Savour * Taku Mayfair
Omakase Magic at Taku Mayfair, London
In the heart of London's Mayfair, Chef Takuya Watanabe has woven culinary magic at his intimate 16-seater sushi haven. After a successful decade at Jin restaurant in Paris, Watanabe brought his expertise to the English capital in 2022, unveiling a gastronomic masterpiece. The restaurant's centerpiece is a striking counter crafted from exquisite English oak, setting the stage for an unforgettable omakase experience.
Chef Watanabe's artistry shines through in his omakase menu, a testament to his dedication to sourcing the finest European ingredients, particularly those from local waters. With an air of purity and elegance, each bite offers a glimpse into Watanabe's culinary journey, occasionally nodding to his French influences. Whether you opt for the single lunch or one of the two dinner sittings, punctuality is key, as all guests are served together, ensuring a seamless culinary symphony.
Chef Watanabe, introduces the concept of edomae, harking back to the curing techniques of the Edo period in the 1800s. While the culinary voyage delves into the past, diners are first treated to a contemporary and exhilarating array of small dishes as part of the remarkable 20-course set dinner.
Drawing from a palette of predominantly British ingredients, the journey commences with a miniature pot of mussel soup, exuding seaside nostalgia with its steaming, briny allure. Next, the spotlight turns to meticulously sliced, line-caught sea bass from Cornwall, followed by a decadently creamy French abalone risotto adorned with fragrant shavings of white truffle. A true marvel arrives in the form of a bowl showcasing steamed lobster ensnared in glistening jelly, adorned with delicate sea urchin and dainty purple blooms. Each dish is a masterpiece in its own right, yet the clinical ambiance of the setting invites hushed reverence rather than boisterous conversation. Nevertheless, the culinary symphony orchestrated by Chef Watanabe is an experience that transcends words, leaving diners with whispered expressions of delight and a lasting impression of gastronomic excellence.