Rai opens its doors in Fitzrovia

Rai, the multi-course concept created by and named after founder Shrabaneswor Rai and executive chef Padam Raj Rai, has opened its doors in Fitzrovia.

The concept features multi-course omakase-style tasting menus that fuse Japanese dishes with unique ingredients from the UK and around the world.

Having won “critical acclaim” at Hot Stone in Islington’s Chapel Market, Padam Raj Rai brings over 20 years of experience in some of the city’s ‘most renowned’ Japanese restaurants to Rai.

Open Wednesday – Saturday, the tasting menus will change regularly according to what is in season but will usually begin with a snack such as crispy rice and tuna; alongside homemade tofu, marinated in 10 years-aged soy and topped with ponzu caviar.

This will be followed by seven plates showcasing “tradition and innovation”, with dishes featuring Kagoshima A5 wagyu with kizami wasabi from Japan, alongside nori from Japan’s Ariake Sea – Sanpuku.

To complement the menu, Rai will also offer a choice of sake by the glass, bottle and alongside a list of wines from France, Italy and Spain. There is also a range of Japanese spirits, including Ryoma seven-year-old rum, Nikka Coffey gin and a number of Suntory whiskies, as well as Kirin beer.

The interiors of the restaurant will draw inspiration from the philosophy of minimalism and Japanese design.