Have you been searching for the best wasabi restaurant in London to satisfy your sushi cravings? Some of London’s finest Japanese restaurants serve top-quality seafood with freshly grated wasabi.
Whether you want a cosy sushi bar or a high-end dining experience, we have you covered. This guide shall explore some of the best wasabi restaurants in London, which have numerous options of real wasabi with skilful construction of the rolls and the sashimi. Furthermore, these wasabi bars bring out the best flavours of sushi in London – the conventional as well as the modern alternatives.
Therefore, check out these top picks in the city if you would like to sample the bold flavours of freshly prepared wasabi and experience authentic Japanese dining.
What is Wasabi?
Wasabi is also known as Japanese horseradish and scientifically known as “Wasabia japonica.” Generally, it is a plant native to Japan that belongs to the Brassicaceae family. There is a common misconception that the wasabi’s root is the plant’s root. But it is a rhizome, a fleshy, underground stem between the wasabi’s leaves and roots.
When the rhizome is finely grated, a hot green paste is often associated with sashimi and sushi alongside soy sauce for dipping. Also, it is served with other foods that the added spiciness complements, such as roast beef.
It is a palatable choice for individuals who can’t handle intense spiciness. It is worth noting that the heat from wasabi does not linger like that of chilli peppers.
Exploring the Origin of Wasabi
Mainly, wasabi is grown in the Shizuoka and Shimane prefectures in Japan. Besides, it is derived from the rhizome of the Wasabia japonica plant. Since it only grows where the water level is high, that provides ideal growing conditions for this temperamental plant. So in Japan, people consider wasabi farming areas to have the purest water.
In addition, today wasabi is grown in parts of China, New Zealand, Taiwan, Korea and certain parts of North America.
What is Wasabi Made of?
Most of the time, one of the most common questions is what wasabi is made from. Because they want to know information on its main ingredients or perhaps a recipe on how to make wasabi at home. However, to make wasabi paste, only one ingredient is needed, which is wasabi.
Moreover, Wasabi is traditionally made from the rhizome of the Wasabia japonica plant. To make wasabi paste, one simply grates the rhizome of the plant and it becomes wasabi paste, ready to eat.
Where Can I Find Genuine Wasabi Establishments in London?
The best place to eat real wasabi is at a high-end Japanese restaurant, particularly those that serve high-grade sushi and sashimi. After trying the real stuff, you’ll probably be able to differentiate between the real stuff and the fake.
You’ll also realise it should never overshadow the main ingredient but rather enhance it and create a delicate balance between them.
In the next section, we will provide a list of London’s best wasabi restaurants.
Therefore, join us on a delicious journey through London’s best sushi joints, where wasabi is always freshly grated and the flavours are unparalleled!
Top 10 Best Wasabi Restaurant London In 2024
We’ve compiled a list of London’s top wasabi restaurants, so browse a little and order your next Japanese feast.
Negi & Nori
If you are on the hunt for a first-class authentic wasabi bar in London, you are in luck, as Negi & Nori has established itself as a go-to destination for top-notch Japanese ramen and sushi lovers. In London, it is famous for serving fresh and real wasabi, particularly with its signature sushi rolls and sashimi platters. With a wide range of mouthwatering menus such as sashimi, ramen, futomaki, nigiri and more, this sushi restaurant serves meals that are visually stunning and rich in flavour.
Special Highlights:
- Best ramen and really good sushi with a unique wasabi twist.
- Pure, real wasabi served with all sushi dishes.
- Elegant and modern ambience.
Sushisamba
This is a trendy spot that is famous worldwide for blending Japanese, Peruvian and Brazilian cuisine. Typically, it provides a variety of unique wasabi-infused meals. Therefore, if you try their sushi, sashimi or other items, with the creative use of wasabi, you can enjoy every bite. Besides, they use fine and top-quality ingredients, making their plate stunning.
Special Highlights:
- Wasabi-inspired food.
- Rooftop dining with stunning views of London, UK.
- Fusion cuisine with an emphasis on freshness.
Umu
With two Michelin stars, Umu is one of the best wasabi restaurants in London. This spot is
honouring the traditions and delicate cuisine of Kyoto, also including creative flourishes from
Chef Ryo Kamatsu. Also, their sushi is second to none. In their menu, they use high-grade wasabi. In addition, you can sample these delights as part of a full-fledged Kyoto kaiseki banquet.
Special Highlights:
- Two Michelin stars.
- Kyoto-style Kaiseki cuisine.
- Freshly prepared wasabi at your table.
Roka
To experience true Japanese food wasabi, leave the chaos of Oxford Street and head to ROKA Mayfair. This restaurant is renowned for its robata-style cuisine, sushi, wagyu, and tempura delights, all presented in a timeless style. Those who love wasabi should try this chic, modern restaurant for standard sushi and sashimi.
Special Highlights:
- Known for its freshness and uses real wasabi root.
- Their wasabi-laced robata-grilled meat and vegetables are a treat.
Nobu
It is another top-notch wasabi restaurant in London, United Kingdom, which is known internationally for being the first European venture from renowned Japanese chef Nobu Matsushita. There is no doubt that Nobu is a favourite of celebrities and high-end diners alike. There is nothing like their sushi and sashimi, served with real wasabi, and the overall dining experience.
Special Highlights:
- A fusion restaurant with a reputation for excellence.
- With sushi, you can enjoy real wasabi.
- The decor is elegant and sleek.
Sushi Tetsu
One of London’s most exclusive restaurants, Sushi Tetsu, occupies a particularly prestigious position.
This haven in Clerkenwell has devoted entire features to how to secure a table, where Toru Takahashi, a celebrated Japanese chef, prepares omakase menus while Harumi, his wife, demonstrates a masterclass in hosting.
This small, intimate sushi bar specialises in handcrafted sushi, all prepared with real wasabi and served in an intimate atmosphere.
Special Highlights:
- An experience that is tailored to your needs.
- Freshly grated real wasabi.
- Seasonal, high-grade ingredients.
Zuma
Zuma is a high-end Japanese restaurant that serves both traditional and contemporary Asian cuisine. It also serves some wow-factor modern Japanese food, making it a top spot on nearly every sushi lover’s bucket list. Moreover, it boasts an extensive sake collection and provides a luxurious dining experience, along with freshly grated wasabi.
Special Highlights:
- The best sushi with freshly grated wasabi.
- A sophisticated selection of sake pairings.
- Service of the highest excellence.
Dinings SW3
This Japanese fusion restaurant in Marylebone is impressive in every way, from its glitzy, spacious interiors to its ambitious, head-turning menu. Usually, Dinings SW3 focuses on sushi and sashimi, serving seasonal fish with real, premium wasabi, ensuring each feast is bursting with flavour.
Special Highlights:
- Using seasonal, pure ingredients.
- A handcrafted sushi infused with wasabi.
- Setting that is both intimate and elegant.
Yashin Sushi Bar
Yashin Sushi Bar, one of London’s top wasabi restaurants, serves classical Japanese sushi with a modern twist. With an expertly trained staff, this sushi bar is a favourite among connoisseurs because of its attentive and knowledgeable service. Freshly grated wasabi complements the seafood and sushi served at Yashin Sushi Bar, a modern Japanese restaurant.
Special Highlights:
- With sushi, you can get real wasabi.
- Presentations that are innovative and modern.
- Staff with extensive knowledge.
Atariya
Atariya offers the best wasabi experience in London because of its commitment to quality and freshness. It is well known for its sashimi-grade fish, which is why it is a favourite of sushi lovers. The wasabi they use complements the high-quality fish perfectly, making it an ideal place for purists to visit.
Special Highlights:
- The real deal when it comes to sushi wasabi.
- The atmosphere is casual and no-frills.
- Excellent service with a quick turnaround time.
Surprising Health Benefits of Wasabi
If you’re wondering whether are wasabi good for your health or not, here’s what you need to know:
- Contains Antioxidants
The antioxidant compounds in Wasabi, including 6-methylsulfonyl hexyl isothiocyanate (MSITC), also neutralise free radicals. Generally, it is believed that eating a diet high in antioxidants will help prevent heart disease and certain cancers by scavenging free radicals from the body.
Anti-inflammatory Properties
With its anti-inflammatory properties, it has several benefits for our health as a whole. It is believed that the compounds in wasabi can help reduce pain, promote joint health, and even reduce the risk of chronic inflammation. Try a little bit of it and see how it feels.
Boost Immune System
There is a high level of vitamin C as well as compounds called isothiocyanates (ITCs), which have antibacterial properties and aid in the fight against infections. To maximise the benefits of wasabi, it’s recommended that wasabi-inclusive diets be followed by proper rest, exercise, and a healthy lifestyle.
Promotes Heart Health
A study published in the journal Foods found that wasabi reduced inflammatory cell infiltration in obese rats’ hearts. Also, Avni Kaul explained how antioxidants in wasabi may help promote blood vessel health, lower blood pressure, and potentially reduce heart disease risk.
Reduce The Risk of Cancer
According to some research, wasabi and other brassica vegetables can slow down cancer cell growth (including colon and breast cancer), thereby reducing the risk of those cancers. The reason for this may be the isothiocyanate compounds, which have anticancer properties.
How Do You Tell Whether Wasabi is Real or Fake?
To tell whether wasabi is legitimate or fake, one of the main signs is the type of plant used. In general, vibrant wasabi is grated from the wasabi plant, whereas imitation wasabi is a paste made from horseradish, mustard powder, and green food colouring. Besides, imitation wasabi is more readily available than real wasabi in London.
Another way is wasabi, which is fresh and genuine and is quite mild. You may still feel a slight burn and do a little rabbit nose twitch, but it’s not as severe as the kind that screws up your face and makes you choke.
Additionally, there is a significant difference in colour and taste, which is more herbal and sweet. Its texture is also grittier because it is grated directly from the plant, as opposed to the fake variety, which is often processed into a smooth paste similar to Play-Doh or toothpaste.
Considering where and how you consume wasabi is another way to assess its authenticity. If it is provided in a packet, tube, or sitting on the table as a condiment, it is most likely not real wasabi.
The reason for this is that once grated wasabi is released into the open air, it only holds its signature flavour for about 15 minutes. That’s why sushi holds the wasabi under the fish for a little while longer.
Why is Real Wasabi So Expensive in London?
As you can imagine, growing a wasabi plant is difficult since it requires some incredibly specific growing conditions! It requires being particularly submerged in clean, moving water, which is not a common setting in farming.
It grows on rocky riverbeds. Wasabi plants can be killed by even slight changes in the environment: they are extremely sensitive plants. Because this plant is so difficult to grow, it naturally has a very high market value.
Final Word
The best wasabi restaurant London has to offer is Negi & Nori, while Dinings SW3 boasts a hidden gem. No matter how experienced or inexperienced you are in Japanese food, you won’t be disappointed with these top 10 Wasabi restaurants. So, as soon as possible, visit these top must-visit spots to fulfil your cravings.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where to use Wasabi?
This Japanese cuisine commonly uses Japanese side dishes as a condiment for sushi, tofu, sashimi and katsu curry. With this food, the pungent flavour of wasabi can boost the fish’s natural sweetness. In addition to noodles like soba and udon, it is used as a seasoning as well. Where it adds depth and complexity to broths and sauces. In addition to marinades, dressings, and dips, it can enhance the flavour of a variety of foods.
Why is wasabi so spicy?
An organic chemical compound in wasabi called allyl isothiocyanate contributes to its spicy taste. It stimulates nerve receptors in the tongue and mouth. However, the same compound can be found in horseradish and mustard, both members of the Brassicaceae family.
What does wasabi taste like?
Usually, this is described as hot with a piquant flavour like hot mustard. However, different parts of the wasabi taste are different. For example, the top part contains more moisture than the bottom part, which tends to be more flavorful than hot. On the other hand, the bottom part is a pale one that is less flavorful but packs more hits. And the model part is well-balanced between flavour and heat.
Are London restaurants offering real wasabi?
Unfortunately, most of the dining establishments in London serve a green paste made from horseradish, mustard, and some green dye, which they call wasabi. However, there are high-end restaurants such as Negi & Nori and Nobu, which provide this tropical food in its original form, fresh for the sake of quality.
How to consume wasabi in London?
When it comes to eating wasabi, a small dab is enough to enliven your sashimi or sushi. To fully appreciate the unique flavour profile of this intriguing condiment, sushi connoisseurs usually recommend placing it directly on the sushi piece, between the fish and the rice. In addition, it is suggested that you start with a modest amount. Then adjust it according to your heat tolerance.
Why is wasabi most popular in London?
The popularity of wasabi in London can be linked to the wide variety of food choices and the growing popularity of sushi and other Japanese foods in the city. With the mainstreaming of sushi and ramen and sashimi, so did wasabi as one of the important ingredients. Diners looking out for their health are all too keen on its simple, low-calorie aspect, even while bold cooks incorporate it into other cuisines and raise its profile further.