is the place where colleagues decompress after work, friends catch up over shared plates, and strangers bond over sake. The word itself tells the story: "i" means to stay, and "sakaya" means sake shop. An izakaya is somewhere you are meant to linger.
London's izakaya scene has matured beautifully. The city now offers everything from polished, design-led spaces in the West End to scrappy neighbourhood spots in Hackney and Finchley that feel genuinely transported from a Tokyo backstreet. What unites them is the format: small dishes designed for sharing, drinks that flow freely, and an atmosphere that encourages you to order just one more plate, stay for just one more round.
The range of experiences is wide. Dinings SW3 in Chelsea brings serious culinary technique to the tapas format, with dishes like yellowtail sashimi with truffle that feel like fine dining served casually. Flesh & Buns in Covent Garden is the opposite end of the spectrum: loud, underground, and absolutely packed on a Friday night, with pillowy bao buns and robata-grilled meats. In between, you will find Tenshi in Angel, where sitting at the counter and letting the staff guide you through the sake list feels like discovering a secret Tokyo bar, and Uchi in Clapton, where removing your shoes at the door signals that something different is about to happen.
The best izakaya are not about any single dish. They are about the cumulative effect of many small things done well: the crunch of perfectly fried gyoza, the warmth of a sake flight, the surprise of a seasonal special you did not expect. These 12 are the best places in London to experience that feeling.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an izakaya?
An izakaya is a Japanese-style informal pub or tavern where people gather to drink and eat small shared plates. The word combines "i" (to stay) and "sakaya" (sake shop), reflecting its origins as a place where people would linger over drinks. In London, izakayas range from lively underground bars to intimate neighbourhood spots.
What is the best izakaya in London?
Dinings SW3 in Chelsea is widely regarded as one of London's finest for modern Japanese tapas with serious technique. For a more traditional atmosphere, Tenshi in Angel captures the spirit of a real Tokyo neighbourhood izakaya. Flesh & Buns in Covent Garden is the go-to for groups.
Are izakayas good for groups?
Absolutely. Izakayas are designed for sharing and socialising. Flesh & Buns, Apothecary East, KIBOU, and Sakagura are all excellent for groups. The small-plates format means everyone can try different dishes, and the casual atmosphere encourages lingering.
Where can I find good sake in London?
Sakagura on Heddon Street has one of the largest sake collections in London across two floors. Tenshi in Angel offers guided sake flights at its counter. Apothecary East in Shoreditch combines sake with curated cocktails. Most izakayas on this list have a curated sake selection.
Do I need to book an izakaya in London?
Higher-end spots like Dinings SW3 and Sakagura are best booked in advance, especially for dinner and weekends. Walk-in friendly options include Tenshi, Machiya, Uchi, and Nippon Izakaya. Flesh & Buns accepts bookings but also takes walk-ins if there is space.
What should I order at an izakaya?
Start with edamame or a light appetiser, then explore grilled skewers, tempura, sashimi, and gyoza. Most izakayas are designed for sharing, so order a spread of different dishes for the table. Pair everything with sake, Japanese beer, or a highball whisky soda.