London's culinary scene is brimming with exceptional Japanese cuisine, but one restaurant has now been officially declared the city's finest sushi destination. According to a new, expert-curated guide from Time Out, the coveted top spot goes to a tiny, seven-seat omakase counter in Clerkenwell.
The Ultimate Sushi Destination Revealed
Published on Wednesday 17 December 2025, the definitive list of London's top 20 sushi restaurants was compiled by Japanese cuisine expert Erin Niimi Longhurst. It spans the full spectrum, from no-frills takeaways like Islington's Sushi Show and classic conveyor belt venues such as Kulu Kulu in Soho, to Michelin-starred establishments including Endo at the Rotunda in White City and Umu in Mayfair.
However, rising above all others is Sushi Tetsu in Clerkenwell. Praised for its elegant omakase offering, the husband-and-wife-run restaurant has been a fixture since 2012 and remains one of the capital's most sought-after reservations due to its incredibly intimate size.
An Exclusive and Pricey Culinary Experience
The exclusivity of Sushi Tetsu is a major part of its allure. The restaurant features just seven counter seats, making bookings fiercely competitive. The experience comes at a premium, with the full omakase menu priced at £187 per person. A slightly reduced cost of £167 is available for Saturday lunchtimes.
Erin Niimi Longhurst notes that the reward is worth the effort and expense, describing it as a "truly wonderful experience." She writes: ‘The husband and wife team behind Sushi Tetsu continue to serve some of the most expertly crafted sushi you can get outside of Japan in a warm, intimate setting.’ For those desperate to secure a table, her top tip is to consider solo dining, stating that ‘a midweek solo booking is always easier to nab.’
Top Alternatives for Every Budget
Recognising that Sushi Tetsu's price point is prohibitive for many, the Time Out list also highlights excellent, more accessible options. For a budget-friendly treat, the maki at Sushi Show in Islington costs between £6 and £10. Meanwhile, the newly opened Sushi Kyu in Soho offers a compelling pre-theatre omakase menu for £49.
The full ranking provides a vital guide for sushi lovers navigating London's vast and varied offerings, proving that world-class Japanese dining can be found from casual counters to high-end destinations.
