Kanpai

Sake Delight: London's Coziest Sake Haven

Hidden away along London's vibrant alcohol trail—fondly huddled under those mile-long Bermondsey arches—lies Kanpai London Sake Brewery, a shrine to Japan’s cherished rice elixir reimagined with British flair. Embracing its status as the UK’s first sake brewery, Kanpai offers an offbeat yet intimate experience that aligns exceptionally well with the buzzing fabric of its urban refuge. You're drawn in by the modern izakaya vibe—a relaxed, snug setting where sake flows as freely as conversation. As a setting reminiscent of alcoves you might stumble upon throughout Tokyo, it thrums with subtle rhythm and gently encourages patrons to unwind over expertly crafted potables and tantalizing bites.

The brilliant advantage of Kanpai, aside from their holy grail of brews, is undeniably their commendable team—people fervently invested in translating liquid intricacies into accessible delights for novices and sommeliers alike. Here, discovery isn't just invited, it’s effortlessly facilitated. The passionate guides take guests through a bewitching tasting odyssey, one led by charismatic staples such as Luis and Mizuki, whose adept direction translates alcohol content into art. Pair your exploration with bites like the reverentially famed chicken katsu or match it with the lovingly curated cauliflower tempura, and you'll find yourself met, once again, at a junction between diversity and delight. Whether a seasoned sake savorer or adventurous tippler, Kanpai extends an open invitation to an imaginative and nurturing experience sure to complement any boozy London escapade. — Audrey Al Dente