The best Japanese restaurants in Covent Garden

Gilgamesh London was once the city's largest restaurant but relocated to a more intimate space in Covent Garden. There's a modern lounge bar as well as a garden-inspired mezzanine and a cosy lower-level dining area with dim lighting, bold gold walls, and funky seating patterns. The menu is inspired by the "Epic of Gilgamesh" and features dishes from across the Asian continent, including sushi, robata-grilled skewers, and other Japanese delicacies.

Sushisamba in Covent Garden is located on top of the iconic Opera Terrace of the historic Grade II-listed Market Building, where it boasts epic rooftop views over the area's iconic 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.

Few places can serve up a bowl of ramen quite like Shoryu, a legendary London ramen spot. Their rich, creamy Japanese ramen is made with a rich 12-hour pork broth before being topped with things like tender char siu barbecue pork belly – although there are lots of options on the menu. If you're vegan, they serve a hearty mushroom broth alongside a selection of other delicious Japanese side dishes.

Flesh & Buns is Covent Garden is their first ever branch, and is a trendy izakaya-style bar and restaurant, now with a couple of venues all around London. Small, shareable plates are the name of the game here, including favourites like maki rolls, fried wings, rice bowls, and Flesh and Buns' signature-filled steamed buns. The menu also includes omakase experiences, tasting menus, Sunday brunch, and a big sake selection.

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.