Having won critical acclaim at Hot Stone in Islington’s Chapel Market, executive chef Padam Raj Rai has launched his new modern fusion concept, RAI, in Fitzrovia. With a focus on seasonal, high-quality ingredients, the new restaurant offers a masterclass in fine dining, Japanese-style. Drawing on over 20 years’ experience working at some of the Capital’s finest restaurants, including Nobu and Tsukiji, Padam’s impeccable omakase-style multi-course tasting menus feature sublime flavour combinations that showcase the finest Japanese dishes alongside unique ingredients from the UK. Think highest-grade Kagoshima Wagyu beef; Sanpuku, the finest nori from Japan’s Ariake Sea; Koshihikari rice, and aged soy sauce, alongside quintessential British ingredients including cave-aged Dorset cheddar, English truffle, and organic British chocolate. And, with traditional wooden panelling, accent tiling and eye-catching artwork, the interiors are equally exquisite – contemporary décor draws inspiration from the philosophy of minimalism and Japanese design. Simply sensational.
Tasting menu priced from £130 per person. 3 Windmill Street, W1T (020 7419 0305; rairestaurant.com)
