Wagyu Yakiniku Ushio Opens in London: A New Omakase Experience

Wagyu Yakiniku Ushio, the first European outpost of a Fukuoka-based restaurant, has opened at 12 Charlotte Street in London's Fitzrovia. The dinner-only venue introduces multi-course menus of wagyu beef, specializing in akami (lean) wagyu rather than heavily marbled cuts. Almost all meat is imported from Japan, along with chefs and ceramics, ensuring authentic quality. The interiors replicate the Fukuoka original, with an L-shaped counter as the focal point. Chef-owner Hakusei Chin emphasizes minimalism and natural materials like wood, stone, and plaster, letting ingredients and skill speak for themselves. Ceramics from Kyushu, including Ko-Imari porcelain and modern Lin ware, adorn the space, with handmade vases by ceramicist Taeko Kajihara. The menu includes A5 wagyu omakase, a six-piece tasting, and à la carte options. Each course arrives with a card indicating the cut on a cow illustration. Dishes include top blade sashimi-style, tongue, tenderloin, kurimi, and sirloin with sukiyaki marinade. The restaurant claims this leaner beef is higher in protein and lower in fat. For those still hungry, a Fukuoka-style wagyu curry is available. The restaurant is reviewed by Ben McCormack, a London-based restaurant journalist.