Kūhaku

In the heart of Islington, Kūhaku brings a sleek, minimalist calm with a touch of art deco to North London’s dining scene.

This contemporary spot looks to bring classic Japanese flavours alongside a craft bar menu, pairing precision with warmth. Expertly prepared food that you can smell from the moment you step in, while the attentive service keeps the tempo relaxed, whether it is a swift midweek supper or a celebratory night out.

Sharing is encouraged, from a spicy cucumber salad that snaps with soy, chilli and sesame to silky goma wakame. Comfort takes a crisp turn with potato korroke and pan-fried chicken and vegetable gyoza, before classic cravings are met by tonkatsu with its glossy sauce or torikatsu curry ladled over rice. The cooking favours clean lines and balance, letting texture and temperature do the talking.

The bar mirrors the kitchen’s clarity, pouring a concise list of cocktails and sake. Nama offers a refreshing play of sake, white peach and yuzu with a lift of fizz, while Pink Penicillin leans into whisky, ginger and honey for soothing allure. Settle into the glow, gather friends, and let the evening unfold course by course — a table at Kūhaku is a fine way to make a night of it, chopsticks at the ready.