TEMAKI Brixton: London's Premier Handroll Experience

Nestled within the vibrant Brixton Market Row, TEMAKI has established itself as London's first dedicated handroll bar, offering an intimate and authentic Japanese dining experience. The minimalist space centers around a U-shaped wooden counter where skilled chefs craft each temaki (handroll) to order directly in front of guests.

Culinary Craftsmanship

Executive Chef Shaulan Steenson, who honed his skills at acclaimed Japanese restaurants Hakkoku and Sushi Jin, has created a menu that celebrates the art of temaki. Each handroll features meticulously prepared uruchimai rice—crafted using a traditional wooden tub and paddle with a secret blend of vinegars—wrapped in crisp nori and filled with premium ingredients.

Signature offerings include the Akami Tuna handroll that sparked the restaurant's inception, the melt-in-your-mouth Otoro Tuna with spring onion, and the show-stopping BBQ Eel handroll that delivers an explosive smoky umami flavor. Beyond handrolls, don't miss the Monkfish Karaage with roe-specked mayo and the delicately prepared Yellowtail Sashimi.

Atmosphere and Experience

The dining experience at TEMAKI is as much about the theater as it is about the food. The counter seating arrangement allows guests to watch the precise craftsmanship that goes into each handroll while engaging with the chefs about ingredients and techniques. This creates an intimate, educational atmosphere that elevates the meal beyond just dining.

The beverage program features a thoughtfully curated selection of sake, Japanese beers, and pre-bottled cocktails from Hackney's Firewater Workshop, including the popular Sakura Yuzu Negroni.

Value and Accessibility

While offering Mayfair-quality sushi, TEMAKI maintains Brixton prices, making exceptional Japanese cuisine more accessible. The restaurant offers various price points, from individual handrolls starting around £8-10 to set menus ranging from £24-39. For the full experience, the Omakase tasting menu at £85 showcases the chef's selection of seasonal specialties.

Whether you're a sushi aficionado or new to Japanese cuisine, TEMAKI delivers an authentic, memorable dining experience that honors traditional techniques while embracing its vibrant Brixton setting.