**Cheat's Notes**:  SO is a compact restaurant located in Soho that offers great service and a surprisingly sophisticated, fresh and tasty menu.  Loads of room downstairs.  Lunch sets start at £7, and other evening offers are available when pre-booking (see SO's website).  SO serves IPPODO Japanese teas and also offers popular sushi-making classes.  Important warning - Do not skip dessert! 

Asakusa
265 Eversholt Street,
Camden,
London NW1 1BA
Tel: 0871 3328033

Why? My friend Kazu absolutely loves this place. He’s been raving about the Yudebuta Ninniku Miso. 

When? A Friday in September, 9.40pm. This was the earliest/only reservation available a couple days beforehand. We stayed until 12.30pm though!

Ever wish you could be back in Japan – just for a day? There are plenty of places right here in London where you’ll feel like you’ve crossed the world without spending a penny on airfare. No culture shock, no language barriers and no visa required – check out authentic Japan on home turf!

Kikuchi Japanese Restaurant
14 Hanway Street
London W1P 9DD

Tel: 020 7637 7720

Why? For a Japanese-y committee meeting, so we weren't in the upstairs part of the restaurant, but rather downstairs in a private party room with typical bench style seating and cushions - quite nice.