Why INÉ Was Created
Located on Hampstead High Street, INÉ is a Japanese restaurant opened in December 2023 as the sister restaurant to TAKU—the Michelin-starred Omakase in Mayfair. Where TAKU delivers a refined, high-end sushi experience for connoisseurs and special occasions, INÉ offers a more relaxed alternative—still premium in quality and technique, but more approachable in setting, price, and variety.
INÉ was created to bridge the gap between casual sushi and fine dining Omakase—making premium Japanese cuisine more accessible without compromising on quality or craft. It’s ideal for those seeking a refined sushi experience in a more relaxed setting.
The decision to open in Hampstead was intentional. Known for its village-like charm, Hampstead is home to a loyal local community that appreciates great food without the formality of central London dining. INÉ was designed to cater to these locals—offering top-quality sushi, cooked dishes, and seasonal ingredients in a setting where guests can return often, not just for special occasions.
The restaurant was born out of the overwhelming success of TAKU in Mayfair—earning a Michelin star just four months after opening. Chef Takuya Watanabe and the team felt there was an opportunity to bring a different kind of Japanese dining experience to London—one that retained TAKU’s craftsmanship, but offered a different tone and rhythm for a wider audience.
A Different Take on Japanese Dining
At INÉ, guests can choose from three different dining experiences:
The Omakase Counter – A chef-led tasting journey of over 17 courses, served at 12:30, 18:00 and 20:30, with a lunch Omakase (Tuesday–Friday) featuring 12+ courses at a lower price point.
The Main Dining Room – An à la carte menu that includes sushi and sashimi as well as classic comfort dishes like pork katsu, octopus karaage, and chicken yakitori.
The Private Dining Room – A more intimate setting that accommodates up to 12 guests, perfect for group bookings, events, or those looking for a semi-exclusive experience.
While Chef Takuya Watanabe continues to oversee the concept as Chef Patron, the day-to-day kitchen at INÉ is led by Chef Law Kwok Meng, who brings over 23 years of sushi experience to the counter. Together, they’ve created a menu that celebrates traditional Japanese technique while adapting it to a more casual, versatile format.
From TAKU to INÉ – Evolving the Omakase Experience
The opening of INÉ represents the next chapter for Chef Taku and the team—a chance to bring Omakase to more people, and to show that exceptional Japanese dining doesn’t always have to be exclusive. It’s about broadening the conversation around sushi in London, while still holding onto the same values that made TAKU so successful: seasonality, craftsmanship, and attention to detail.
Whether you're sitting at the counter for the full Omakase, grabbing a quick lunch in the main dining room, or hosting a gathering in the private space, INÉ offers something for every kind of guest. It's a restaurant built on respect for tradition, but designed with the modern diner in mind.
Ready to experience INÉ? Book your table here and join us in Hampstead.