London has no shortage of Japanese restaurants, but finding somewhere that combines Japanese culinary traditions, thoughtful cooking and a genuine appreciation for seasonal ingredients is something rather special.
From traditional sushi counters and ramen bars to contemporary Japanese dining rooms, Central London offers an exciting variety of Japanese food. Yet one of the things that makes Japanese cuisine so distinctive is its relationship with the seasons. Rather than simply changing a menu for the sake of variety, Japanese cooking has a long-standing appreciation of shun – the idea of enjoying ingredients at the very best point in their season.
It's an approach that sits at the heart of what we do at HIMI.
Japanese Cooking with a Seasonal Perspective
In Japan, seasonality is more than a culinary trend. It is deeply embedded in the food culture, influencing everything from the ingredients selected to the way dishes are prepared and presented.
At HIMI, we take inspiration from this philosophy, bringing together Japanese cooking techniques and the flavours of British and European seasonal produce. Our approach is rooted in the spirit of a traditional Japanese izakaya, but interpreted through a contemporary lens.
The result is a menu that evolves throughout the year, making the most of ingredients when they are at their best.
A Different Take on Japanese Dining in Soho
Located on Newburgh Street, just moments from Carnaby Street, HIMI offers something a little different from the traditional Japanese restaurant experience.
Our Neo-Izakaya concept takes inspiration from the relaxed atmosphere of Japanese neighbourhood dining, where good food, interesting drinks and sharing dishes with friends are all part of the experience.
Rather than focusing on one particular style of Japanese cuisine, our kitchen explores a broader range of techniques and influences. Grilling, fermentation, carefully prepared seafood and seasonal vegetables all have their place on the menu.
It's Japanese dining that feels familiar in its inspiration but exciting in its execution.
Celebrating the Best of Each Season
One of the pleasures of dining somewhere that takes seasonality seriously is having something new to discover each time you visit.
As autumn arrives, the kitchen turns towards richer ingredients and deeper flavours. Game, root vegetables and earthy seasonal produce provide plenty of inspiration.
One of our current highlights is Shika Kunko-yaki, featuring grilled fallow deer loin served with parsnips and salsify. It's a dish that brings together the richness of British game with the depth and balance of Japanese-inspired cooking.
Alongside our regular menu, seasonal specials allow the kitchen to explore new combinations and make the most of the ingredients available throughout the year.
More Than Just the Food: Japanese Drinks and Sake
A great Japanese dining experience wouldn't be complete without something interesting in your glass.
At HIMI, our drinks selection includes Japanese-inspired cocktails, carefully chosen wines and an evolving selection of sake.
Our seasonal Satsuma Spritzer, combining pét-nat wine, mikan liqueur and ginger, is a lovely example of how we approach drinks, bringing together Japanese ingredients and contemporary flavours.
We also regularly introduce new-season sake, offering guests the opportunity to discover different styles and explore how they work alongside the changing menu.
Finding Your Next Japanese Restaurant in Soho
Whether you're looking for somewhere to enjoy a relaxed lunch, an evening of sharing plates or a pre-theatre dinner in Central London, Soho remains one of London's most exciting neighbourhoods for dining.
For those who enjoy Japanese food but are looking to explore beyond the familiar, HIMI offers a different perspective. Our focus on seasonal British and European ingredients, Japanese culinary traditions and the informal spirit of izakaya dining creates an experience that changes throughout the year.
You'll find us at 4 Newburgh Street, just off Carnaby Street, in the heart of Soho.
We look forward to welcoming you.
