Think of London and Japanese culture and cuisine might not be the first thing that pops into your mind. However, with the launch of Japan House and Europe’s biggest Japanese food hall, Japan Centre, in Westfield London earlier this year. It’s hard to ignore the flourishing Japanese scene. With all the sushi restaurants and the hundreds of ramen stores popping up all over the city. There is a little hidden gem in the heart of London that serves world class wagyu beef among its crazily beautiful menu: Engawa.

With a capacity of just 29 and an open kitchen that lets you see the chef at work. Fully demonstrating the traditional cuisine of washoku. Although there is very little (or no) interaction with the chefs, their knowledgeable and friendly front of house is 100% omotenashi trained.

The Caviar of Meat

It’s not hard to see why wagyu (kobe) beef is featured as the main attraction in Engawa. If you’ve ever tasted this melt in your mouth meat, you will understand why. Only around 3000 of these cattles make the grade each year and approximately 30 leave Japan. Engawa is London’s only restaurant to export the entire animal to butcher in house. You can be sure to get the best cut for your chosen dish.

The Menu

The couple of times that we have visited have always been for dinner. There is a choice of A La Carte or 3 course (£65) or 5 (£85) course menus. The difference between the 3 and 5 course menu is the addition of a “Chef’s Special Dish of the Day” and dessert, which changes on a daily basis.

If you’re not sure what you want to order, I definitely recommend the 5 course menu. I guarantee you will not be disappointed and will be so fulfilled at the end that you are certain to come back for a second time.

I definitely will do, as I really want to try their lunch menu, specifically the Hakozen Bento Box (£40-50).

You might be rolling your eyes at the £ signs. Although expensive, kobe beef is one of the most expensive and sought after beef in the world. Aside from that, the authentic experience of Japanese cuisine and hospitality in London makes this pretty much a bargain. I wouldn’t say this would be a regular haunt, but for something a little special, this would definitely be high on my list.

Enough reading, here are some delicious pictures (you’re welcome) to stare at:

I hope you had fun reading and looking through my pictures as much as we enjoyed visiting this little magical restaurant tucked away in the hustle and bustle of London. If you’re ever in town visiting or wondering what food to try, remember: engawa.

Until next time…

Love, Msmamabean x