The most expensive restaurant in the UK is based in a five-star hotel and it has only 13 seats at the counter and while it does not come cheap, the food itself has been heavily praised
Sushi Kanesaka is regarded as the most expensive restaurant in the UK
People who have been lucky enough to visit the UK’s most expensive restaurant have shared what it’s really like.
Sushi Kanesaka, based within 45 Park Lane hotel in Mayfair, London, boasts just 13 spots at the sushi bar and every dish can be polished off in a single mouthful.
The omakase (which translates to “I leave it up to you” in Japanese) eatery launched only in 2023 and charges an eye-watering £420 per person for its set menu.
Yet according to all reports, the sushi on offer – which bagged a Michelin star mere months after launching – is absolutely exquisite.
The Food Guide’s specialist reviewer declared it “undoubtedly the best quality sushi experience available in the UK right now”.
Diners with bookings are welcomed by a kimono-clad server who escorts them to the sushi bar where they observe head chef Hirotaka Wada crafting their meal before their eyes.
Sushi Kanesaka only seats 13 customers(Image: SUSHI KANESAKA)
The mastermind behind the establishment is Shinji Kanesaka, who established a London outpost following the triumph of his Tokyo venue bearing the identical name.
The restaurant boasts an impressive 4.7-star Google review average, with one diner capturing his visit in a single word – ethereal.
Following his trip last month, he raved: “The most amazing sushi I’ve ever had outside Japan. Awesome food, service and atmosphere. Only 13 sushi bar seats in entire restaurant, 9 in main and a more private 4 seater. Pricey but ethereal.”
Another diner who awarded it five stars commented: “Had the omakase at Sushi Kanesaka and really enjoyed the experience. The ingredients were clearly top quality, and the preparation was precise without being overly showy. Service was attentive and the atmosphere felt calm and refined. A solid choice for high-end sushi in London.”
Shinji Kanesaka is the man behind Sushi Kanesaka in London (Image: Instagram/sushikanesakalondon)
Regarding the price point, one guest remarked: “Yes it is expensive, however the experience is extremely intimate with only a few small sittings each night. Further to this the ingredients used are absolutely the best on offer.
“I have honestly never been served a blue lobster and the Kobe beef was certainly as good as the best wagu I have previously tried in Japan. The whole team was extremely professional and very attentive. The Sake pairing was again exceptional with the sommelier describing each in amazing detail.”
The Kobe beef proved popular with additional reviewers, with one patron noting: “First omakase in London..great dining experience with super friendly chef stuff. Absolutely love the Kobe beef and lobster cream croquette!”.
Waitresses dress in kimonos (Image: Instagram/sushikanesakalondon)
At Sushi Kanesaka, the 18 dishes, which vary according to the season, are presented over two hours.
The mastermind behind the venture, Shinji Kanesaka, rarely discusses his culinary expertise, but earlier this year he spoke to Luxury London about the premium dining experience at his London establishment. When asked about his favourite dish on the menu, he revealed it was the Tuna akami.
When questioned about the experience of running a Michelin star restaurant, he responded: “There is a certain pressure in maintaining the star.
“It is important to be grateful, not to shame those who valued us, and not to disappoint the guests who visit us.”