Many restaurants have tag-lines and the odd claim to foodie fame, but it's Itadakizen that triumphs as the first organic and vegan Japanese restaurant in Europe. Invited down to see what the power of vegetables and plants can do for Japanese dining, we found out what gives Itadakizen their 5-star notoriety.
The Venue & Atmosphere
Not lacking in guests and pretty much full on arrival, it's clear that the exclusion of ocean-bites doesn't turn punters away from the doors of Itadakizen. Washed in muted browns, light wood and hessian nods, this is a two-floor restaurant that clearly caters to the casual. Not fussed with flapping around, not only were our waiters tranquil, timely and helpful with their recommendations, their humble attitude reflects the tone of a restaurant that doesn't cater to the hectic city outside, keeping things both steady and easy-going.
Humble and hidden away from the King's Cross hustle and bustle.
The Food & Drink
The menu at Itadakizen offered us a stark contrast from those that i've seen in restaurants before. Not only is it great to see a menu where everything caters to those that keep their plates animal and by-product free, it was absolutely massive, promising more set dishes than i'd had hot dinners. While sometimes a set-menu might put me off, Itadakizen sell all their dishes in both hearty and affordable portions, with their bento boxes setting you back as little as £15 for a mighty selection of nit-bits and Japanese bites.
Snapping up two of these boxes alongside a couple of inexpensive glasses of house wine, our selection involved two pieces of Kakiage tempura, a large spring roll, a green salad, two side dishes, kimpab rolls and miso soup. Moreish enough that we ordered a second portion, not only were the Harumaki spring rolls tight with flavour and that craved crunch, the kakiage pulled a close second with its rich bite, smacking of soya and fresh ingredients. Known for cultivating ingredients from their own farm, it's clear that Itadakizen pride themselves on the vegetables they bring to the table, offering a salad that was not only wholesome and honest, but a selection of sushi bites that melted on the mouth as you tidy them up with a manageable bowl of miso.
Try the Bento Box for a varying selection of vegan dishes.
Summary
I've had vegan food and i'm down with plants, but it's Itadakizen that stands on a level all its own. One of the biggest vegan menus i've ever seen and proving that the ocean's stocks can be left well enough alone when it comes to Asian fare, Itadakizen is creative with their ingredients, humble in their charm and home to some of the best meat-free meals in London.
