As one of the oldest Japanese restaurants in London, we are proud to share that So Restaurant’s owner, Mr Tetsuro Hama, travelled to Japan to receive the Order of the Rising Sun, Gold and Silver Rays. The award ceremony took place at Japan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs. He then travelled with the other awardees to the Imperial Palace, where the Emperor shared some celebratory words.
In case you’ve never heard of this honour, The Order of the Rising Sun, Gold and Silver Rays is one of Japan’s most distinguished awards. It is awarded to individuals who have made significant, lasting contributions to their fields, recognising excellence, dedication, and impact.
This exceptional accolade celebrates Mr Hama’s decades of commitment to introducing and preserving authentic Japanese cuisine in London.
Although recognition was never his aim, this award symbolises his continued work toward sharing Japan’s culinary heritage and, as a result, fostering a deeper appreciation of its traditions worldwide.
Japanese Restaurants: The Story of So Restaurant, London, and its Creator, Mr Tetsuro Hama
Born in Nagano in 1948 and raised in Tokyo, Japan, Mr Hama first set foot in the UK in 1971 as a graduate. He did a lot of travelling and a lot of thinking.
While he was here, he saw an opportunity: authentic Japanese food was virtually unknown in London at the time. There were only five (expensive) Japanese restaurants in the city.
His idea was simple—to open a restaurant that made Japanese cuisine more affordable by offering dishes beyond the stereotypical sushi and sashimi.
‘People thought “Japanese food means sushi”, so I wanted to challenge that kind of perception.’ Mr Tetsuro Hama.
However, his dream of opening an authentic Japanese restaurant in London was fraught with challenges. He had little financial backing, no local connections, and limited English, all of which made the journey a daunting one.
Breaking the Mould
In 1973, he took a bold risk by approaching the owners of a Bayswater hotel with an audacious proposal. Against the odds, he convinced them that opening a Japanese restaurant in their hotel was not only viable, but also to let him do it virtually rent-free. They even agreed to construct additional kitchen facilities for him.
The restaurant, named Japanese Grill Room Hama, marked a turning point. Without the resources to hire an experienced head chef, Mr Hama employed a young Japanese chef freshly trained in French cuisine and set about redefining Japanese dining in London.
While other Japanese establishments imported their ingredients by sea—leading to inflated costs and reduced quality—Mr Hama focused on grilling British seafood using authentic Japanese techniques. This innovative approach introduced Londoners to genuine Japanese flavours while keeping the dishes affordable.
he Japanese Grill Room Hama became a trailblazer in offering a taste of true Japanese culinary culture, celebrating authenticity through thoughtfully prepared dishes that resonated with traditional Japanese cooking.
A Taste of Japanese Cuisine and Tradition
By 2006, Mr Hama launched So Restaurant, a culmination of his years of experience and passion.
Today, the So Restaurant is celebrated for its signature dishes and laid-back, serene atmosphere.
Our restaurant offers a unique dining experience, blending traditional Japanese flavours with modern culinary techniques. From the carefully selected ingredients to the meticulous presentation, every dish is a mouthwatering masterpiece
The instalment of cosy Japanese yatai food stalls has also been a great success. These our customers love to sit to enjoy yatai tapas menu, with dishes like takoyaki, isochiku, Wagyu beef tataki, crunchy wasabi garden peas, lotus root fries, and oshinko to name a few!
Our Team
Head Chef Zu was born and brought up in Setagaya, Tokyo, Japan. He is a descendant of the family that established the famous Ogura-an, a special type of red bean paste that is a cross between koshi-an and tsubu-san. It is a prime ingredient in many Japanese sweet delicacies. Zu has been fascinated with everything about food from an early age; eating, talking, reading, discussing, all foods.
Naoko Nadiah was born and brought up in North West London. Prior to running a restaurant, Nadiah was a performance artist and trans-creator for a Japanese stage production company that created Noh* based theatre show touring Japan and Europe. She also worked as a trans creator for media/theatre/art organisations.
Our husband and wife team, Zu and Nadiah, met at a wonderful reggae cafe ‘Toranoko Shokudo’ owned and run by their friend Yakko-chan in Shibuya, Tokyo The most joyous bar/restaurant/music venue there ever was!
Zu and Nadiah’s love for food, art and music can be felt the moment you step inside So Restaurant.
Exclusive Yogan-Yaki Grill
So Restaurant is one of the few places in London to use a custom-made Yogan-Yaki grill.
Specially imported from the volcanic region of Mount Fuji, a Yogan-Yaki grill uses volcanic rock to create a precise and even heat distribution, a hallmark of traditional Japanese cooking.
The porous nature of the rock imparts a subtle, smoky aroma to the food, enhancing its natural flavours while maintaining its tenderness and juiciness.
Cooking with the Yogan-Yaki grill ensures that each dish, from delicately marinated fish to premium cuts of meat, is seared to perfection, offering a dining experience that authentically captures the essence of Japanese cuisine. This rare technique is a testament to our continued commitment to blending tradition with culinary excellence.
Signature Yogan-Yaki Dishes Include:
- Miso-marinated black cod: A delicately prepared masterpiece with umami-rich flavors.
- Kabayaki eel: Grilled to perfection on a custom-made yogan-yaki grill, soy sauce is used to enhance the rich flavours of the eel.
The restaurant’s warm and inviting interior, complete with traditional Japanese yatai stalls and wooden tables, offers a calm and intimate dining experience. The restuarant is available for private hire for a special occasion or event, giving guests an authentic evening to remember.
Japanese Food, Signature Dishes, and Miso Soup
At So Restaurant, our signature dishes are a testament to the rich tapestry of Japanese cuisine. Each dish is meticulously crafted to highlight the freshest ingredients and the authentic flavours of Japan.
Among our classic menu offerings is our miso soup, a comforting bowl of rich, savoury broth brimming with tender tofu and delicate seaweed. This traditional favourite is a perfect introduction to the depth of Japanese flavours.
Traditional favourites include miso soup, sushi, sashimi, katsu, tempura, and premium wagyu beef.
Our menu also features an array of thoughtfully curated to provide a balanced and satisfying meal — although, if you’re not sure what to order, our head chef’s choice will steer you right.
Enjoy a delightful assortment of grilled meats, steamed vegetables, noodles, and pickled ginger, offering a harmonious blend of tastes and textures.
Whether you’re savouring our sushi, sashimi, or hot dishes, every bite at So Restaurant is a celebration of Japanese culinary artistry.
The Japanese Restaurant Experience
Stepping into So Restaurant is like being transported to the bustling streets of Tokyo. Our modern decor, inspired by traditional Japanese aesthetics, creates a lively yet relaxed atmosphere that invites you to unwind and enjoy your meal. Our chefs, trained in the time-honoured techniques of Japanese cooking, bring a wealth of expertise and artistry to every dish they prepare.
From the moment you arrive, our friendly and knowledgeable staff are on hand to guide you through our menu, offering recommendations and insights into the dishes.
Whether you’re a seasoned aficionado of Japanese cuisine or a curious newcomer, we strive to provide an authentic dining experience that captures the essence of Japan.
A Legacy of Teaching and Community
In addition to So Restaurant, Mr Tetsuro Hame’s passion for Japanese cuisine extends to education. In 2013, he founded the Sozai Cooking School. The school offers hands-on classes in sushi making, Japanese dessert making, and more. This initiative continues to share and inspire a love of Japanese cooking among Londoners, embodying the Japanese spirit of ‘Wakon yōsai’ by blending traditional techniques with British produce.
For those who want to explore the art of cooking authentic Japanese dishes at home, check out the Sozai Cooking School website.
Mr Tetsuro Hama also plays a pivotal role in shaping the next generation of culinary talent through the Japanese Culinary Academy. In 2017, his dedication to this cause was recognised when the organisation received the Ambassador’s Commendation from the Japanese Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries—a prestigious award that highlights their contributions to fostering cross-cultural appreciation and professional excellence in Japanese cuisine.
An Incredible Milestone
While Mr Hama never set out to win awards, his original plan to challenge the perception of Japanese food means he’s created something truly special. His legacy in London and in So Restaurant has gone beyond a simple dining establishment.
The Order of the Rising Sun, Gold and Silver Rays is a testament to the years of hard work and dedication that Mr Tetsuro Hama has poured into sharing traditional Japanese cuisine.
In his characteristic humility, Mr Hama reflected on being given the award:
‘I feel happy and proud, but I also feel a little embarrassed… I owe it all to the help I’ve received from so many people over the years that I’m where I am today, and I would like to express my sincere gratitude to them.’
Mr Hama’s passion for Japanese cuisine is infectious and marks us out as one of the best Japanese restaurants in London. Through So Restaurant, he has not only introduced countless people to the wonders of Japanese food but has also helped spread a deeper appreciation for Japanese culture.
As a family-run restaurant, we are incredibly proud of him, and while we celebrate this prestigious award, we remain focused on what has always been most important to us: offering an authentic, high-quality Japanese dining experience.
We are grateful for the recognition and more committed than ever to sharing the rich traditions of Japan through our food.
The Future of So Restaurant
At So Restaurant, we are always looking ahead, seeking new ways to enhance our menu and dining experience so the food isn’t just the main event.
Our commitment to using the freshest, sustainable ingredients is unwavering, and we continually strive to reduce our environmental impact. We are passionate about sharing our love of Japanese cuisine with our customers, offering regular events to inspire and educate.
From intimate wine pairing evenings that highlight the intricate relationship between sake and Japanese flavours to cultural events featuring traditional to contemporary Japanese music, we aim to create memorable dining experiences.
These events provide our guests with an opportunity to deepen their appreciation of Japanese culture while savouring expertly crafted dishes. Whether it’s a sushi workshop, a sake-tasting journey, or a celebration of seasonal Japanese delicacies, our events offer something special for every guest.
Whether you are a longtime fan of Japanese food or just beginning to explore its wonders and flavours, we invite you to join us at So Restaurant.
Experience the best of Japanese cuisine, crafted with care, enriched by culture, and served with pride.
What Our Guests Are Saying
At So Restaurant, we strive to be among the best Japanese restaurants by sharing the true essence of Japan with Londoners. Don’t just take our word for it—here’s what some of our guests have to say:
- “The place was full of Asian/Japanese people on a Saturday night, a sign they are providing a truly authentic Japanese dining experience. We will definitely come back!”
- “The quality of fish is excellent, and the price is reasonable for the good quality.”
- “Taste was great, and the tempura was exceptional.”
- “One of the oldest Japanese restaurants in London, and the main clients here were Japanese. Apparently, the restaurant has a good reputation within the Japanese society here.”
- “Have been going for years. Very reliable beautiful Japanese food. The black cod is amazing.”
Whether it’s the unparalleled freshness of our fish, the expertly prepared tempura, or the welcoming atmosphere that reminds guests of Japan, these testimonials reflect our commitment to quality, authenticity, and hospitality.
We’re honoured to be a favourite among both locals and the Japanese community in London, and we look forward to continuing to serve dishes that delight and inspire.
Thank you for being part of our journey.
Visit So Japanese Restaurant Today
We invite you to continue experiencing the very best of Japanese cuisine at So Restaurant, where authenticity, quality, and hospitality come together in every dish.
Whether you’re a longtime fan of Japanese cuisine or a curious newcomer, So Restaurant offers a dining experience like no other in Japanese restaurant in London. Ever popular is our Yatai menu, and our chef specials, but customer favourites also include sushi, sashimi, Katsu curry, Kabayaki, and Wagyu.
Along with a variety of sake, we also serve cocktails with a Japanese twist, and an exclusive range of imported Japanese whiskeys.
Conveniently located in the East End, near Spitalfields Market, it’s the perfect spot for lunch, dinner, or a special occasion.
We do hope you’ll come and see us soon.
