Asakusa Japanese Restaurant

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by Meryl K (subscribe)

I challenge myself everyday to beat the gloom of London's weather by searching out places and food that will provide spots of sunshine :)

Published July 6th 2012

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This easy-to-miss Japanese restaurant might appear to have a rather run-down exterior, but venture inside and you'll find a gem hidden near Camden Town.

Asakusa has an extensive menu that does typical Japanese favourites such as sushi, sashimi and tempura. However, I recommend straying from the typical path and trying out less common dishes instead. Go on, I dare you.

Some dishes that particularly stand out would be the Nasu Dengaku (grilled aubergine with miso sauce), Saba Shio (grilled mackerel with salt), Buta No Kakuni (braised pork belly), Unagi Don (grilled eel on rice) and the Tofu Steak.

Nasa Dengaku (left) and Saba Shio (right)

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Asakusa does a good job with these dishes - the Saba Shio is grilled perfectly and isn't overpoweringly salty, while the braised pork belly comes apart easily and melts in your mouth. The grilled miso aubergine provides a sweet companion to the savoury dishes, while the Unagi Don is sure to satisfy the carbo-needy - the chef is nothing but generous with the sauce atop the large slices of grilled eel. Go for the tofu steak if you want a simpler yet satisfying option, and be sure to wash it all down with cups of hot green tea.

With so many dishes to sample, it would naturally make sense to go in a group of 3-4 people (or alternatively, 2 people with hearty appetites could work as well).

The restaurant tends to get booked up very quickly, so it's best to call a few days in advance to ensure you get a table.