Harajuku Kitchen

Popular Bruntsfield spot for locals seeking a taste of Japan.

The 2019/20 edition of The List's Eating & Drinking Guide is out now – only £5.95 (+p&p).

On a prime corner in Bruntsfield, Harajuku Kitchen serves up vibrant Japanese cuisine to loyal neighbourhood diners. The vibe is laid-back with friendly staff happy to explain the menu and offer up forks to those whose dexterity falls foul of chopsticks. It's a cosy dining room of chunky wooden tables and charming murals, with the daily specials board listing the more intriguing dishes on offer. There's a good cross-section of Japanese cuisine, such as yakisobas and katsu curries, but the main event is certainly the sushi. There are plenty of rolls to choose from, some more interesting than others, but all filled with well-seasoned rice and sustainable, locally sourced fish wherever possible. Thinly sliced sashimi features rich salmon, meaty tuna and tender mackerel, and the takoyaki from the starter menu are tantalising cloud-like balls of goodness, made with fluffy batter and chunks of octopus. Wash it all down with Japanese beer or tea and try the mochi ice-cream or sweet gyoza for pudding.