24/4/24 - updated with opening details
The (nearly) last piece of the puzzle that is The OWO is coming into place. The prime spot in the refurbished Old War Office, the rooftop, is being taken up by top chef Endo Kazutoshi, who will be opening Kioku by Endo there.
Kioku, is the Japanese word for memory. The restaurant, Endo says, "will combine all the important memories that I have together in one place [and is] a reflection of my life and the passion I developed throughout my travels in Yokohama, Tokyo and Spain in particular." The menu will be Japanese with a hint of the Med with dishes including cuttlefish nori pesto and elderflower, chashu pork ramen ravioli and native lobster with fregola.
What's more, the chef apparently has a bespoke tuna trolley for a tableside "tuna experience". We'll have to wait to see just what that means.
This is going to be a restaurant with unbeatable views over Westminster and Whitehall. And they're making the most of that view with as many seats outside on the terrace as there will be indoors. Expect a lot of interest too in the eight-seater private dining room which is housed inside one of the building's turrets.
Back down on terra firma, Endo's ground-floor sake bar also sounds worth a visit. That's a much smaller venture with 25 seats and a drinks list put together by Sake Samurai Natsuki Kikuya. The vibes will be immaculate with the bar's record player playing music selected by guests in the bar each night.
More about Kioku By Endo
Where is it? The OWO, 7 Horse Guards Ave, London SW1A 2EX
When does it open? The restaurant opens on 15 May 2024 (Kioku bar is open now)
Find out more: Visit their website or follow them on Instagram @kiokubyendo
Subscribe to be the first to get the news from Hot Dinners
