The best Japanese restaurants in Covent Garden

Sushisamba is one of London's most prestigious dining establishments, with one restaurant in Covent Garden and another in Liverpool Street. The Covent Garden branch is perched atop the Opera Terrace of the historic Grade II-listed Market Building, offering stunning rooftop views over the piazza. The restaurant is decked out with a striking glass roof, designed by Eric Parry, that spans the entire eastern side of the market. The menu combines Japanese, Brazilian, and Peruvian styles, creating a unique fusion dining experience that is beautifully presented.

There are few places that can serve up a bowl of ramen quite like Shoryu. Their rich, creamy Japanese soup boasts a 12-hour pork broth topped with ingredients like tender char siu barbecue pork belly. They also offer a tasty vegan option with a hearty mushroom broth, alongside a selection of other delicious Japanese side dishes.

Flesh & Buns' original Covent Garden branch is a trendy izakaya-style bar and restaurant, now with a couple of venues across London. It specialises in small, shareable plates and offers Asian favourites like maki rolls, fried wings, rice bowls, and its signature steamed buns filled with various meaty options. The menu also includes omakase experiences, tasting menus, Sunday brunch, and an extensive sake selection.

Gilgamesh London was once the city's largest restaurant but relocated to a more intimate space. Although it may have lost some space, it still boasts an impressive setting. The venue features a lounge bar, a garden-inspired mezzanine, and a cosy lower-level dining area enhanced by dim lighting, striking gold walls, and bold seating patterns. The menu is inspired by the "Epic of Gilgamesh" and offers premium Pan-Asian dishes from across the Asian continent.

Benihana in Covent Garden was opened by chef Rocky Aoki, who opened its doors in 1964 and was known for introducing the West to sushi and teppanyaki. Chefs work their magic and prepare intricate Japanese teppanyaki dishes right at your table while you sit on chairs overlooking the grill. Benihana is perfect for those looking to enjoy a meal that's as much about the performance as it is the food.