Katsuma in Islington

This is going to be an unusual review in that I can't think of another restaurant where I've enjoyed the food very much whilst taking an active dislike to the restaurant interior. The quality of food is all that really matters, right? If so, please read the next paragraph and ignore what follows it! My wife had already visited Tanakatsu several times with her friends. We both had a lunchtime bento box, which was expertly prepared with wonderfully crisp pork katsu, tasty salmon teriyaki on good quality rice, an excellent pumpkin croquette, a small selection of high-class sushi and a fine side salad on which you could drizzle the owner's "mighty dressing", served with miso soup. I really couldn't fault it. Another big tick from me for the modest 7.5% service charge. So what about the internal layout? It's actually quite spacious with plenty of natural light but the internal concrete walls were for me unappealing and the overall decor off-putting. Along two walls are some tightly spaced and rather small tables. The one we were shown to was unpleasantly sticky and our conversation drowned by an exceptionally loud man next to us conducting a job interview in a domineering manner. On the other sides were two long 'shelves' which I suppose was the inspiration for the unusual restaurant name ('tana' = 'shelf'). I can understand the logic - it makes it easier to accommodate solo diners - but surely the point of sitting diners side by side is that there should be something more interesting to look at than a very uninspiring street or concrete wall. Also it leaves so much wasted floorspace in the middle! Anyway if you think these observations petty and unnecessary - just go there and you'll have a really good meal.

I was fancy a Japanese so I looked the closest one and I found this place, so I decided to go. The atmosphere is quite relaxing and warm. The lady that runs it is very nice. The food is incredible good and the prices are decent. If you are looking for authentic Japanese food, in a friendly atmosphere for a decent price, do not think twice!

Recommended. Found it online looking for a pre-Garage venue, very pleased I did. Great restaurant, Japanese classics (Sushi, sashimi, tempura) done very well and competitively priced. Hostess (owner?) was extremely hospitable. Can park outside after 7pm. A very enjoyable experience.

Small sushi and grocery shop, they have 6 seats inside facing the window, you can stay 45 minutes tops but it is more than enough to eat. They have premade options or you can order from their menu. Premade 8 pieces for £15.5 or Sushi Special 9 pieces for £21

As soon as we entered SA SA, we felt welcome and comfortable. We didn’t feel rushed ordering our food and the restaurant was aesthetic and clean. The staff were lovely and the food beat expectations. I have never had sushi so good up until today. If you’re looking for a sushi spot with a chill vibe and that beats expectations, this is the spot.