Inside The Fuji Grill at Beaverbrook Town House

Ina Yulo Steve visits one of London’s top Japanese restaurants, The Fuji Grill at Beaverbrook Town House

The Fuji Grill at Beaverbrook Town House: Everything You Need To Know

Japanese gastronomy is known for its minimalist nature with a solemn, almost ceremonial vibe to the whole experience, but that’s not what you’ll find at The Fuji Grill. Set within the eclectic yet refined Beaverbrook Town House, the restaurant thrums with conversation as glasses clink together and a plate of corn ribs smothered in garlic yuzu butter is passed around a table. All this conviviality seems to be sparked by the recently-launched menu concept: tapasu – a new approach to traditional Japanese dining that embraces the interactive spirit of tapas culture. 

The menu features mostly small plates and some larger dishes served family-style, all of which ignites a jovial, social energy amongst diners. While you’ll find Japanese favourites like tempura, sukiyaki, and sushi, each has its own signature Fuji Grill spin on it. The snacks and appetisers arrive and it’s a celebration of textures and colours as we dip crunchy fish skin into Japanese tartar and devour a stunning plate of yellowtail presented thinly-sliced, usuzukuri-style.

(c) Olly Hunter

Notably, The Fuji Grill prides itself on serving pregnancy-safe sushi and sashimi – frozen at precise temperatures to neutralise any bad bacteria – though alternative options are also available for diners who are expecting. More small plates come in the form of traditional Chinese shumai dumplings, which are stuffed with confit duck and served with a Japanese umeboshi plum sauce. One of the tastiest dishes of the evening comes in the form of an unassuming spinach salad with a nutty miso dressing. A portion of the menu is dedicated to finger food like hand-rolled temaki and skewers fresh from the robata grill – we dive into rolls of southern fried lobster and wagyu sukiyaki along with blue prawn kushiyaki skewers flavoured with lime and chilli butter. A bowl of mushroom gohan gets passed around, the lime bringing a welcome pop of acidity to the warm, umami wild mushroom mix.

As part of the relaunch, the hotel’s Sir Frank’s Bar has concocted a slew of cocktails infused with Japanese ingredients, but there’s also an extensive offering of sakes and Japanese whisky. Another new addition is the Japanese patisserie. We sample a selection of decadent treats – arriving via bento box – to end our meal: a fluffy slide of honey yuzu cheesecake, miso rice pudding, and a decadent chocolate fondant.

The Lowdown

What Is Tapasu?

Tapasu is a new take on Japanese dining inspired by the small plates menus popularised by Spanish tapas restaurants.

Where Is The Fuji Grill Located?

The Fuji Grill is located inside the Beaverbook Town House, a stone’s throw away from Sloane Square.

What’s New At The Fuji Grill?

In addition to the new tapasu offering, there’s now a Japanese patisserie offering sweet treats and a slew of new Japanese-inspired cocktails at Sir Frank’s Bar.

What’s The Price Range?

Snacks start at £6 with larger dishes averaging £14-16. 

Do They Welcome Walk-Ins?

Yes, while priority is given to hotel guests, the restaurant takes advanced bookings and reserves tables for walk-ins too. 

Is It Pet-Friendly?

Unfortunately, pets are not allowed at the Beaverbrook Town House. However, they are permitted at the hotel’s sister property in Surrey, Beaverbrook.

Do They Serve Vegan And Gluten-Free Options?

Yes, the restaurant caters to both vegan and gluten-free diets.

115-116, Beaverbrook Town House, Sloane St, London SW16 9PJ, book your table at beaverbrooktownhouse.co.uk