Okasan Sushi

In the bustling chaos of Portobello Road, tucked away amongst the jostling throng of market-goers and souvenir seekers, sits an unassuming gem that radiates warmth akin to a hug for your taste buds. From the moment I walked past its uninviting exterior, curiosity compelled me to cross its threshold—and what a delightful revelation awaited! This charming family-run establishment doesn’t rely on pomp or spectacle; instead, it lets its splendid sushi and wholesome ramen do all the talking. Each dish brims with fresh ingredients: rice that's tender, fish that’s pristinely fresh, and broth that feels home-spun. While the avocados and peppers in the vegetable tempura may have struck me as unusual bedfellows, they somehow work with grace, defying convention yet satisfying the appetite splendidly.

The attentive staff were all kindness personified—even a youthful assistant added a cherished layer of charm by handing us the bill—ensuring service that brimmed with sincerity and heart. Perhaps it's not the most authentic rendition of chirashi or ramen, with roots more inspired than traditional, but allure lies in such unpredictability when every spoonful and every slice is so gratifying. Dine inside and bask in the cozy calm of its intimate atmosphere, perfect after a taxing morning navigating market stalls. Whether sequestered within or relishing a spot outdoors under the London skies, every plate promises a marriage of quality and quantity and at a gentle price point—a sanctuary hidden amidst a treasure trove of tastings.