UMU Restaurant Mayfair Review
DISCLOSURE – THIS EXPERIENCE WAS GIFTED TO THE REVIEWER AND GUEST/S FOR THE PURPOSES OF WRITING THE REVIEW.
Reviewed by Dee Ryz
I recently had the pleasure of experiencing a luxurious lunch at Umu, a serene oasis tucked away on a small street in the heart of Mayfair, London. The restaurant is only a five-minute walk from the bustling streets of Soho, and close to both Oxford Street and Green Park tube stations, but it feels worlds apart, offering a calm and sophisticated escape from the city’s energy. I was fortunate enough to have been gifted lunch for two, and both the food and overall experience were exceptional.
From the moment we entered, we were transported into a moody, elegant space that felt very authentically Japanese. The décor is dominated by rich wood, creating an atmosphere that is both calming and sophisticated. The lighting is subtle, allowing the tones of the wood and the minimalist décor to set a tranquil, intimate mood. We were seated near the open kitchen (which takes pride of place in the centre of the room), which was a real highlight. It provided a view of the chefs at work, who prepared the food with such precision and artistry. Watching them was like observing a carefully orchestrated performance, and it certainly added an extra layer of appreciation to our meal!
We began our lunch with some refreshing non-alcoholic beverages. The mocktails were delightful, offering a vibrant and fresh start to the meal. I highly recommend the Yuzu Ginger Lemonade, which was a standout for me – zingy, with just the right amount of tartness from the yuzu and a subtle warmth from the ginger. It set the perfect tone for the dishes to come.
I opted for the Shokado Bento with Wagyu, which at £98 felt like a worthy indulgence given the quality and variety of food included, although don’t let the price scare you too much – the bento box lunches start at only £45, which for a Michelin Star restaurant feels incredibly reasonable! The lunch started with a small, fresh salad that was light and refreshing, setting the stage for the main event. The bento box itself featured four substantial portions: delicate sashimi of the day, tuna tartare, buttery Wagyu beef, and an assortment of fresh vegetables, which was accompanied by pickles and rice. Each item was meticulously prepared and beautifully presented. The Wagyu beef was truly the star – tender, melt-in-your-mouth goodness, draped in a sticky sweet and savoury sauce that elevated each bite. Alongside the bento, I chose the white miso soup, which was light and well-balanced, complementing the richness of the other dishes.
My dining partner, who chose the Chef’s special sushi selection, was equally impressed. Priced at £70, it featured an array of 10 different beautifully crafted sushi, served with soy sauce and accompanied by a red miso soup, which had a smoky depth to it that contrasted nicely with the delicate flavours of the sushi.
To round off the meal, we both had a light lemon sorbet with seasonal fruit. It was the perfect way to end – refreshing, and just the right amount of sweetness without being too heavy.
The service at Umu was impeccable too – attentive without being intrusive, and the staff were knowledgeable about the menu, offering thoughtful recommendations. They made us feel welcome from the moment we arrived and ensured that every part of the dining experience was smooth and enjoyable.
All in all, Umu delivers an experience that’s both refined and relaxed, with a focus on top-quality ingredients and gorgeous presentation. Considering its location right in the heart of Mayfair, it still manages to feel like a bit of a hidden gem. Whether you’re popping in for lunch or planning a special dinner, the combination of amazing food, great service, and that peaceful setting makes it a winner.
I can’t wait to head back to try more of the bento box options, and I’m already thinking of bringing my sushi-obsessed father-in-law for dinner. So, if you’re looking for an exceptional Japanese dining experience in London, Umu should definitely be on your list.
Rating: 5/5