Soho dining guide for sushi, ramen, and more
Soho is one of the easiest places in central London to eat well, with Japanese restaurants tucked between Kingly Court, Berwick Street, and Carnaby. This guide brings together polished dining rooms, counter seating, and relaxed ramen spots, so you can choose the right table for a quick lunch, a business meal, or a longer evening out. Expect sushi, robata grill dishes, udon, and contemporary plates, alongside thoughtful service and menus that suit all kinds of plans. If you're deciding where to eat in Soho, start here for a clear mix of familiar names and useful options, from top rated sushi London diners return to, to casual places worth knowing for a straightforward bowl or a more composed dinner.
Nobu London (Old Park Lane)
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What to expect
A calm, well-staffed dining room with plated dishes that focus on texture and balance. Staff take time to explain options and adapt dishes for vegetarian or vegan requests. Expect a wine-led drinks list and a measured pace that suits conversation.
Plan your visit
Book ahead, especially for evenings and weekends. Mention any dietary needs when you reserve so the kitchen can adapt dishes. For business meals ask for a quieter table and allow time for a relaxed, multi-course service. Dress smart-casual.
ROKA Canary Wharf
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What to expect
Expect a refined dining experience where Japanese-inspired flavour profiles meet modern presentation. The dining room feels warm and elegant, with wood accents and confident design that suits intimate dates as well as lively group gatherings. Service is professional and attentive, staff are happy to advise on menu choices, and seasonal menus highlight thoughtful combinations. The place can become lively at peak times, so consider booking ahead for larger parties.
Plan your visit
Book in advance for weekends and larger groups to secure a preferred table. Dress smart-casual to match the polished interior, and note any dietary needs when booking so staff can assist. Combine the visit with a stroll around Canary Wharf to enjoy riverside views and public art, making the meal part of a full London outing.
NALA Japanese Restaurant
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What to expect
A compact menu of sushi, sashimi, tempura and rice bowls, plus a short drinks list that includes sake and beer. Tables and a sushi counter share the space, so you can choose a quick solo seat or a small table for two to four. Portions are sensible and the kitchen moves at a steady pace.
Plan your visit
If you prefer a counter experience, ask for a seat by the sushi bar when you book. For a varied meal, order a set or several small plates to share. Mention any dietary needs when you reserve so the kitchen can advise. Bring time for a relaxed order and enjoy the steady pace of service.
ROBATA
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What to expect
Expect a mix of grilled skewers straight from the robata, neat sashimi and creative rolls such as Californian-style variants and tuna tartare. Plates are made to share, portions are balanced and service moves at a steady pace. Seating includes a counter by the grill for a close-up view of the cooking, plus small tables for groups or pairs.
Plan your visit
Book ahead for evening visits and request counter seating if you want to watch the grill. Order a selection of skewers and a roll to share, and add sashimi for variety. Mention any special occasion to the staff; they often note it. Aim for smart-casual dress and bring a small group if you want to try more dishes.
Shoryu Ramen Carnaby
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What to expect
Expect a compact menu built around steaming bowls of ramen, attention to broth and toppings, and a brisk service style. Seating is informal, with a mix of small tables and counter spots. The vibe is practical rather than formal, popular with shoppers and groups looking for a quick, satisfying meal.
Plan your visit
Allow a flexible window for your meal rather than a strict schedule. If you want a quieter table, aim to arrive before the main lunch or evening rush. Bring a small group or go solo; both work well here. Keep time for a short wait at busier moments.
Marugame Udon Argyll
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What to expect
Counter ordering and quick turnaround. Bowls are prepared to order and you can add tempura and other toppings before you sit. Seating is practical rather than formal, with a lively, no-frills vibe. The menu is focused, so choices are straightforward.
Plan your visit
Aim for a weekday morning or early lunch slot if you want a quieter experience. Decide whether you want a simple bowl or something with tempura or extras before you reach the counter to speed the process. If you need to eat on the go, the ordering style suits takeaway. Bring a small group or come alone, both work well here.
Aqua Shard
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What to expect
A polished dining room with floor-to-ceiling windows, attentive service and seasonal menus. Tables by the glass are in demand, the pace is unhurried, and the overall tone is smart-casual. The focus is on presentation and flavours rather than loud music or a party atmosphere.
Plan your visit
Book in advance and ask for a window table if the view matters. Mention any dietary needs when you reserve. Expect a composed service style, so plan for a relaxed meal rather than a quick stop. If you want daylight photos, choose an earlier booking and arrive a little before your slot.
Chotto Matte Soho
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What to expect
Expect a menu built for sharing, with raw and grilled dishes that blend Japanese techniques with South American flavours. The bar focuses on polished cocktails and sake, and the room gets lively as the night progresses. Service is professional and pacey, suited to social meals rather than long, quiet dinners.
Plan your visit
Book a table in advance, especially for evenings and weekends. If you want a cocktail-focused visit, ask for bar seating. Mention dietary needs when you reserve. Arrive early if you prefer a quieter table, and allow time for sharing plates rather than rushing through courses.
Shoryu Ramen Soho
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What to expect
A compact menu centred on ramen, with a few sides like gyoza and rice dishes. Expect warm, savoury broths and noodles cooked to order. Service is efficient and geared to turnover, so food arrives quickly. The interior is tidy and modern, with counter seats that work well if you’re dining alone.
Plan your visit
If you’re new to ramen, pick a signature bowl and choose the noodle firmness and spice level where offered. Share a side or two for variety, especially with friends. Counter seating is convenient for solo diners, while small groups may prefer to book a table or arrive a little before peak times. The menu usually includes a few meat-free options, and card payment is accepted.