Ukiyo Handroll Bar

The glass walls at this temaki bar in Covent Garden mean that nothing is hidden at Ukiyo’s bright wrap-around counter. The eyes of passersby burn into your back as you’re passed hefty toro temaki while they watch on. Everything is on show—including the chef cracking giant king crab claws for the California hand roll, blowtorching meaty salmon before placing it on top of warm, vinegared rice, and squeezing perfect little blobs of spicy mayo onto glistening hotate. 

video credit: Rianne Shlebak

video credit: Rianne Shlebak

video credit: Rianne Shlebak

Whether it’s busy or you’re one of three people sitting at the counter, the calm—sometimes stiff atmosphere—remains the same. It’s a place where conversations are quiet, so coming in a group isn’t recommended, especially a group with a friend who’s never been told to keep it down. But when you just want a quiet one-on-one sushi date or a speedy solo meal, Ukiyo is perfect. Pop in for a set menu of six hand rolls for £45 and be on your way out in less than an hour. It’s a pretty great deal in central, especially when the sushi is this good. We prefer to go for the a la carte though, so we don’t miss out on the excellent toro uni, which is one of our favourites.

Food Rundown

photo credit: Rianne Shlebak

Truffle Tuna Tartar

This excellent tuna tartar is built on a chunky smashed avocado foundation, and topped with a creamy truffle mayo type sauce, and a bright yellow yolk in the middle. It’s creamy, it’s refreshing, and it’s the right way to start a meal here.

video credit: Rianne Shlebak

King Crab California Temaki

The most expensive hand roll on the menu, this is a California roll but with fresh crab. It’s light, tastes like the sea, and reminds us of summer in the best way possible.

photo credit: Rianne Shlebak

Spicy Scallops Temaki

Our favourite flavour combination of all the rolls is this scallop temaki. The fish dissolves in your mouth like a Skip and the thick spicy mayo just adds to the creamy texture.

Toro Uni Temaki

Another top-hitter, the toro is rich and buttery, while the uni is sweet with a custard-like texture. Get this hand roll.