BEHIND THE BITE : BLOG

Japan’s relationship with fish runs deep — from the precision of sushi to the clear, elegant flavours of traditional washoku. But what truly sets Japanese cuisine apart is the craftsmanship behind the preparation. Before fish ever reaches the plate, chefs spend years mastering techniques that elevate texture, flavour, and freshness to an art form. In this guide, we explore the methods Japanese chefs use to prepare fish, and why these techniques matter so much in creating clea

Omakase is more than just a style of dining — it’s an experience. The term literally means “I leave it up to you,” and in a restaurant setting, it signals that the chef will take the lead, presenting a carefully curated progression of dishes that showcase both skill and seasonal ingredients. For many, omakase is a journey through flavour, texture, and creativity that’s as educational as it is indulgent. For those new to this style of dining, understanding what to expect can m

Japanese cuisine often gets attention for its sushi, robata, and refined flavours — but the cocktail culture behind it is just as rich, creative, and evolving. At Yamatora, our drink menu reflects this evolution: from traditional highballs infused with Japanese sensibility to inventive cocktails that blend East‑meets‑West in exciting ways. Whether you’re new to Japanese‑style drinks or a seasoned cocktail explorer, this guide walks you through the world of Japanese cocktails

Japanese cuisine has long been celebrated worldwide for its balance, refinement, and deep respect for ingredients. Yet in recent years, it’s not just sushi and yakiniku winning hearts — it’s the desserts. From chewy mochi to fluffy castella and everything in between, wagashi  (traditional Japanese sweets) and modern Japanese-style desserts are experiencing a global renaissance. At Yamatora, guests often discover these treats for the first time — and leave wondering how someth

Japan is known for its precision, elegance, and culinary artistry — but behind the sushi counters and robata grills lies another side of Japanese cuisine: the warm, homely dishes that generations have grown up with. This is the food that brings comfort on cold nights, celebrates seasonality, and reflects the heart of Japanese home cooking. From simmered dishes to soul-soothing bowls and nostalgic flavours, Japanese comfort food is a world worth exploring. What Defines Japanes

Long before “Japanese BBQ” became a global culinary trend, there was robatayaki  — a centuries-old cooking style built around flame, smoke, and craftsmanship. Today, robata grills appear everywhere from Tokyo side streets to high-end dining rooms around the world, but few diners truly know the story behind this distinctive method or what makes it so special. For Londoners seeking a refined yet authentic taste of this tradition, understanding robatayaki adds depth to every ske

Japanese cuisine is full of delicate techniques and centuries-old traditions, but few dishes capture its simplicity and soul as beautifully as skewers cooked over charcoal. Whether you’ve tried yakitori on a bustling Tokyo side street or savoured kushiyaki in a modern robata bar, there’s something universally comforting about perfectly grilled bites served straight from the flames. In this guide, we’ll walk through the main types of Japanese skewers, what makes them unique, a

If you’ve ever looked at a sake menu and felt a bit unsure where to start, you’re not alone. Sake is one of Japan’s most iconic drinks, but it’s also one of the most misunderstood. The good news? Once you learn the basics, it opens up an entirely new world of flavour — especially when paired with sushi, yakitori, or anything fresh off the robata grill. In this beginner-friendly guide, we’ll walk through the essentials: how sake is made, what the different styles mean, and how

Wagyu beef has earned a near-mythical reputation around the world — delicate marbling, buttery texture, and a melt-in-the-mouth richness that no other meat can quite match. But for many diners, the world of Wagyu is still a mystery. What do the different cuts actually mean? Why are some silkier, some firmer, and some incredibly luxurious? And how should each cut be cooked to bring out its full flavour? Whether you’re a seasoned Wagyu enthusiast or exploring premium Japanese b

Sushi has become one of the world’s most loved cuisines — simple on the surface, yet endlessly complex beneath the blade of a skilled chef. But with so many sushi restaurants across London, it’s natural to wonder: what actually makes sushi great?  Why does one piece of tuna melt effortlessly on the tongue while another feels ordinary? And how do restaurants ensure the balance between tradition and innovation stays intact? This guide explores the fundamentals behind exceptiona