Discover Umu Restaurant in Mayfair London — A Refined Japanese Dining Experience

Nestled in the charming alleyway of Bruton Place, London, Umu Restaurant offers an exquisite journey into traditional Kyoto-style Japanese cuisine. This smart-casual fine dining spot is celebrated for its artistic presentation, meticulous attention to detail, and the use of premium local British produce prepared with authentic techniques. Whether you're a foodie seeking an elegant Tokyo-inspired meal or a trend-conscious traveler craving a sophisticated London dining experience, Umu promises an unforgettable encounter with refined flavors in a cozy, intimate setting.

A culinary journey blending tradition and innovation

Umu excels at delivering an authentic Japanese experience that honors traditional Kaiseki techniques while embracing the best seasonal British ingredients. The menu features multiple lunch specials and a la carte options, including vegetarian dishes that cater thoughtfully to dietary preferences. Diners often praise the harmonious balance between texture, flavor, and visual artistry. Signature offerings like the Bento box with fresh fish, accompanied by miso soup and delicate pickles, highlight the kitchen's dedication to quality and craftsmanship.

What to expect at Umu

Atmosphere and service: Umu's intimate and unpretentious ambiance invites guests to unwind while enjoying exceptional hospitality. From the warm welcome by the host to attentive, professional service by the chefs and staff, the experience reflects the high standards expected of a Michelin-worthy establishment.

Pricing: While prices are on the higher side—reflecting the quality and location—the refined portions focus on ingredient excellence rather than volume. Expect to pay around £260 for the Kaiseki menu, with wine pairings from £120 to £240.

Does Umu offer vegetarian dishes? Yes, the restaurant provides vegetarian-friendly options and accommodates dietary needs upon request.
Is a reservation required? Due to its popularity and limited seating, booking ahead is highly recommended to secure your table.
What is the dress code? Umu maintains a smart-casual dress code; formal wear is not mandatory, but guests are encouraged to dress tastefully.
What are the opening hours? Umu is open Tuesday to Saturday, serving lunch from 12:00 PM to 2:30 PM and dinner from 6:00 PM to 10:00 PM. It is closed on Sundays and Mondays.

Community sentiment highlights

Reviews for Umu reflect a mixed but generally positive sentiment. Patrons frequently commend the restaurant's commitment to authentic flavors, exceptional service, and elegant yet cozy atmosphere. Some mention that while the pricing and portion sizes may feel steep, the overall quality, from ingredient selection to presentation, justifies the experience. The team, including servers and chefs, receives praise for their warmth and professionalism, contributing to a memorable dining occasion.

histoire de umu restaurant

Name: Umu Restaurant
Address: 14-16 Bruton Pl, London W1J 6LX, UK, London, W1J 6LX, GB
Telephone: 020 7499 8881
Price range: $$

Situé au 14-16 Bruton Place à Londres, Umu Restaurant incarne l'élégance et l'authenticité de la cuisine japonaise inspirée de Kyoto. Depuis son ouverture en 2004, il s'est rapidement distingué comme un établissement de premier plan dans la scène culinaire londonienne.

Dès ses débuts, Umu a su captiver ses convives grâce à une cuisine raffinée, utilisant des ingrédients de haute qualité et des techniques traditionnelles. La discrétion de son entrée et son décor sophistiqué offrent une expérience culinaire intime, propre aux palais exigeants en quête d'authenticité.

L'histoire de ce restaurant est marquée par une reconnaissance rapide et continue dans le monde gastronomique. En 2004, seulement cinq mois après son ouverture, Umu a obtenu sa première étoile Michelin, un exploit remarquable qui témoigne de la qualité exceptionnelle de sa cuisine. La reconnaissance s'est renforcée en 2015, lorsque le restaurant a décroché une seconde étoile Michelin, consolidant sa place parmi les meilleures adresses de Londres.

Aujourd'hui, en 2020, Umu continue de préserver son statut prestigieux, maintenant sa deuxième étoile Michelin, symbole de son engagement constant envers l'excellence culinaire. Ce lieu demeure une étape incontournable pour les amateurs de cuisine japonaise authentique à Londres, combinant tradition et innovation dans chaque plat servi.

Une tradition d'excellence culinaire

Umu Restaurant at a glance

Located at 14-16 Bruton Place in London, Umu Restaurant is a Michelin-starred establishment that specializes in authentic Kyoto-inspired cuisine. Known for its elegant and intimate ambiance, it offers a refined dining experience with high-quality ingredients and exceptional service.

Pros

Authentic Kyoto-inspired cuisine
High-quality ingredients
Elegant and intimate ambiance
Michelin-starred recognition
Attentive service

Cons

High pricing
Variable portion sizes
Inconsistent service quality
Limited menu options
No lunch service on Sundays and Mondays

Ideal for

Umu Restaurant is ideal for special occasions, romantic dinners, and food enthusiasts seeking a high-end Japanese dining experience.

Things to know before visiting

Reservations are recommended due to limited seating. The restaurant does not serve lunch on Sundays and Mondays, and parking can be challenging in the area.

Overall impression

Umu Restaurant offers a unique dining experience that combines exquisite Japanese cuisine with a sophisticated atmosphere. While it may be on the pricier side, the quality of the food and service makes it a worthwhile visit for those seeking a memorable meal in London.

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