London · Yakitori · a la carte
Jin Kichi
YakitoriSushiIzakayaRobataHampsteadNorth LondonNeighbourhoodFamily-run
A Hampstead institution since 1992, Jin Kichi is the archetypal London izakaya: robata grill front and centre, outstanding yakitori, and a sushi bar delivering the kind of fish quality usually reserved for central London fine dining.
- Price
- ¥¥
- Area
- Hampstead
- Since
- 1992
- Owner
- Atsushi Matsumoto & Kazumasa Seki
Plate № 360
About
Founded in 1992 by Japanese owners Atsushi Matsumoto and Kazumasa Seki, Jin Kichi has operated for over three decades as one of London's most authentic izakaya experiences. Located on Hampstead's Heath Street, the restaurant centres on a live robata grill from which chefs prepare 16 varieties of yakitori skewers — the definitive dish here — alongside exceptional sashimi and nigiri, soba, udon, and tempura. In 2022 the restaurant expanded into the adjacent premises, nearly doubling its cover count. Rated 27/30 by Zagat for food quality, it remains a cult address for Japanese food purists who prize produce-led cooking and proper izakaya atmosphere over flashy décor.
Why it's on Washoku Guide
- Over 30 years of authentic yakitori and izakaya cooking in Hampstead
- Japanese-owned since founding — Matsumoto and Seki source fresh ingredients daily
- Live robata grill counter for an immersive dining experience
- Zagat-rated 27/30 for food quality; perpetually full and beloved by locals
Reservations strongly recommended — often fully booked weeks ahead.
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Frequently asked
About Jin Kichi
- Is Jin Kichi an authentic yakitori restaurant in London?
- Yes — Jin Kichi is featured in Washoku Guide because it meets our authenticity standard for yakitori in London: a kitchen grounded in Japanese technique, ingredients and preparation consistent with Japanese practice, and a focused yakitori format.
- Where is Jin Kichi located?
- Jin Kichi is located at 73 Heath Street, London NW3 6UG, London, UK in the Hampstead neighborhood.
- Do I need a reservation at Jin Kichi?
- Jin Kichi accepts reservations online. For an authentic yakitori experience, especially at a focused counter, booking ahead is strongly recommended.
- What is the price range at Jin Kichi?
- Jin Kichi sits in the ¥¥ price range — typical for yakitori of this format in London.
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