A deeply traditional Japanese culinary experience
At Yokoya, we do more than serve food—we offer a passage into the heart of Japanese tradition. Tucked away in the bustling side streets of Camden, London, Yokoya is a sanctuary for those seeking an authentic Kaiseki and Izakaya dining experience, guided by the rhythms of the seasons and centuries of culinary artistry.
We invite you to step into a slower moment. A quieter space. Where each dish is a tribute, each meal a meditation.
The Vision of Master Chef Kuwaki
Born and trained in Japan, Chef Makoto Kuwaki began his journey in the art of cha-kaiseki—the cuisine of the tea ceremony—at the age of 18. After years of study under masters of Japanese haute cuisine and cultural disciplines such as chadō (the way of tea) and kadō (the way of flowers), he brings to Yokoya a refined vision that bridges traditional and contemporary expressions of Japanese food.
His work has reached imperial standards—literally. Before founding Yokoya, Chef Kuwaki’s culinary excellence was entrusted to host dignitaries including the Emperor and Empress of Japan.
Rooted in Ritual, Elevated in Craft
Our name, Yokoya, means “a place of harmony,” and every element of your experience—each course, each setting, each gesture—reflects that spirit. Inspired by the philosophy of kaiseki, the traditional Japanese multi-course meal, we present cuisine that is not only seasonal and balanced, but deeply respectful of nature’s fleeting beauty.
Each dish tells a story. A story shaped by time-honored techniques, delicate flavors, and the subtle beauty of impermanence—wabi-sabi.