Dragon questers! Japan Centre London has teamed up with popular Japanese role play game, Dragon Quest to host a pop-up with special Slime-themed menu.
Japan Centre x Dragon Quest
Photo: Urban Adventurer
The Japan Centre x Dragon Quest collab is revolving around the game’s iconic slime characters.
The collab includes a special Slime-themed menu, so if you ever wondered what a slime would taste like, here’s your chance to find out.
The Menu
Photo: Urban Adventurer
The special menu includes Slime Bubble Lemonade (£4.50), Seaslime Mochi Donut (£4), Shell Slime Adzuki Matcha Shaved Ice (£4.75) and She-slime Lava Mountain Curry (Karaage £10.45 or Pumpkin Croquettes £9.95).
The menu items are available to purchase either on their own or as a meal deal.
There are two types of Dragon Quest meal deal available:
Photo: Urban Adventurer
Slime Meal Deal (£7.50) includes a Slime Bubble Lemonade and a Seaslime Mochi Donut. This one is available at both Japan Centre, Leicester Square and Ichiba London.
Photo: Urban Adventurer
Dragon Quest Meal Deal (£16.50) includes a Slime Bubble Lemonade, She-slime Lava Mountain Curry (with Karaage or pumpkin croquettes) and a Seaslime Mochi Donut. This one is only available at Ichiba London.
Photo: Urban Adventurer
Plus, you’ll get a FREE Slime sticker sheet when you purchase any meal deal.
To help you immerse into the Dragon Quest world, there are decorations and cut-outs all over the shops to take selfie with.
Japan Centre x Dragon Quest Competition
Photo: Urban Adventurer
Post your best selfie at the Dragon Quest pop-up (either at Japan Centre or Ichiba) and win Dragon Quest I & II HD-2D Remake STANDARD EDITION Digital!
All you have to do is share your selfie on your channel and follow and tag @japancentre and @dragonquest. 5 winners will be randomly selected.
Ready for your next adventure? Whilst you’re at Westfield White City, why not visit the UK’s first Nintendo pop-up store? It’s located on the ground floor opposite the LEGO Store.
[BLOG POST IN BIO] This Japanese restaurant sells Totoro and Miffy pastry 🌱🐰🥐 @Mitsuba三葉 If you’re a fan of My Neighbour Totoro or the iconic bunny, Miffy or simply love spending your time at a relaxed restaurant and read manga, Mitsuba is a must-visit 🍵 Mitsuba is a traditional Japanese Restaurant with a modern twist 🥢 It’s the only place in London where you can get Totoro and Miffy-shaped bread. They are freshly baked and available from around 1pm from Friday to Monday 🌱🐰🥐 Traditional Japanese breakfast and bento boxes are also available 🍱🥢 Plus, there is a manga self you can take any manga from and read it while in the restaurant 📖 📍Mitsuba | 92 North End Rd, London W14 9EX 🕰️ Mon – Thu: 9:30am – 6pm Fri – Sun: 9am – 6pm #japanesefood#totoro#miffy#japaneserestaurant#studioghibli
If you’re a fan of My Neighbour Totoro or the iconic bunny, Miffy or simply love spending your time at a relaxed cafés and read manga, Mitsuba is a must-visit.
Mitsuba is a traditional Japanese Restaurant with a modern twist.
Photo: Urban Adventurer
It’s the only place in London where you can get Totoro and Miffy-shaped bread. They are freshly baked and available from around 1pm from Friday to Monday.
Photo: Urban Adventurer
They are both made of fluffy sweet bread and the Totoro pastry is filled with delicious, sweet red bean paste while the Miffy head is filled with the same red bean paste, plus sweet and chewy mochi.
Lunch Bento Boxes
Bento box for lunch? Yes, please!
Mitsuba offers wide range of delicious Japanese-style bento boxes, including vegan and vegetarian options.
Each bento box has a balanced selection of food inside: one protein, one or two veggies of the day and white rice or furikake seasoned onigiri rice balls to support healthy balanced diet and provide all the nutrition your body needs.
From beef to teriyaki chicken to Miso salmon to tofu, everybody can find something they like and suitable for their diet.
Brunch Menu
Tokyo Salmon Breakfast
Photo: Urban Adventurer
The brunch menu is available all day from 9am to 5:30pm.
Each food on the menu is super healthy and made using home-style cooking method, meaning they’re full of flavour and taste just like in a restaurant in Japan.
The brunch menu includes Nagoya Onigiri set which comes with unlimited Miso soup, Kyoto Breakfast which contains all the nutrition your body needs to start the day: grilled Salmon, tamago egg, onigiri rice balls and vegetables.
Egg Royal is toasted Shokupan (Japanese milk bread) with two eggs of your choice, smoked Salmon and fresh salad.
Check out Mitsuba’s brunch menu and lunch bento menu here.
We tried the Tokyo Salmon Breakfast which is a traditional Japanese brunch and comes with a 100g grilled salmon, two onigiri rice balls, a boiled egg, Miso soup with seaweed and tofu, vegetables and Matcha mochi.
Drinks Menu
Photo: Urban Adventurer
Mitsuba offers a wide range of Matcha drinks, including the Insta-worthy Iced Levander Matcha Latte and Coconut Cream Latte.
Bubble tea and other hot and cold drinks also available.
Other Desserts
Photo: Urban Adventurer
All desserts are made in house by Mitsuba’s pastry chef to make sure you get the freshest and most delicious cakes every day.
If you love anime and manga, you will surely recognise the iconic Strawberry Cake with juicy fresh strawberry slices visible in each layer.
Matcha Basque Cheesecake is also a very popular choice by customers at Mitsuba because the cake is made with premium Matcha powder. It’s not just delicious, but super TikTokable and good for your health.
Yuzu Basque Cheesecake is made with real Japanese Yuzu juice, so if you want to try something very authentic that Japanese people love, Yuzu cheesecake is definitely a choice.
Please, take off your shoes
Photo: Urban Adventurer
If you really want to feel like you were in Japan, try the traditional Japanese seating area with tatami.
As this is a very traditional seating area, customers are encouraged to take off their shoes before entering. That’s not just a kind bow to Japanese traditions but it also can make your dining experience more authentic and special.
Free-to-Read Manga
Photo: Urban Adventurer
There is even a small shelf full of the most different manga titles.
Customers are free to pick any of them to read while at the restaurant.
When is the best time to get the Totoro and Miffy pastry?
The Totoro and Miffy bread are freshly made around 1pm from Friday to Monday.
They are very poplar and often sell out quickly, so make sure you arrive around 1pm to avoid disappointment.
Ready for your next adventure? If you’re a fan of Japanese culture and history, Japan House London is a must-visit. Their new exhibition: ‘Pictograms: Iconic Japanese Designs’ is completely free to visit. Plus, Japan House has a lovely café and shop selling special Japanese sweets, Matcha drinks and high-quality gifts straight from Japan. Japan House London is only a 16-minute journey from Mitsuba by bus.
Thanks to their adorable jelly bunny dessert, pretty interior and gorgeous presentation of their food and drinks, London’s new Japanese bakery, Tokyo Bagel London, has quickly become a social media sensation.
Located just a few minutes walk from Waterloo station, Tokyo Bagel London is a small, independent artisanal Japanese bakery.
They opened in December 2024 and are serving a variety of Japanese cakes, pastries, bread and premium teas and coffees.
Be prepared for a super friendly service with smiley staff who will make sure everything goes perfect during your visit.
The Interior
Photo: Urban Adventurer
The interior at Tokyo Bagel London is every content creator’s dream.
There are huge flower walls stretching up to the ceiling on both sides of the customer area, so no matter where you sit, you’re guaranteed to have the prettiest backdrop for your Insta photos.
Even the ceiling is decorated with flower garlands. Beautiful flower-shaped chandeliers make sure you have enough light for your photos.
Photo: Urban Adventurer
The comfortable light pink velvet chairs and matching pink cushions add to the inviting atmosphere.
The place is not too big but still have enough seats to accommodate around 20-30 people and has a high end friendly atmosphere.
Food Menu
Photo: Urban Adventurer
Bagel sandos, special stuffed bagels, French toasts, and Japanese desserts and pastry are all on the menu.
They have the viral triangular-shaped chocolate hazelnut filled croissant and Matcha chocolate flat croissant available along with matcha strawberry vanilla crown, crepe cake (Matcha, mango and Oreo flavours), and of course the TikTok famous jelly bunny (in two different colours and flavours) and even the most adorable jelly capybara.
The Viral Jelly Bunny and Jelly Capybara
Photo: Urban Adventurer
Most content creators visit Tokyo Bagel to try the cute wobbly jelly bunny. The bunny is super cute and wobbly and available in two different colours and flavours: white with coconut flavour and pink with strawberry flavour.
Photo: Urban Adventurer
Tokyo Bagel, however, has taken a step further. They also sell kawaii chubby chocolate jelly capybara.
The jelly desserts are £4.95 each, super fun to eat and very flavourful but not too sweet.
Drinks Menu
Photo: Urban Adventurer
Tokyo Bagel’s signature coffees include Matcha Bliss Latte, Sesame Velvet Brew, Chestnut Whisper Latte, Einspänner (Espresso, hazelnut syrup, cocoa powder, salted vanilla cream), and London Fog (English Breakfast tea, vanilla syrup, salted vanilla cream and cocoa powder).
Their Japanese beverages include Matcha Latte, Black Sesame Latte, Hojicha Latte, Yuzu Tea and ginger lemon tea. Classic hot coffees and hot chocolate are also available.
All the premium teas and coffees are served in stylish crockery to complement the beautiful Japanese dessert creations and give you the best chance to take beautiful photos for your Insta.
Ready for your next adventure? If you love Japanese cuisine and culture, you have to visit NOYA London.NOYA London is a hidden restaurant in North London and is inspired by a fictional Geisha warrior with super powers.
Located in North London, just a 5 minutes walk from Turnpike Lane station, NOYA London is a true hidden gem. This Pan-Asian restaurant is inspired by a fictional Geisha warrior, offering luxurious dining experience that tells a story of tradition and creativity.
⚠️Hidden gem alert ⚠️ 🪭[BLOG POST IN BIO] This Pan-Asian restaurant is inspired by a fictional Geisha warrior, called Noya – @Noya 🪭🗡️ Born with supernatural powers, NOYA was entrusted to use her powers and warrior heart to protect the culinary secrets of her mythical people: the Kumaso 🍣🥢 NOYA London is sharing the great Geisha warrior’s spirit and determination to protect traditions and flavours. The restaurant is inviting its guests for a culinary journey to the feudal Japan where NOYA was born, trained and fought her battles #asianfoodlover#panasianfood#asiancuisine#japanesefood#japaneseculture#geisha#japanesecuisine#hiddengem#CapCut
Legend has it that somewhere in Japan once lived a warrior Geisha, named NOYA. Born with supernatural powers, NOYA was entrusted to use her powers and warrior heart to protect the culinary secrets of her mythical people, the Kumaso.
NOYA was taught by Japan’s first samurai, Taira No Masakado to become the fierce guardian of the secrets of the Kumaso, and a formidable adversary to anyone who foolhardy try to uncover the mystery of the gastronomical arts of the Kumaso people.
NOYA had battles throughout centuries Far and wide to protect the delectable secret of her people, until she finally found solace within her Fortress of wonders where she’s been living since.
NOYA London is sharing the great Geisha warrior’s spirit and determination to protect the traditions and flavours.
NOYA London is serving dishes inspired by the traditional Japanese cuisine and exquisite Asian-inspired drinks. The restaurant is inviting its guests for a culinary journey to the feudal Japan where NOYA was born, trained and fought her battles.
NOYA London – Elegance and Tradition
Photo: Urban Adventurer
Upon arrival an elegant round door greets visitors. At the reception two full samurai armours and wagasa (traditional Japanese umbrellas) provide stylish background for your first selfie.
Photo: Urban Adventurer
Inside the restaurant samurai-clad servers seat you under huge paintings of Geisha and Samurai.
Photo: Urban Adventurer
Elegant flower arrangements of roses and Orchids run around the centre area of the dining room. Round mirrors with golden frames reflect back the golden light that delicately illuminate the room.
You will be seated in comfortable plush chairs or canapé at tables look like large mirrors with golden rims.
Photo: Urban Adventurer
The entrance to the kitchen is adorned with a huge painting of a torii gate.
Photo: Urban Adventurer
In the next room guest can enjoy live DJs at the weekends or watch live sports while enjoying shisha pipes under the wagasa-shaped lamps.
Culinary Journey from Japanese Sushi to Korean Barbecue
Photo: Urban Adventurer
Being a Pan-Asian restaurant, NOYA London cannot settle for just one country. Although, the menu is heavily inspired by traditional Japanese cuisine, NOYA is offering the diverse and rich taste of all the different Asian countries.
What is a Pan-Asian restaurant?
While an Asian restaurant is focusing on the cuisine of a certain country or style, Pan-Asian restaurants are a fusion of all the Asian countries. The dishes are crafted and served using different methods, styles and ingredients from the most different locations with the aim to create innovative dishes and inventive flavour combinations never existed before while harmonising the flavours and respecting their origins.
Photo: Urban Adventurer
NOYA London’s main menu includes sushi, Robata grill, sharing platters as well as side dishes.
NOYA Maki Specials are the perfect example of a Pan-Asian restaurant’s menu. The ‘NOYA Special Lamb Maki’ for example, is a flavourful combination of Katsu Lamb, Korean glaze, sweet mayo and Aonori powder, while the ‘Crispy Crab Maki’ is an adventurous marriage of Japanese and Korean flavours.
The Robata Grill menu consists of the most diverse dishes and flavours. You will find Beef Noodle, Kushiyaki Chicken Skewers, Chicken Burger, Salt Dry Aged Rib-Eye Steak 250G, Vegetable Stir Fry Noodle and so much more.
Photo: Urban Adventurer
The extensive drinks selection includes fine wines, authentic Japanese Sake, and classic and signature cocktails to perfectly complement NOYA London’s Pan-Asian cuisine.
Alcohol-free beverages and Mocktails are also available.
Crave Something Closer to Home?
Photo: Urban Adventurer
If you prefer to enjoy the traditional UK cuisine instead, NOYA London is proud to offer their Sunday Roastmenu every Sunday from 12pm.
Choose from 100 day aged roast beef, roast lamb, roast chicken or the mix of any two. Choose your sides and dessert.
Kids eat for £1 which will be donated to a local charity!
Special Events at NOYA
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NOYA London regularly host special events throughout the week.
Ladies Night
Every Sunday with live entertainment, 2-4-1 cocktails & house wines and other special offers on dishes.
Bottomless Brunch
The last Saturday of every month. £49.50pp that includes a 2 course set menu, live entertainment and bottomless Prosecco/Non Secco, juice or beer for 1hr or 45mins.
Sakura Fridays
Every Friday. Guest DJs from 7pm onwards. R&B, UK hits, Amapiano, Afrobeat.
#MeetMeAtNOYA
Every Saturday. Guest DJs from 7pm onwards. R&B, UK hits, Amapiano, Afrobeat.
Sunday Roast
Every Sunday from 12pm – 6pm. Kids eat for £1 which will be donated to a local charity.
TIP: Special offers with huge savings are available on Groupon!
Ready for your next adventure? Love themed dining experiences? Big Mo’s Diner will travel you back in time to the glorious 1950s America. Sit in a shiny red Chevrolet, sip on thick milkshakes, or shove in a Crispy Buffalo Burger while listening to 50s music.
🌸 Sakura Season is here 🌸 [BLOG POST IN BIO] @Tombo Japanese Café just introduced their Sakura Season Specials The Sakura Season Specials includes 🌸Sakura Mont Blanc Sundae 🌸Sakura Matcha Latte 🌸Sakura Mochi 🌸Sakura Soft Serve in a Cone 📍 29 Thurloe Pl, South Kensington, London SW7 2HQ #sakuraseason#sakuraseason2025#sakura#japanesefood#springvibes#cherryblossom#CapCut
Sakura Season has arrived in London a bit early this year. Tombo Japanese Café – known for their Sanrio collaboration and cutest dessert creations – just introduced their Sakura Season Specials on their Instagram.
They introduced a very special Japanese dessert, called ‘Japanese Mont Blanc’ last November. ‘Mont Blanc’ is a super popular dessert in Japan (and just as Instagrammable). It is cream and chestnut purée which they press through a machine with small holes that makes it a spaghetti-like swirl that they use to garnish ice cream or cake.
Now, that Cherry Blossom Season is on the corner, they added a Sakura flavour to their existing flavours: matcha and purple potato.
The Sakura Season Specials consist of Sakura Mont Blanc Sundae, Sakura Matcha Latte, Sakura Mochi, and Sakura Soft Serve in a Cone.
Photo: Urban Adventurer
Sakura Mont Blanc Sundae is a pretty-in-pink dessert (almost) too pretty to eat. It’s matcha or Sakura soft serve (your choice) lying on a crispy rice cereal bed, served with freshly pressed Sakura chestnut purée, topped with tricolour mochi on a skewer.
Photo: Urban Adventurer
Sakura Matcha Latte is a picturesque pink and green ice latte, served with pink, white and green mochi on a skewer. Not too sweet, just perfect.
Sakura mochi is a pretty pink sweet rice cake, filled with red bean paste, wrapped in a pickled cherry blossom leaf.
Sakura Soft Serve is a perfect dessert on the go between two museums.
Ready for your next adventure? Did you know that there is a cat-themed Japanese restaurantin London? Nécco London is a cute intimate Japanese restaurant near Farringdon station, serving authentic Japanese food and drinks with a feline twist.
Are you a fan of Japanese cuisine and adore cats? This intimate Japanese restaurant in the heart of Exmouth Market have successfully brought the two together.
We are confident to say, Nécco is the cutest cat-themed Japanese restaurant in London.
Located half way between Farringdon and Angel station, Nécco is serving authentic Japanese food and drink with a twist.
The word ‘neko’ means ‘cat’ in Japanese language, and if you love cats, Nécco London is definitely a place to be.
The walls are covered with the cutest cat murals, providing the perfect background for your cute selfies.
Photo: Urban Adventurer
The menus are illustrated with adorable cat drawings, and they have vegan, gluten free and Halal options available.
The food menu includes delicious starters (there’s also a separate vegan starter menu), including dumplings, spring rolls and crispy Karage chicken, a wide selection of sushi, Ramen, Donburi, curry and more.
They even have Temaki hand-roll (sushi but wrapped in seaweed in a way to make a cone shape) and vegan sushi tacos.
Photo: Urban Adventurer
We tried the Miso Ramen, Salmon Nigiri, Avocado Maki and Avocado & Cucumber Uramaki.
The Ramen was served with seaweed, broccoli, edamame, corn, carrots and peeled cherry tomatoes. It was rich and flavourful.
The sushi was beautifully presented and full of flavour.
Photo: Urban Adventurer
On their drink menu you will find a wide range of premium sake, beer, wine, Shochu, Japanese Whisky, cocktails, mocktails, hot and cold drinks and more.
We tried the ‘Namicolada’ that was served in a mini fish bowl shaped glass placed on an ice bed. ‘Namicolada’ is a sweet and satisfying blend of Malibu, Vermouth, Oat milk, Pineapple juice & Nata de coco, and it was served with a cute little parasol.
Photo: Urban Adventurer
Nécco Happy Hour is from 5pm – 7pm daily and they have all day cocktail deals, too.
Photo: Urban Adventurer
They have the cutest dessert menu, so we couldn’t resist ordering something.
We chose the ‘Sakura Mochi’ which was a cherry blossom flavoured mochi filled with sweet red bean paste, wrapped in a leaf.
Nécco London Classes and Tasting Events
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Nécco London regularly host sushi making and dumpling making classes where you have the chance to learn all the ins and outs of sushi making from Nécco’s skilled sushi chef as well as the secrets of authentic Japanese dumpling making and different folding techniques.
During the Sake tasting event, you will have the opportunity to learn more about Japanese Sake, including ingredients, production, the different styles, and serving temperatures by an experienced Sake educator, Keiko Urakawa.
Learn more about the events and make an enquiry here.
Nécco London also offer Japanese catering for parties and office catering as well as private events.
Novelty Cakes
Fully customisable Japanese-style novelty cakes are also available to order.
Whether you’re a Studio Ghibli fan, a huge cat lover, a fan of everything kawaii or just want a rich and delicious Matcha cake, Nécco is a place to go. Just tell them what shape, colour, flavour and decoration you want, and they will make the cake of your dreams.
Fell in love with the plates, cute side bowls and stylish porcelain bowls during your visit?
You can order them directly from Nécco London’s official website.
Nécco London is a cute and cosy hidden gem in the heart of London combining authentic Japanese food and drink with their deep devotion to cats.
If you’re a cat lover or just looking for an intimate relaxing (and affordable) place to eat with your significant other or bestie, make sure you add Nécco London to your list.
Ready for your next adventure? If you’re a dog person, London’s first Shiba Inu café is definitely a place to visit in the heart of Fitzrovia. Meet the cutest Shiba Inu puppies, play with them and make memories.
For the first time in the UK, Japan House London is inviting its visitors for a mouth-watering journey to explore the intricate and vibrant world of Japanese food replicas.
We were invited for the press preview of the exhibition on the 30th September.
[BLOG POST IN BIO] ‘Looks Delicious! Exploring Japan’s Food Replica Culture’ at Japan House London 🍱🍝🍣🍙🍡 For the first time in the UK, Japan House London is inviting its visitors for a mouth-watering journey to explore the intricate and vibrant world of Japanese food replicas 🍢🎨 Japan House London has partnered with world-leading food replica manufacturer, Iwasaki Group, to give a rare and unique opportunity for visitors to take a glimpse into a century-old craft, unique to Japan🎨🍡🍣🍙 We were invited for the press preview of the exhibition on the 30th September 👀 📍Japan House London | 101-111 Kensington High St, London W8 5SA 📆 2 October 2024 – 16 February 2025 🕰️ Mon – Sat: 10:00–20:00 | Sundays & Bank Holidays: 12:00–18:00 🎟️ FREE | Booking encouraged #japanesefood#foodies#japaneseculture#japanhouselondon#japanese#japanesecandy#exhibition#londontiktok
Japan House London has partnered with world-leading food replica manufacturer, Iwasaki Group, to give a rare and unique opportunity for visitors to take a glimpse into a century-old craft, unique to Japan.
There are 47 replica foods on display specifically made for this exhibition alongside with videos, maps and detailed diagrams to showcase the intricate artistic process that brings these incredibly realistic food samples into life.
Visitors will also learn how hyper-realistic food models play an integral part of nutritional education and alternatives.
What are Replica Foods?
Simon Wright, Director of Programming, Japan House London leading an exhibition tour at the press preview
Photo: Urban Adventurer
Replica foods in Japan are believed to be invented in the 1920s when Western foods (‘yōshoku’) were began introduced to Japanese people.
Department stores in Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka and other cities began using food replicas to showcase their menu to their potential diners. The trend quickly became very popular throughout Japan, however, rarely seen outside of the country.
About Iwasaki Group
Iwasaki Tsuyoshi, Representative Director at Iwasaki Group
Photo: Urban Adventurer
For this exhibition, Japan House London have partnered with Japan’s largest food replica manufacturer, Iwasaki Group, to showcase the painstaking manufacturing process of these hyper-realistic foods, explore its history, the materials, and the future potentials of the craft.
The first display of replica food appeared in 1923 before Takizo Iwasaki founded his business nine years later, in 1932 in Osaka.
The exhibition showcases the reproduction of an omelette, founder, Takizo Iwasaki made in his kitchen in the 1930s. He successfully replicated the wrinkled surface of the omelette and named the replica ‘Kinen Omu’(Celebration Omelette).
Photo: Urban Adventurer
From the 1970s, replica foods went from being made of wax to plastic, allowing artists to produce replicas with improved durability and high-quality details like never before.
Modern food replicas, however, are made of PVC because it’s far more durable and not as easily affected by sunlight as wax.
Iwasaki Group produce wide range of different replica foods from Japanese to Western foods, confectionaries, fresh fish, Sushi, and much more, including even drinks.
How Food Replicas are Made
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Replica foods are more than just decoration.
The advantage of replica foods is that they are capable to convey a restaurant’s unique menu and flavours in an easily understandable way.
The hyper-realistic foods are almost indistinguishable from the real dishes. As a result, it can significantly boost sales due to the appealing look.
Photo: Urban Adventurer
At Iwasaki Group, every replica food is made individually and tailored to the specific needs of restaurants.
As a first step, they form a silicone mold that will express a rough food surface.
When the mold is ready, they pour coloured resin into it and let it harden.
Once the resin has been hardened, they remove it from the mold and cut and correct any unwanted protrusions.
All statues are hand painted by artists to look exactly like the real food. Once the painting is done, the artists arrange them with other serving elements to look like the actual food.
47 Hyper-Realistic Food Replicas to Represent 47 Japanese Prefectures
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To celebrate Japan’s culinary diversity, Iwasaki Group specifically commissioned 47 new food replicas for Japan House London’s new exhibition. Each food represents one of Japan’s prefectures.
The replica foods are called ‘shokuhin samporu’ and the collection of the 47 3D sculptures consist of Okinawa’s famous ‘Goya Chanpuru’ (bitter melon stir-fry) as well as the indigenous Ainu ‘Ohaw’ (soup with salmon) from the northern island of Hokkaido.
In 2023, Japan House London hosted an exhibition about Japan’s indigenous people, the Ainu, who were the earliest settlers of Japan’s northernmost island, Hokkaido.
Learn more about the Ainu and the exhibition here.
Make Your Own Bento Box
Photo: Urban Adventurer
The cherry on top of the exhibition is the interactive space where visitors have the opportunity to create their own bento box of replica food and share it on social media.
Visitors will also have a chance to purchase realistic food samples and other exhibition related products from Japan House shop.
Exhibition Related Programs and Events
Photo: Urban Adventurer
The exhibition will be completed with a series of related programs, including cooking and craft workshops, talks, demonstrations and gallery tours.
‘Looks Delicious! Exploring Japan’s Food Replica Culture’ is first of its kind in the UK, providing visitors a rare opportunity to take a glimpse into a 100-year-old tradition of a uniquely Japanese phenomenon.
FREE | Booking encouraged. Time slots can be booked here
Ready for your next adventure? Turn on the Bat sign and don your Batsuit because the highly anticipated Batman Unmasked exhibition is finally open with original costumes, props and vehicles used in films from 1989 – 2022.
Celebrating its 20th anniversary, iconic handheld digital pet brand, Tamagotchi Connection have teamed up with Japan Centre Ichibato give away 5,000 limited edition Mametchi pin badges.
[BLOG POST IN BIO] Tamagotchi Connection x Ichiba ✿.｡.:* ☆:**:. Japan Centre Ichiba launched a cute pop-up to celebrate Tamagotchi’s 20th anniversary There are 4 set menus (2 for adults & 2 for kids) and if you order any of them, you’ll get a free Mametchi pin badge 💛💙 Plus, you have a chance to win an exclusive pin badge or a Tamagotchi! 🎀 . ✿.｡.☆. 🎀 You can also buy Tamagotchi on the spot. You can find the most different themes, including One Piece, Demon Slayer and Hello Kitty, as well as the classic version @Japan Centre @Westfield UK #tamagotchi#tamagotchismart#retrotoys#japancentrelondon#ichiba#1990s#popup#westfield#CapCut
Located on the ground floor within Westfield White City, Ichiba is part of Japan Centre Group and it’s Europe’s largest Japanese food hall.
Ichiba aims to bring the best Japanese food and drink, homewares and grifts straight from Japan to London.
Within the venue, there are a number of hot food vendors to serve wide range of Japanese authentic street food, baked goods and drinks with a modern twist.
The Tamagotchi Connection x Ichiba special pop-up was launched on the 21st August and it will be there to enjoy for a few weeks depending on the stock level of the free pin badges.
Photo: Urban Adventurer
Ichiba is celebrating Tamagotchi Connection’s 20th anniversary with 4 special set menus (2 for adults and 2 for kids).
If you order any set menu, you’ll get a free Tamagotchi pin badge in the shape of one of the most iconic characters: Mametchi.
Photo: Urban Adventurer
Adult Set Menus (£11.95)
Sukiyaki Set
Beef sukiyaki donburi, edamame + a free Mametchi pin badge
Curry Set
Pumpkin croquette curry, edamame + a free Mametchi pin badge
Kids Set Menus – for ages 12 and under (£5.45)
Kids Katsu Set
Chicken katsu with rice, edamame, sweetcorn, tomato, sauce, selected drink + a free Mametchi pin badge
Kids Ramen Set
Vegan white natural ramen, selected drink + a free Mametchi pin badge
Tamagotchi fans have the opportunity to enjoy their meal in themed booths and take pictures with their favourite Tamagotchi characters.
As part of the collaboration, a range of Tamagotchis are available to purchase on the spot, including 4 new Tamagotchi Connections!
Win a Special Pin Badge or a Tamagotchi Connection or Tamagotchi Original
Photo: Urban Adventurer
100 lucky customers will win a special version of the pin badge, featuring blue glitter and gold outline.
Plus, if you’re super lucky, you can even win a Tamagotchi Connection or a Tamagotchi Original.
Tamagotchi Connection x Ichiba at Westfield London is set to connect loyal fans as well as the new generation of Tamagotchi enthusiasts to share the experience and form memories to cherish.
Ready for your next adventure? Oscar-winning stop motion animation studio behind ‘Coraline’ and ‘Kubo and the Two Strings’, LAIKA, is running a free exhibition in co-operation with BFI Southbank. LAIKA: Frame x Frame is free to visit until the 1st October 2024.
Travel back in time to the neon-lit alleyways of the 1970s Japan to discover the history of Ramen. Panton Yokocho – similarly to Heddon Yokocho just off Regents Street – recreates those yatai stall dining areas under the dim light of lanterns of narrow noisy alleyways full of mouth-watering smells of different Japanese foods.
Ramen Bowls from All Over Japan
Photo: Urban Adventurer
Stepping into Panton Yokocho is like leaping back in time. The staff greets you in Japanese before guiding you through the jungle of colourful lanterns, noren curtains and vintage posters to your table.
Classic J-pop soundtracks are playing while you browse the map of Japan and discover the 11 different types or Ramen from across the country from Tokyo to Hokkaido to Sapporo.
A map of Japan helps you explore where each Ramen bowl is originated from and learn more about the place of origin, type of broth and noodles and the toppings.
Did you know that the first bowl of noodle, similar to today’s Ramen was served in 1884 in Japan? Click here to learn more interesting facts about Ramen history.
Photo: Urban Adventurer
TIP: to help you discover all Ramen from the map, every Monday and Tuesday a selected Ramen bowl is on offer for just £10.90. Ask the staff about the Ramen of the week.
TIP: There is a working retro Ramen vending machine within the restaurant that works with Japanese coins. Just ask the staff to exchange coins for you (you can either pay by cash or card) and grab your instant Ramen.
Watch video of Panton Yokocho and the retro Ramen vending machine here.
Pair Your Ramen with a Japanese Cocktail
Photo: Urban Adventurer
Why not pair your Ramen with a Japanese cocktail? Panton Yokocho introduced their cocktail menu last year. They have over a dozen different cocktails from classic Negroni with a Japanese twist to floral and light cocktails served with edible manga sticker.
TIP: HAPPY HOUR every Monday and Tuesday 4pm-6pm. All cocktails for £7 and the best part is: this offer can be used together with Ramen of the Week offer!
Itadakimasu!
Photo: Urban Adventurer
Panton Yokocho is much more than just Ramen and cocktail!
They offer a range of side dishes, such as chicken kaarage, gyoza, chicken wings (make sure you check out their Wing Wednesday offer!), sashimi, and much more.
They also have different types of noodles and delicious buns to try.
Apart from cocktails, they have Japanese wine and beer as well as sake tasting experience.
Photo: Urban Adventurer
Japanese and classic soft drinks are also available. My personal all-time favourite is Melon Cream Soda which comes in two different flavours and served with vanilla ice cream (vegan ice cream option available) and maraschino cherry on top.
For dessert, why not try one of their ice cream stacks that come with mochi donut, ice cream and pocky stick?
They also have a range of mochi ice cream in exciting flavours, such as Hong Kong Milk Tea, Vegan Miso Chocolate or Mango & Passion Fruit. Affogato and Yuzu sorbet, are also on the desserts menu.
Many of the desserts are vegan or offer vegan option.
On a family day out?
Panton Yokocho’s kids set menu contains a bowl of Ramen (classic or vegan), side dish and a choice of drink. You can add a scoop of vegan ice cream for just £1.
Practical Info
Photo: Urban Adventurer
Panton Yokocho is usually not too busy and accept walk-ins.
Glowing lanterns, neon street signs, classic J-pop music, and ramen specialities from every area of Japan. This is Heddon Yokochō, a retro ramen bar that brings you back to Showa era Japan in the 1970s.
What is ‘Yokochō’
Photo: Urban Adventurer
‘Yokochō’ is a Japanese word for alleyway. Hidden from the main streets, labyrinths of narrow alleys were present in every city in Japan in the 1970s. Tucked away behind curtains, those lively alleys were jungles of restaurants and bars.
Hidden away from the buzzing Regent Street, Heddon Yokochō opened its doors last October on 8 Heddon Street, which is a lovely alley-like street, a perfect hideaway from the busy daily life for an hour or two.
Heddon Yokochō takes ramen seriously. You can read all the interesting things about ramen and itshistory from the very beginning and how it’s become popular on the restaurant’s website.
Did you know that tonkotsu ramen was actually made by mistake? Or that instant noodles was invented only in 1958? This was a milestone in ramen history because from that point anyone could make their own ramen in the comfort of their own home.
However, the popularity of ramen started to increase no sooner than the 1980s. From the 1980s ramen has started its journey to global popularity, and soon became a symbol of Japan – next to sushi, matcha and sake.
Today there are 24,000 ramen shops in Japan, 5,000 of them are in Tokyo alone!
Over time every region of Japan created their own ramen speciality, each of which has exciting and sometimes astounding story behind them.
You can discover all regional types of ramen in Japan on this map.
On exploring Heddon Yokochō ‘s menu, we can find tons of ramen options. Each ramen on the menutells you which area of Japan they are originated and the year they were created.
See the map printed on the menu to know where your chosen ramen is from.
So, where would you start your ramen journey? From the snowy northern islands of Hokkaido or the sunny southern archipelagos of Kyushu?
Heddon Yokochō is not just about ramen, though. They have a good selection of sushi rolls (available from 5pm everyday), Hirata Buns and sides.
I wanted to try something really historical, so I ordered the oldest ramen available. Hakodate Shio was created in 1884 in North Japan. It comes with salt based chicken or pork broth. The pork is slow cooked for 6 hrs until it becomes so soft, it almost melts in your mouth. The ramen contains menma (bamboo shoots), nitamago egg (boiled egg with soft centre), Naruto fishcake, nori & umeboshi (pickled Japanese plum. It has an intense but pleasant sour flavour).
Ramen of the Week
Discover a new ramen bowl every week from Monday to Wednesday for £8. Make it a surprise for yourself or follow their social feed to see which ramen is coming up next.
Kids Menu
Heddon Yokochō is a kid friendly restaurant. So, if you’re planning to bring your little ones for their very first Japanese food experience, feel free to do so.
They have a kid set menu with a choice of mini ramen bowl, a choice of drink and a scoop of yummy vegan ice cream.
Drink
Photo: Urban Adventurer
Now that you had your ramen journey around Japan, it’s time to discover Japanese drinks.
There is something for everyone’s taste. Japanese draft beer, wine, whisky, Shochu and more. Alternatively, why not pair your ramen with a Japanese cocktail?
They have a great selection of sake from aromatic to woody to cloudy and crystal clear. They are in collaboration with one of the best sake producers, Gekkeikan Brewery that is now being run by the 14th generation of the Okura family.
Can’t decide? Go for a ‘Sake Flight’ and taste 3 different sakes to compare?
Happy Hour
Happy Hour is from Monday to Thursday from 4-6pm. You’ll get a generous 20% off all cocktails and sake.
Heddon Yokochō has special Shuchu booths. These stylish booths are reserved for solo guests only, helping them grab some me-time while fully immersing into their ramen experience.
Shuchu means, ‘focus booth’ that provide minimal distraction in order for you to enjoy your ramen without being disturbed or interrupted.
If you book you private Shuchu booth for Monday – Friday, you can enjoy 10% off from 5pm until close.
Ready for your next adventure? How about trying anime style ramen next? In Uzumaki you can try ramen exactly how Naruto likes it. ‘Dattebayo!’
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