Junsei – Authentic Japenese in Marylebone – Review

For those seeking a truly authentic yakitori experience in London, look no further than Junsei. Nestled in Seymore Street, the Junsei philosophy is pure, simple food, to be enjoyed and shared.

The menu consists of delicious small plate platters prepared in an open kitchen, allowing diners to experience the sensory journey of yakitori. This traditional style of cooking respects and enhances every part of the chicken, with a zero-waste approach, every part of the meat is used and grilled over white-hot binchotan charcoal for an incredible depth of flavour. When we visited, we were inspired to see that most of the patrons were Japanese, denoting the level of authenticity in the cuisine.

The restaurant staff are open to adapting dishes for allergies and intolerances, they had no problem removing onions for me and gluten for my friend. Along with many vegetable dishes, the menu is based on using every part of the chicken, so you will see gizzard, thigh and liver listed as ingredients, all of which are used in traditional yakitori. We decided to take the plunge and do as the Japanese do, we tested the crispy chicken skin chips, thigh, wing and grilled chicken skin as well as their unique vegetable dishes, and of course some delicious warm sake. Junsei has an extensive sake menu and a comprehensive list of Japanese whiskies for those who want to indulge in complimentary warming liqueurs.

Dishes come piping hot and direct from the grill. Starting with the crispy chicken skin chips, which are precisely that, incredibly crispy and light, if you enjoy your roast chicken skin you will enjoy these very much.

Next, our attentive and knowledgeable waiter bought us a selection of small plates, kushiyaki okra with katsuobushi shoyu dressing, courgette, and Padron peppers, alongside yakitori chicken skins, thigh and wings. All of which were delicious, clean and healthy. The type of Japanese oak charcoal used is the purest in the world, a quality which is evident in its unique flavour.

The grilled lettuce on a bed of whipped tofu, has a creamy miso flavour and a velvety texture. Our hero dish though was the lobster salad with caviar mayo, so refreshing and sweet, a great balancer to the more salty notes of the yakitori.

To finish off we delved into the world of Japanese desserts, smoked chocolate mousse with plum liqueur, the dish lives up to its smoky name, very unusual and not too sweet. The seasonal granita was a great palate cleanser and came presented on tasting spoons, icy and sweet in just the right portion.

We left feeling full and satisfied. The overall experience is one of authenticity, the use of charcoal and warming spices, miso and soy allows diners to access the true taste of Japan.

Address: 132 Seymour Place, London, W1H1NS

Website: https://junsei.co.uk

Words and photos by Claire Bloom