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Zuma isn’t just a restaurant; it’s a London legend. Tucked behind the elegance of Harrods in the heart of Knightsbridge, it’s been the gold standard for upscale Japanese dining since 2002. While new luxury spots pop up all the time, Zuma has held its own. Still buzzing, still stylish, and still a go-to for those in the know, it draws in jet-setters, chic locals, and savvy visitors looking for a night of expertly mixed cocktails, sensational food, and a vibrant, high-energy setting.
Where Style Meets Substance
Created by chef Rainer Becker, Zuma brought a refined twist to izakaya-style dining, where dishes come out one after another, made to be shared and enjoyed together. The open-plan layout — with smooth stone finishes, glowing wood accents, and soft, ambient lighting — sets a sleek and sociable tone.
At the centre of it all is the open robata grill, its slow-burning flames dancing beneath skewers of wagyu and sea bass. Meanwhile, the sushi counter runs with quiet focus, turning out dishes that are as artful as they are delicious. It’s a space that radiates balance, calm, and quiet confidence.
Iconic Dishes That Keep People Coming Back
Zuma’s menu reads like a love letter to elevated Japanese cooking. It’s full of bold flavours, delicate touches, and flawless presentation. While every dish has its fans, a few have become true icons:
- Crispy Squid with Green Chilli and Lime: Light, zesty, and irresistibly moreish. A perfect way to kick things off.
- Grilled Lamb Chops with Hatcho Miso: Tender, smoky, and deeply savoury. These slow-grilled chops are pure indulgence.
- Spicy Beef Tenderloin with Sesame and Red Chilli: Bold and beautifully balanced, with just the right mix of heat, sweetness, and melt-in-your-mouth richness.
- Black Cod with Miso: Arguably the signature dish. The cod is flaky and silky, the golden miso glaze is sweet and glossy—it’s perfection on a plate.
- Sushi & Sashimi Platters: Impossibly fresh and stunningly presented. Even the simplest maki feels special.
Still the Place to Be
It’s no mystery why Zuma remains fully booked, night after night. Everything here just works, from the slick service to the stellar drinks list. Walk through the door and the vibe hits you immediately: a low hum of lively conversation, martinis clinking at the bar, and a crowd that looks like they’ve just stepped out of Vogue. It’s glamour without trying too hard, and food that never lets you down.
Why Zuma Still Matters
In a city where restaurants can come and go in a flash, Zuma’s staying power is something special. It hasn’t chased trends or diluted its vision. It’s stayed stylish, stayed true to itself, and kept on delivering.
Whether you’re here to people-watch or just enjoy one of London’s finest Japanese meals, Zuma continues to impress, just as it did over 20 years ago.
Location: 5 Raphael Street, Knightsbridge, London SW7 1DL
