wagamama wigmore street

Friendly Service and Savory Asian Dishes

A recent jaunt to Wagamama showcased a curious blend of chaos and charm, much akin to a dysfunctional family reunion that you can't help but attend every year. Upon entering, it’s clear that the devil may not wear Prada, but the evidence suggests he’s taken up dressing this establishment in his spare time. Tired decor and reluctant staff abound, all presided over by the unapologetically utilitarian QR code system designed, one assumes, to merely frustrate rather than streamline. If walls could talk, they might yawn wistfully while imparting tales of better days – ones where tables were cleaned promptly and Bao Buns arrived warm. Yet even amidst this picturesque pandemonium, the food held its ground. The chili chicken ramen danced like a gaudy firework across the palate, full of audacity and spice – an undeniable treasure amid the wreckage.

Unquestionably, the culinary artistry shimmers through the dust-strewn veil of inconsistent service. I tip my hat to our beguiling server George, who carried us— with mirth and mercy— through a perilous dining experience replete with errant starters and forgotten side dishes. As anticipated, menu stalwarts like the beef donburi and brisket buns performed admirably. Despite the occasional dive bomb from dishes vying for mediocrity, there's an honest thrill in seeing a classic like the fiery hot pot come out swinging. Turning a blind eye to management's unnerving detachment toward sanitation—a sprinkling of irony here isn’t just optional, it’s required—this branch proves more resilient than first casualty reports suggested. The great alchemy of a friendly waiter and flavorsome cuisine ensures that while Wagamama on a whole may incite some hesitations, it still manages to have you traipsing back for more plot twists every now and then. — Penelope Savory