2/11/2016 - updated with extended soft launch info.
There's always a lot of excitement when a new Tonkotsu opens, but now the people behind it, Emma Reynolds and Kensuke Yamada, are coming up with something brand new. They're opening Anzu in the new St James development and they're describing it as a Japanese brasserie - "good food and amazing service in fine but relaxed surroundings" .
It's definitely a bit of a change from Tonkotsu - that's an artist rendition above - and there will be a different kind of menu too. The main event is the daily teishoku set lunch - steamed rice, pickles and miso soup with a choice of a few main courses including miso cured salmon, wagyu, katsu or tempura. As Emma puts it "Teishoku is massive in Japan".
But that's not all - as there's a la carte too, including:
- King Crab gyoza
- Black cod teriyaki
- Wagyu fillet steak with butter sauce
- Double stock tsukemen ramen
- Takitomi rice
The restaurant is being designed by Blenheim design - and you can expect Japanese wood and stone - which is a nod to contemporary Tokyo interior design. And running things at the front of house is veteran maître‘d - known for St John and more - Thomas Blythe. As for booze, expect range of wines and cocktails alongside Japanese beers and whiskies.
Anzu opens 3 November 2016 at St James' Market. The soft launch has been extended and will now run from Monday 7th to Wednesday 9th November for lunch from 12-2.45 pm and dinner from 6-10pm - 50% off food at lunch and dinner. To book, head to their website. Keep up with their news on Twitter @anzurestaurant
