The story behind TAKU
TAKU Mayfair began as a dream shared between Chef Takuya Watanabe (also known as Taku) and the Leong family, renowned restaurateurs in London. The journey started when Lucas Leong, one of the co-founders, visited Jin, Chef Taku’s Michelin-starred Omakase restaurant in Paris, in December 2021. Lucas had heard many great things about Chef Taku but found that the experience exceeded even his high expectations.
What stood out to Lucas was Chef Taku's unique approach to sushi. Every detail, from the rice — meticulously seasoned with Taku's own blend of vinegar and salt — to the balance of flavours in each piece of sushi, was perfected. Impressed by the level of craftsmanship and the distinct taste, Lucas couldn’t help but envision bringing this extraordinary experience to London. After their meal, they formed a friendship, and the idea for TAKU was born.
TAKU, a 16-seat omakase restaurant, opened its doors in Mayfair on 16th November 2022. It quickly made its mark on the London dining scene, earning a Michelin star just four months after its opening. However, TAKU’s success is a reflection of the experience and talent behind it. Chef Taku’s previous restaurant, Jin in Paris, was the first omakase in the city to earn a Michelin star, holding that prestigious recognition for 10 years.
For Chef Taku, the decision to open in London wasn’t just about expanding his portfolio; it was a realisation of a long-held dream. He had always admired the high-quality fish and crustaceans found along the UK’s shores, perfect for creating sushi in the traditional edomae style. At TAKU, he uses curing methods that enhance the umami flavours of the fish, a technique that is deeply rooted in the history of sushi-making.
The Leong family, with brothers Lucas and Geoff co-founding the restaurant, brought decades of experience to TAKU. Their family has been pivotal in shaping London’s East Asian dining scene, pushing the boundaries of Asian cuisine in the UK. The collaboration with Chef Taku was a natural progression in their mission to elevate perceptions of Japanese food, now with a focus on omakase.
TAKU offers an immersive dining experience, where the chefs interact with guests at the counter, showcasing their skills while preparing a menu that changes daily based on the freshest ingredients available. The Omakase experience is deeply personal, leaving guests in the hands of the chef as they embark on a culinary journey. With dishes curated from seasonal produce and locally-sourced seafood, TAKU represents the perfect blend of tradition and innovation.
Chef Long Ng, who worked alongside Taku for several years, plays a key role in bringing the menu to life. Together, they create dishes that highlight the harmony of flavours and the artistry behind omakase. Paired with fine wines, rare champagnes, and specialty sakes selected by sommelier Bowie Tsang, each course is a testament to TAKU’s commitment to delivering an unforgettable experience.
TAKU’s story is one of friendship, craftsmanship, and a shared passion for creating an exceptional dining experience in the heart of London. What began as an idea over lunch in Paris has now blossomed into one of Mayfair’s most sought-after dining destinations, where each meal is a work of art.
Lucas, Taku, Geoff respectively