The heavily-anticipated new venture by the Michelin-starred chef has been in the works for some time – it was one of the first dining-related announcements by the Raffles London at The OWO hotel, which has been open since autumn. With the official launch of the restaurant coming up in spring, Endo Kazutoshi has finally revealed some key details, including the restaurant's name.
Endo Kazutoshi is a third-generation sushi master whose current London restaurant, Endo at the Rotunda, holds one Michelin star. Born and raised in Yokohama, Kazutoshi later worked and travelled in Spain, and his cuisine reflects both his Japanese heritage and Mediterranean influences. Named after the Japanese word for “memory”, his new restaurant Kioku by Endo will, in the chef's own words, bring together all the important memories of his life so far, both personal and professional.
Kioku by Endo is located on the rooftop of the Old War Office building and boasts panoramic views of Central London. In addition to the main dining area and the outdoor terrace, the restaurant features an eight-seat chef's table serving Kazutoshi's signature omakase, as well as a private dining room in one of the OWO's turrets, ensuring 360-degrees of the city.
Before you head up to the roof to enjoy Kazutoshi's exquisite sushi creations, you'll be able to stop in the ground-floor Kioku Bar to try sake from one of the largest bespoke sake collections around. While you sip your drink, you'll be able to pick tracks to add to the guest-curated playlist – a feature inspired by Japanese listening bars.
Kioku by Endo launches this spring, with the exact date still to be determined.