Roketsu, Marylebone
As a lover of Japanese dining, Roketsu has been on my list for ages – and after finally visiting for their Classic Sakura Kappo menu – I can safely say it was worth the wait.
Hidden away in Marylebone, it feels like a peaceful escape from central London. The dining room is beautiful and intimate, with a calm atmosphere that immediately makes you slow down and enjoy the experience. The chef’s table experience is definitely where it’s at. The whole space is undeniably luxurious, but never feels intimidating or overly formal. Fancy, yes. Pretentious, absolutely not.
We opted for the Classic Sakura Kappo tasting menu and every course felt thoughtfully put together. The seared bonito was incredibly fresh, while the foie gras miso monaka was one of those bites you wish lasted longer. Rich, sweet and savoury all at once.
The crab chawanmushi was silky and comforting, and the king prawn tempura was perfectly light and crisp. Nothing felt heavy, despite the richness of some of the ingredients.
One of my favourite courses was the cherry stone clam and bamboo shoot soup. It looked simple, but the flavour was so delicate and layered. It’s the kind of dish that reminds you how impressive great Japanese cooking can be – especially here in humble London!
For the mains, the Iberico pork was beautifully cooked and packed with flavour. The roasted duck with yuzu sauce was another standout, balancing richness with a lovely citrus freshness. Every dish felt seasonal and incredibly well judged.
The sushi course was exceptional. The quality of the fish really spoke for itself and each piece was prepared with so much care. Even the miso soup that followed felt special rather than an afterthought.
Dessert was a strawberry daifuku with red bean paste and matcha mascarpone. Light, fresh and the perfect ending to the meal.
What really makes Roketsu stand out is how effortless it feels. The service is polished without being stiff, and the team strike that difficult balance of being attentive while letting you enjoy the experience at your own pace. A rarity sometimes in the hustle and bustle just off Ocford Street.
Sure, London isn’t short of high-end Japanese restaurants, but Roketsu genuinely feels worth the visit. If you’re looking for a special meal in London, whether it’s a celebration or just an excuse to treat yourself, I’d highly recommend it. The food was outstanding, the setting was intimate and welcoming, and it’s one of those restaurants that is super memorable. I’ve already recommended it to three friends!
Find out more > www.roketsu.co.uk
