Food & Drink
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PIRAÑA: Mayfair’s Hottest New Nikkei Dining Destination
London’s dining scene has a new star: PIRAÑA, a high-energy Nikkei restaurant that burst onto the scene in July 2024.
With a staggering £7 million fit-out, it’s clear that no expense was spared in creating a venue that perfectly balances luxury, theatre, and cutting-edge cuisine. And this is only the beginning—plans are already in place for global expansion, setting the stage for PIRAÑA to become an international name.
Meet the founders
Garry Caprani started in hospitality while studying law, but it wasn’t long before he became a major force in London’s nightlife. His knack for PR and guest relations made him the go-to for celebrity experiences, with a black book of contacts most could only dream of. In 2018, he became a partner at The London REIGN, which went on to win Best New Club at the London Club & Bar Awards. Since then, he’s been behind every Strongarm Hospitality venture, from TABŪ London to PIRAÑA. Asher Grant, with over 16 years in the industry, has an eye for trendsetting concepts. After founding REIGN in 2017, he expanded into F&B, launching EggRun and securing a contract with the Mandarin Oriental Hanover Square for its exclusive rooftop terrace. His acquisition of Mahiki led to the birth of TABŪ, now thriving in both London and Mykonos. With PIRAÑA already one of Mayfair’s hottest reservations and global expansion in the works, Strongarm Hospitality is just getting started.PIRAÑA: What's it like to dine here?
When a restaurant arrives in Mayfair with a £7 million fit-out, you expect a spectacle. PIRAÑA more than delivers. This high-energy Nikkei dining destination, which blends Japanese and Peruvian influences, is the kind of place where drama and decadence go hand in hand—think theatrical tableside service, bold flavours, and a sleek, immersive setting that feels effortlessly glamorous. The experience kicks off with tableside guacamole, prepared fresh in front of us. Creamy avocado is mashed with citrus, chilli, and coriander, setting the tone for the vibrant flavours to come. From there, ceviche takes centre stage. The seabass ceviche is a classic, bright with yuzu and leche de tigre, while the fennel and beetroot ceviche offers a delicate, earthy alternative that showcases the restaurant’s inventive approach. From the robata grill, the black cod skewers are a must - glazed to perfection, they flake apart with the lightest touch. The mushroom skewers, beautifully charred, are rich and umami-laden, while the mushroom tempura delivers satisfying crunch and depth of flavour. My dining companion is vegan, and she’s seriously impressed with the number (and quality) of dishes on the menu that don’t stint on flavour. The grilled aubergine with pomegranate is a highlight, smokey and caramelised, with bursts of sweetness from the fruit. Even I, a confirmed carnivore, feel I could be a vegan if I could eat this every day!
Cocktails and wine to match
PIRAÑA’s signature cocktails are just as show-stopping as the food. Expect Nikkei-inspired creations featuring pisco, sake, and yuzu-infused spirits, each beautifully presented with artistic garnishes and a touch of theatre. The wine list is impressively curated, with a mix of Old and New World vintages that pair seamlessly with the menu’s bold flavours. Our sommelier, Cairo, is knowledgeable without being arrogant, and allows us to try a couple of wines until we hit the jackpot, a well-rounded unoaked Chardonnay that pairs perfectly with the food. PIRAÑA is as much an experience as it is a restaurant. The dishes are vibrant, theatrical, and packed with flavour, the cocktails are expertly crafted, and the setting is pure Mayfair opulence. Whether you're after a high-energy dinner with friends or a late-night culinary adventure, this Nikkei hotspot is one to book before the waiting list gets any longer.