'I think I've found some of the best sushi in London and you should try it too'
I had the absolute pleasure of dining at Kaia Japanese Restaurant at The Ned recently, and I'm still thinking about the experience days later.
From the moment my boyfriend and I arrived, everything about the experience felt special, starting with the warm and welcoming service.
In particular, Ludo looked after us with such genuine care and attentiveness — she struck that perfect balance of being present without ever hovering, offering thoughtful recommendations and detailed insights into each dish that really elevated the meal.
The food? Honestly, some of the best sushi and fish I've ever had, and I mean it.
(Image: Immy Share, Newsquest)Everything was impeccably fresh, beautifully presented, and bursting with flavour.
We started with the salmon and avocado roll, which was perfectly balanced — rich and buttery from the avocado, with a zing of brightness from the lime mayo that really brought it to life.
It was the kind of dish you want to order twice, and maybe even three times if you're not careful.
It came on a movie-like platter with the sashimi three ways - tuna, salmon, and seabass.
Each slice was expertly cut and just melted in the mouth. The quality of the fish was exceptional, and you could tell it had been sourced and handled with real attention to detail.
(Image: Immy Share, Newsquest) You could tell it was more of a fatty tuna, which is my absolute favourite, and means each piece is thick and succulent too.
Alongside that, we tried the Kaia tartare, which was a standout.
A fusion of textures and flavours that somehow managed to be both delicate and bold at the same time, again including salmon, tuna, seabass and avocado all mixed into one.
We paired our sushi starter board with a Jasmine Bloom cocktail each from the new Sakura Season menu.
It was sweet, but not too much, and was refreshing with a hint of jasmine, citrus and passion fruit.
The salmon poke bowl was hearty and satisfying, packed with vibrant, fresh ingredients and layered flavours that felt both wholesome and indulgent.
(Image: Immy Share, Newsquest)The colours #were bright, the presentation was impeccable, and every single flavour complimented each other.
If it weren't for me being full, I'd have wanted to order another.
My boyfriend finished with the lamb chops, which were cooked to absolute perfection — juicy, tender, and seasoned just right.
While Kaia is known for its sushi, this dish proved the kitchen's versatility and depth, and the menu is incredibly versatile with other hot dishes such as miso black cod and salmon teriyaki – two things which I found it difficult to resist.
I was full but resisting a chocolate mousse is not something I am capable of, and I'm glad I didn't.
(Image: Immy Share, Newsquest) Rich, but not too rich, moist, and chocolatey, I'm still dreaming of having that again.
Kaia sits next to The Ned Sunday Feast, another absolute MUST to go on your London eats list.
Kaia isn't just another Japanese restaurant - it's an experience – and even the setting is beautiful with high counter long tables or round tables near to the chef for a more immersive feel.
A place where the service, atmosphere, and food come together to create something truly special.
Whether you're a sushi connoisseur or just someone looking for a beautiful night out, I can't recommend it highly enough. I'll absolutely be back, and soon.
(Image: The Ned) Kaia is welcoming the beauty of cherry blossoms for the annual Sakura Season, featuring a faux stained-glass installation by renowned artist Hiroko Imada, cocktails which celebrate Japanese artistry and nature using House of Suntory spirits and a special dessert crafted by Executive Pastry Chef Darian Smidt.
These seasonal specials will be served in Kaia until June 29.
Jack Cohn, F&B Director of The Ned, said: "For the first time in over 100 years, our windows are the centre of attention for Cherry Blossom season. The faux stained-glass installation will fill the atrium of Kaia with a beautiful light, bringing to life one of the most cherished seasons in Japanese culture.
"We invite our guests to bask in the creative artistry while enjoying expertly crafted drinks featuring The House of Suntory spirits and a dessert inspired by the season.".'
Kaia
An Asian-Pacific-inspired restaurant specialising in healthy food, with poke bowls and mains from the grill served over the counter. Expect an open kitchen and bar seating.
Opening Hours
Monday – Friday: midday – midnight Saturday: midday - 3pm, 5pm – midnight Sunday: Closed The last kitchen order is at 10:45pm.
Bookings + 44 (0)20 3828 2000
restaurants@thened.com
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