Sushi Bar HanaMatsuri in Leeds

Despite living in Meanwood for five years, I'd never been to Hana Matsuri and finally got round to going this evening. I'd heard good things, but wasn't prepared for how good it was. The food (small plates) was incredible and very reasonably priced, the waiting staff were attentive and knowledgable - a truly memorable experience. I will certainly be back (at every opportunity).

Decided to try the new format of HanaMatsuri, which has become a beloved name in our household having visited a few years ago in the prior format. Was really excited to try the new accessible and affordable menu with small plates. Booked well ahead and was happy with the strict cancellation policy (£100 fee if cancelled <48h in advance) but was surprised that we actually struggled to spend this much in the restaurant and spent about £55 in total for both of us. Maybe worth reducing that cancellation charge? Seems almost like it would put people off booking in the first place and a bit of a shame. Service was friendly and very attentive, I can't fault it. Staff were very friendly and welcoming on arrival and throughout the meal. My disappointment lies more in the delivery of the new concept. I enjoyed most of what we had (braised pork belly, soft shell crab tempura, 2x onigiri, and grilled trout) but was quite taken aback at how small the dishes were. Paying around £10 for a very small slice of plain grilled trout served alone seemed a little excessive, and similarly the soft shell crab (around £12) was a very small portion. I think if the concept is meant to be casual and more down to earth then either the portion sizes need to change or the prices need adjustment to reflect how many you would need to constitute a full meal. I desperately want this restaurant to do well and I thoroughly support the new concept having been a loyal customer of the previous omakase style, but I think some tweaks need to be done before it takes off, namely: - get rid of or reduce the prohibitive cancellation fee - adjust either portion sizes or prices for the small plates - advise guests of how many dishes would be suggested for a full meal

Warning: this restaurant has changed offering since it received most of its good reviews. We visited on a Saturday night. Food was ok. Staff were meek and inattentive. Had a couple of karaage, one was dry and overcooked and the other greasy and undercooked. Chicken wings were unacceptably overcooked and small for £7. £5 for green beans with little flavour or marinade. Belly pork was pretty decent. Onigiri were bland and overpriced. Card machine wasn’t working at the end, had to manually enter my card details into an iPad. £80 for food for two people including drinks. Also… a £100 penalty for booking cancellations within 48h for a place that you’d struggle to spend £100 is bizarre, not to mention the vaguely threatening emails they send about the cancellation policy.

Updated my review as I've now been back since it converted to its current izakaya offering. The food was really nice, flavourful but delicate, and it's still a great spot with a nice vibe. Not quite what I was expecting from 'izakaya' - feels and costs more like a taster menu restaurant than a casual bar. Really good though.

Perfection. Excellent food (the Su-No-Monu, the Monkfish Karaage, and the Original Chicken Wings are all essential orders), great service (Kaoru-san was not there that evening- but your staff are a credit to you and your passion) superb sake and an incredibly authentic experience. If you love food of any type you must go- if you love Japanese food, you’ve probably been already- but if you haven’t - drop everything and get yourself down- you won’t regret a thing!

A truly excellent experience, authentic flavours, perfectly balanced, alongside excellent sake and superlative service. Go now if you haven’t!

We visited on Thursday evening and had the best time. We got a selection of many items to share, and every dish was exceptional. I would say my personal favourite was the pickled cucumber. It looked so delicate and simple, but the taste really packed a punch. The monk fish was also to die for. You must try their selection of sakes, and I'm still dreaming about the yuzu wine. The service was really personable, special compliments to the chef. Thanks for an amazing experience

Visited 9th March 2024 for my birthday. Everything about this experience was incredible, from the food and drink to the amazing service provided by FOH who did a brilliant job of looking after us, keeping us entertained and educating us on all aspects of the menu. A couple of important things to note: a lot of reviews say this is a sushi restaurant but it's now an izakaya with a menu focussing on small eats with delicious onigiri being the star of the show. If you want sushi, this is available in the city centre through the sister restaurant Sushi Nakamura. Favourite dishes here were the chicken wings, monkfish karaage and the pumpkin croquettes. Tuna onigiri was delicious too! Definitely try this place.

Now serving izakaya which is a kind of Japanese tapas. Much more accessible and affordable than when it was a sushi restaurant and you can now turn up without booking which is a bonus. A good selection of very tasty Japanese dishes. Would definitely recommend.

Really nice people, excellent food and a lovely atmosphere.

Extremely hospitable host The small restaurant is immaculate Excellent choice of food and drink It would be an ideal venue for a work team lunch We will return

Delightful and authentic Japanese dining experience. Highly recommend!

We had heard such amazing things about this and in particular the experience…. Unfortunately it would appear that with the opening of Sushi Nakamura the chef has moved on and this place in Meanwood is nothing short of a bad experience. In all honesty our review cannot resemble anything positive: 1. Freezing cold. 2. No wine 3. No fish 4. No sashimi/sushi 5. No avacado 6. £6 for a sliced tomato We hoped for a classic and rustic personal experience. This was not had and for £97 we had to go have dinner again. Looking forward to trying the new restaurant in Leeds city, haven’t given up hope yet. The question remains whether there is a place for this restaurant in meanwood to stay open.

Amazing good. Superlatives to describe this food have not been invented. Better than brilliant, superb, astonishing. We had 23 dishes, it cost £150 each and it was worth every last penny.

Utterly amazing. This is a special place. Food amazing. The care and precision is superb. Only us 2 in the restaurant at 5:30pm. So like a private dining. Will be back.

Had an amazing meal at this quirky restaurant. Having read reviews we had high expectations. Certainly a special occasion visit given the price but the chef is an artist with the food he creates for you. This place like a good book should not be judged by its cover. I would say if this is your first experience of Japanese food you may not get it. But certainly good made with love

Wow - what a an experience. Not cheap but hey my son was paying as an xmas present. I find it funny that the place looks closed down and abandoned - but I can assure it isn't. They certainly are not looking for walk ins. We had the set sushi menu which they only do on certain days of the week. I think the guy said they could only accommodate 6 max at these because he can only make it at such a speed and so no more. We were a party of five and we sat around where the owner assembled the Sushi in front of us. I am always a bit puzzled by Sushi - enjoyable but is it that special ? Well this was for sure and worth doing. Very tasty very special but also left me knowing that since this was as liable to be as good as it gets that no I don't think it worth it unless cost just isn't an issue. I think there are better food spends out there for me. Would I go again ? I sure would as a special treat and happily most days if the £ were not an issue.

不能去伦敦吃omakase的来这家绝对不吃亏，定价良心，金枪鱼品质也不错。 另外可以追加海胆，味道鲜甜 价格也很公道，比中国便宜😄

Just eaten here again for the second time this year. It is a fantastic experience and well worth doing. The surroundings are intimate and calm. The people are welcoming and helpful. The chef talented and the food, exquisite. I come here for a special occasion and as a reminder of some great times in Japan. Hana Matsuri never disappoints. Thank you Chef Nakamura and team. I'll be back again soon.

Absolutely fantastic meal and great service!

Stunning! Mouthfuls of heaven. Food I would never have imagined eating was just sublime. Thanks to all the wonderful staff for an amazing experience.

The best way I can describe this is as a Japanese tasting menu. The quality of the food is exquisite and it’s amazing to watch the Chef at work. We enjoyed every dish and it was a real experience. I wouldn’t recommend if you are fussy with food as it’s a true tasting menu experience in that you eat what is presented to you If you love food it’s a must try

The quality of food here is unreal. My wife took me for my birthday and it was the best meal I've had in nearly a decade.

We really enjoyed our time here! The attention to detail, the amazing service and of course delicious food! We were introduced to many types of new seafood, ways of cooking, tastes and textures! We love the seasonal menu and will definitely be coming again for a special occasion 🤍🍽

This place is truly exceptional- the food is exquisite and the quality incredible- it’s by far the best sushi/omakatsu I’ve ever had. Amazing. The restaurant looks totally unassuming from the outside and serves maximum 6 people. So boom ahead!

In my opinion there is no better sushi than this wonderful restaurant!

Faultless. Attentive service and the best sushi I've ever tried by far.

Introduced & treated to a wonderful intimate Omakase! I do love Japanese food (especially sushi), and this brought back so many wonderful memories of Japan and the fantastic food I had there! Not many pics (for a change) as I mostly got lost in the eating moment Every dish was amazing (my favourite being the fatty tuna and spring onion hand roll which isn’t pictured as it was devoured) You could tell all used fantastic produce, and the green tea was so different with beautiful seaweed notes, definitely the best green tea I’ve ever had in the UK (perfect accompaniment - need to find it to have at home!) The skill, care and attention to detail of chef was fascinating to watch, and the waiting staff were polite and attentive. An intimate setting for a wonderful meal.

Be in Hana Matsuri was an unique experience! Amazing food, excellent service and attention. I certainly enjoyed and will recommend it for everyone. Thank you chef and staff team!

I love ordering sushi here, it's delicious!

Absurdly delicious, wonderful experience. The chef and rest of the staff were fun to chat with and very welcoming of folks who don't know the best practices and etiquette. One of the best meals I've ever had.

First time visiting a traditional Japanese sushi bar. Amazing food and the chef and staff were very attentive. Set menu gives a unique experience of the food that you may not order ordinarily. Finally amazing

a fantastic authentic Japanese restaurant . Beautiful fresh ingredients and attentive staff . One of the best dining experiences we have had . Highly highly recommend . Thanks so much

Great atmosphere, friendly staff and food... food was just amazing 👏 definitely will be going back .

The best Japanese sushi experience I have had. I had been wanting to go to Hana Matsuri for so long and finally went and it delivered beyond expectation. The Omakase menu was sublime, all ingredients were put together perfectly and the quality was absolutely on point. It's expensive of course, but worth it if you enjoy incredible food and a great experience. The chef was happy to explain dishes to use and any other questions.

food and expertise unlike any other we’ve experienced. a wonderfully unique and intimate evening with perfect service

Absolutely amazing experience. Delicious sushi, exemplary service and a wonderful night. The omakase course menu is superb and worth visiting for, as was the optional A5 wagyu course. A rather comprehensive drinks menu with a great variety of sake, plum wine and Japanese whiskies as well as more traditional western drinks. Stepping off a dark and rainy street in Leeds into what is easily recognisable as a very intimate and traditional Japanese sushi bar is surprising and welcome. The prep area is immaculately clean, the service by the wait staff polite, courteous and friendly, and the food prepared skillfully front and center. The drinks menu also includes a preface about omakase and sushi etiquette which is a nice introduction to anyone unsure or the ininitiated. I'm not surprised at all that this made the Michelin Guide in 2021 - well deserved and speaks volumes to the quality of the establishment.

Best sushi ever, worth every penny

Easily the best Japanese place I have been in the UK. They serve a very traditional style course called Omakase (which basically means chef's choice). It will be based on what ingredients are in season and what they are able to source freshest. Their printed menu during the meal had locations for every ingredient used! Complete accountability for where all of their ingredients have come from and I honestly think that's great. The restaurant itself is a small intimate place with 6 seats, centred around the chef who prepares every single dish right in front of you. Service was very good with the waiter being very attentive to us. Only thing which I would like to suggest the restaurant is perhaps more interaction between the head chef and the customers? I think it could be a language barrier, as he would talk to the staff in Japanese. However, one thing I liked in an omakase is some of the explanation of the dish or flavour profiles to look out for. For example, when they grated and served real fresh wasabi (compared to the fake green horseradish stuff at other places), maybe tell us why its so special. I remembered tidbits and explain to my partner that real wasabi loses its flavour a short time after grating so must be eaten fresh. But this coming from the chef would have enhanced the experience. Overall, I still loved my dinner experience. The food was carefully prepared and delicious. The best sushi I have had in the UK.

Simply sublime food. The restaurant looks so unassuming from the outside and we were not entirely sure it was open. Chef finishes the dishes behind a small counter where the diners are seated. The omakase menu is decided by Chef depending on the availability of the best fish and seafood on the day. Service takes around two hours. If you like sushi this will blow you away. I really enjoy Japanese cuisine. I have eaten in some very high end London Japanese restaurants over many decades but I have never had sushi as good as this. Booking is essential as Chef prepares for the number of diners booked and the counter is really small. Do go!

The best Sushi in Leeds, by far. In fact, one of the best restaurants

This is the second time visiting, however the first time was a few years ago before they changed to the Omakase set menu. Normally I wouldn't really spend £100+ pp on any meal or restaurant, however I did want to give this a try again based on my last experience here and I was pretty blown away this time. You definitely get a first class experience here - it's very intimate and only seats 6 guests per session. Watching Nakamura at work is an experience in itself and you can really tell he is a master at his craft. The food here as you can imagine by the reviews is excellent and hands down a quality over quantity type of style. Those who prefer bland large portions of food should stay away... As I still remember quite clearly a 2 star review was written a few years right before my first review here and how they mentioned that they got small portions and had to go to Papa Johns across the road after! I'm not sure this type of customer with limited pallet would enjoy this place. However if you're after amazing sushi, with top class service in a lovely intimate environment... Then this place is very much for you. Despite the cost, I would return and look to do fairly soon in the future.

The most amazing experience watching the chef prepare each dish in front of us. Each mouthful was absolutely delicious. The freshest fish and vegetables, some grown in the chef's own garden. The best meal I have eaten - possibly ever. I cannot rate it too highly.

The only Japanese restaurant ai would visit outside of Japan. The food is excellent. The staff are amazing and the produce first class. Dont hesitate to book thiz

Beautifully crafted menu, delicious food, brilliant service with a personalised atmosphere. All-round fantastic execution of Japanese food! Now one of my favourite restaurants in the UK, not just Yorkshire.

I took my partner here as he is a big foodie. Although I was initially hesitant due to the price I can honestly say it was worth it by a mile. My partner loved it of course but even I, who generally doesn't like fish, thoroughly enjoyed every single bite. I don't know if this is the case every time but we were given 21 different things to eat. I can see on some past reviews that not everyone is happy with only having the choice of the one set menu however I believe the chef/owner has definitely made the right decision here as it allows them to give the customer the best ingredients that they can get their hands on every time. Aside from the incredible food the atmosphere was wonderful also. With the place only having a handful of seats it was an intimate experience and I enjoyed watching the chef expertly prepare our next dishes right in front of me. All of the staff were very friendly and have done an amazing job at creating a gem of a restaurant. I dont have one bad thing to say about my experience and I can easily say it is the best Japanese food experience I have ever had.

Simply incredible. If you have an interest in sushi or food in general it is well worth the visit!

Sushi Bar HanaMatsuri is an unassuming, intimate, gem of an establishment. Today I experienced the Omakase menu. It is worth noting to anyone unfamiliar with the concept, that Omakase means “I’ll leave it to you”. In other words, the chef will prepare a series of dishes over the course of a meal combining the chef’s experience, knowledge and what product is in season. From my experience today I can say that it is clear that chef prioritises sourcing only fresh, seasonal, high quality ingredients. Having visited many Japanese restaurants and sushi bars across the UK I can say without a doubt, you should come to Sushi Bar HanaMatsuri if you want to experience high quality, authentic, Japanese sushi. Thankyou for your hospitality and for the delicious food. It was an absolute pleasure. Until next time!

Great service, great sushi. I think the sushi can be more delicious with better quality of fish. However, it might be because I was expecting more...

Absolutely wonderful food, just like being back in Japan

An amazing dinging experience, as always, from chef Nakamura. The restaurant is currently offering a daily ‘Omakase’ set-menu. As other reviewers point out this is easily the best sushi in Leeds and is the best sushi I’ve had in the UK. If you’re after an authentic taste of Japan with amazing flavour and attention to detail then book a table now.

Superb, discreet. A treat but still value for money. Best sushi I've had in Leeds by miles.

Might be the finest sushi restaurant in the country. It’s hard to imagine anything better.

I'm lucky enough to have visited Japan and this place is an absolute gem of an authentic Japanese sushi restaurant, tucked away in Meanwood. From the outside its modest looks and closed blinds give nothing away and certainly don't tempt you in. However, inside lies an experience that will transport you to Japan for an hour or two. You must pre-order your food because the priority here is freshest sashimi you can possibly find. Your ingredients are bought in especially for you. The chef/ owner specialises only in sushi (there is no ramen or tempura available) and that's what makes it amazing. We had a sashimi tasting menu which was mind blowing. The care and dedication lavished on each dish was obvious. The food is prepared directly in front of you (the theatre of watching is magical) and served seconds after it is finished. The Japanese government publishes a list of officially approved Japanese restaurants in Europe. This is one of only 10 outside London in the UK. Book now while you have the chance. Went back again this month (July 2020) and were the first "post lockdown" diners! Updated menu, still amazing. We think this restaurant deserves a Michelin star it's that good. It has already achieved an entry in the Michelin guide so don't wait around!

Excellent sushi, made right in front of you. Everything was so flavourful

Good food and atmosphere, a hidden gem

Really great local sushi restaurant in a very unassuming location. Go for the tasting menu and make sure to order this ahead of time

The wagyu beef was phenomenal. Expensive, but definately worth it!

Fantastic. Proper sushi prepared by actual Japanese chef.

Great Sushi Bar, a terrific experience, all very very very good.

The best experience ever! I brought my husband here for his 30th birthday and we had a great night. He was over the moon, you can truly experience a Japanese dinner. The finest Japanese ingredients and lovely atmosphere. Highly reccomended! Ps. You need to book quite in advance!

Hidden in suburban Leeds & unassuming from the outside with blinds down Japanese style The only thing missing is the noren curtain on the outside! Inside is pure traditional sushi prepared with style and skill. More expensive than some the now widely available pseudo-sushi but good value for the quality of the ingredients. These include real wasabi (fresh from a UK supplier) grated to order. Great selection of Japanese whisky, beers & sake.

Sushi was amazing! Best sushi I've ever had in the UK

Hidden in suburban Leeds & unassuming from the outside with blinds down Japanese style The only thing missing is the noren curtain on the outside! Inside is pure traditional sushi prepared with style and skill.The best Sushi I have tasted in the UK, it was also a great experience watching the chef prepare the sushi in front of us. The overall service was also very good and the staff giving attention to detail.

Incredible sushi and entertainment watching a master at work. I had waited to visit HanaMatsuri and saved it for a special occasion due to the fantastic reviews I had from friends. Going for my birthday this month was an incredible treat. Having loved sushi and missed great sushi since moving back from London but the quality here surpasses anything I have previously tried. I'm looking forward to returning soon for another special night. Thank you!

If you've done the "popular" Sushi places then unless you have been to Japan then trust me, you've not done Sushi. They have a dazzling array to choose from, it really is a feast for all your senses. Try it, go now, you can thank me later.

Authentic Japanese best in town.

We came here for an early dinner and had sushi set number 2 and the home made pickles with warm sake. It was lovely to be served by the chef and to see him making the food so skilfully. Everything we had was fresh and delicious, and there was definitely lots of food. I would highly recommend the experience of dining here. It was a truly memorable evening.

As good as the sushi I've had in Japan. Highly expert chef prepares sashimi and nagiri right in front of you (traditional style) and it is REALLY DELICOUS. not a cheap menu but definitely good value. I ate there two weeks ago and I can still remember how everything tasted! There is a lunch menu. 7 nagiri and rolls and miso was I think £33... Booking is essential and maximum party size 4.

This is the real deal when it comes to sushi. Small restaurant means the food is high quality. Not cheap, but that's because the fish is well-sourced.

Just drove all the way out here and there is a little sign stating they only take advance booking and it looks creepily closed. Will never bother with this place .

A true delight! Authentic Japanese sushi bar in the heart of Meanwood.

Quiet, max 6 seats. Awesome place for sushi. Pickled veg also a surprise

We had been recommended Hama matsuri as a place to try authentic Japanese food ahead of our upcoming holiday and we were very impressed. Walking inside on a hot Saturday night, we were immediately struck by the cool, calm atmosphere. Our waitress was really helpful in choosing our selection of Japanese dishes and we were served with an array of wonderful, fresh fish, tempura and sushi. There are lots more to try from the extensive menu so I think we will have to squeeze in another visit before we head to Osaka! Quick tip - booking is essential! Many people were turned away while we were eating.

Bedste madoplevelse vi længe har haft. Et japansk autentisk køkken med en yderst kompetent sushichef!

Perfect dining experience. Small, intimate atmosphere. Really attentive but not overbearing waiting staff and awesome to watch the food being prepared in front of us. The fatty tuna nigiri was unbelievable, highly recommended!

Best sushi bar in Leeds. Real sushi experience

Don’t judge a book by its cover. One could easily walk passed this place, but I would recommend going in as the sushi is impeccable and good selection of Japanese beers. Make sure you book to avoid disappointment.

The best sushi I have ever eaten. Every ingredient is so fresh and delicious, and the experience is just perfect. Can't wait to go again!

Great experience and great food. Would definitely recommend.

Website said restaurant opens at 17.00, went there with my family and person who worked there said that they are closed in a really bad manner.

They are not open and don't accept walk ins. Went to the restaurant, the waiter was sleeping on the bench and I asked them are you open they said no, it was at 17:37. There's a sign on the doors which says we don't accept walk ins and you can't order for takeaway because its says bookings only and when i walked in it was empty restaurant. The problem is they should advertise this on their google page because we traveled 30mins to the restaurant.

Fantastic food & service. A real treat to watch a craftsman at work. Thank you for a great experience.

Amazing, fresh, authentic sushi. Would recommend booking to avoid disappointment

Amazing food, great atmosphere (very calm, quiet music in the background), nice people - if you like sushi that's your place to go!

I love this place! The food is incredible. The atmosphere is wonderful and calming. The staff and lovely and friendly. Go!

Make sure you order at least 4 hours in advance for takeaway!

Fantastic place, fantastic food, staff and brilliant,

Aaaaamaaaazing!!! What an experience, what food! Just beautiful

Beautiful food & very friendly staff!

Mr Nakamura! Thanks for the excellent meal! Wishing you 1000 years of health so you could make more amazing sushi!

Great place to have sushi and sashimi

Some of the best sushi I've eaten outside of Japan (and inside too)

We were fortunate enough to celebrate a very special occasion at Kaoru's wonderful place. Locally, there is nowhere better to eat. The man is a genius.

Small authentic sushi restaurant. Good food but on the pricey side

Fantastic place. Modest and unassuming but serving up the freshest sushi hand made as you watch. Couldn't ask for better.

Absolutely delicious food and overall amazing experience. One million times worth it

Pretty sure this place is a portal to Japan. Our chef was an artist.

The best sushi I have ever had. Bar none.

A delight. Authentic food, decor, and service. Everything we tried, from the exquisite tuna belly nigiri to the humble pickled gourd maki, was beautifully made with skill and pride. Please don't change a thing.