While our doors haven’t been open long, here at Noya London, we are proud to be showcasing delicious Japanese food in the UK.
Many have served these tasty dishes before us, and we thought we would create this article to run through how our favourite Japanese dishes ended up on UK shores.
While loved by many throughout Asia for centuries, the adoption in this part of the world came much later.
Since then, Japanese food has crafted it’s own space in the global gastronomy scene, with exports such as sushi becoming commonplace in many restaurants and shops throughout the country.
Sushi rolls and ramen bowls are now household names, and we’re going to tell you how this happened.
The Introduction of Japanese Food in London
Let’s start at the beginning.
It wasn’t until the late 19th century that Japan really entered the global cuisine stage.
As world travel became more common and the prospect of different ideas and inspirations being passed from country to country was more easily available, one of the key things that travelled were new recipes and ingredients.
Food began to be seen in different ways, as exciting flavours and new ways of preparing it came to light, including from Asia.
At this time, businessmen travelled and showcased their native cuisine, and before long Japanese food was eaten, albeit rarely.
It wasn’t until 1972 when the first Japanese restaurant was opened. This was Hiroko on Bond Street, and people flocked to try these colourful and vibrant dishes.
The earliest Japanese restaurants that followed were small, exclusive eateries, catering to a target audience of adventurous eaters and, like Noya London is in modern times, focused on providing the full experience of authentic Asian cuisine.
The Emergence of Sushi
One of the main exports which grew the popularity of Japanese food was sushi.
It was around the time of the initial restaurant openings when it truly made its mark on London’s culinary map.
As global cuisine was growing in popularity, sushi began to appear more and more, with it first being seen at corporate events as the perfect party food.
It wasn’t until the early 1990s when the famous sushi bars we see today emerged, and the opening of Moshi Moshi is seen by many as the first revolving belt establishment that we see so many of today.
These restaurants showcased sushi as more than just a food choice, but a dining experience. From watching the dishes roll by, to using exciting dips and embracing the healthy ingredients, Londoners were hooked, and it wasn’t long before sushi quickly grew in popularity.
Japanese Food Hits the Mainstream
As more and more people tried Japanese cuisine, its fanbase in London began to grow.
It wasn’t just sushi being served now, but tempura, ramen, and many more exciting dishes. Japanese grills started to appear, and sashimi burst onto the scene serving up delicious seafood and meats in elegant ways.
The Japanese dining experience appealed to a UK audience. It was more casual than most settings, and the tapas style of serving provided lots of different flavours and textures that were ideal for enjoying throughout a night.
While initially it was seen as a luxury, by the early 2000s it was firmly in the mainstream, and Japanese food had become one of London’s favourite meals.
Asian food has always been loved in the UK, and Pan Asian restaurants, such as Noya London, provided a way of sampling many different flavours and preparations in one sitting.
We continue to push the boundaries when it comes to taste and texture, and love playing our part in the adoption of Japanese cuisine in London.
The Impact of Japanese Food on London’s Culinary Culture
With Japanese food, came the culture.
This had a profound effect on London’s culinary scene. From new ingredients such as miso and macha, to the focus on presentation and decoration, the arrival of these dishes changed many things.
The way seasoning and flavour was thought upon was highly affected by Japanese food, and methods of preparing staple items such as rice took on a whole new light.
Noya London
From the emergence of delicious Japanese dishes, to the modern day when it holds a high status in the culinary scene of London, Japanese food has grabbed a foothold on UK shores.
While the establishments may change, the traditions that make this food what it is stay the same.
Here at Noya London, we serve up authentic Japanese dishes in exciting ways. Whether you want to try some classic sushi or sample your favourite meat on a robata grill, we have the perfect dish to give you a taste of Japan.
We have evolved from the traditional Japanese restaurants that first opened decades ago, now providing an experience that can last the whole night, with delicious cocktails and our shisha lounge in North London to provide everything you need for hours of entertainment.
Want to try it for yourself? Then get in touch today to book a table.