The Arkai

The food and service were truly world-class and worthy of a special occasion, but considering the price tag I don't think I can give it 5 stars. We ended up paying over £800 for 2 as drinks are not included in the £600 prepayment - on top of that we were asked at the end if we want 2 sushi rolls for an extra £100 if we were still hungry, a little bit ridiculous.

Tremendous experience - Japanese omakase at a small counter setting with detailed explanation of the composition of each dish in English. As someone who frequents omakase restaurants in the Asia and the US, this feature definitely stands out and we can see chef Marty’s passion preparing each dish. Recommend for the experience alone. The nigiri was top grade and features regional/ local catches that varies based on season and supply.

I recently had the privilege of dining here, under the expert guidance of Chef Marty Lau, and it was an experience that exceeded all expectations. The chef's passion for his craft were evident in every dish that graced our table. The creativity and innovation displayed in his dishes were truly awe-inspiring. Each course was a carefully choreographed symphony of flavors and textures that delighted the senses and left me in a state of culinary bliss. Beyond his culinary expertise, Chef Lau's warm and engaging personality added an extra layer of enjoyment to the experience. I loved how he took the time to educate me on the proper etiquette and technique of enjoying nigiri, ensuring that I experienced it to its fullest potential. Yes, it is quite pricey.. but it is worth every single penny. If you're looking for more than just a memorable dining experience, then The Araki is a MUST. I am grateful for the knowledge shared by Chef Lau and the rest of the amazing team, as it has forever enhanced my sushi experience! Will definitely be coming back here on my next trip to London.

The food and sake are faultless, definitely 5 star but it loses a star because of the clientele. Some guy was on FaceTime half the time, one person was shouting about how they were vegetarian (I can only assume they paid the full amount for just a seat at the table), the others were nice enough but barely looked up from their conversation to engage with the chef. The idea being that if they are paying this crazy price they can do whatever they want. The price gets you quality but it also gets you next to people who are there, not to experience something special, but just for a dinner on a Tuesday night and that brings down the whole vibe as a result. When you pay this sort of price - we paid a bit over £400 a head - you want everything to be perfect. Unfortunately there is potential won’t find that here if you get unlucky with whoever books the other 8 places at the counter. Again, chef, food, service, sake were incredible and if you’re only concerned with excellent food, go for it, but if you want to eat with people who are into the food and into the experience, maybe look elsewhere.

Look, this is an expensive place to eat and whilst the food alone is absolutely faultless, it probably cannot justify the final bill.... BUT, you are paying for the experience. It is really intimate, you are part of a working kitchen, you see, hear and smell everything that goes on and service is impeccable (as it should be). In these times, I fully understand people balking at the price, the answer though is to not go if it bothers you. It is daft paying upfront then dropping a low rating because it was expensive. Did I enjoy it? 100%, a fantastic memorable experience and, as per above the food was faultless. Would I go again? I'd certainly like to.... It is more of a one off treat though, than anything you could repeat