Seemor
ImaB+Worth Trying
16 Exmouth Market, London EC1R 4QE
· Japanese restaurant, Vegan restaurant, Vegetarian restaurant
· 4.9/5 Google (953 reviews)
Reservations · Delivery · Takeout · Outdoor seating
Inventive vegetarian/vegan Japanese sushi with standout hospitality; great for celebrations, but pricing and occasional service bottlenecks surprise some diners.
Why it gets a B+ for overall quality
Ima excels with creative vegetarian sushi that impresses both plant-based and omnivorous diners, paired with genuinely thoughtful service marked by celebratory touches like birthday hats and Polaroids. However, variable execution during busy periods—including delays and occasional errors—prevents grade A territory, while tight seating and modest ambiance limit destination appeal. A worthwhile neighborhood gem for adventurous eaters seeking inventive plant-forward dining.
Restaurant Summary
On Exmouth Market, Ima feels warm and bustling—a cozy spot where staff often mark birthdays with hats, a candle, and even a Polaroid. One guest summed it up: "Service felt genuinely caring, and the rolls looked like little artworks." The room can be tight and, in winter, those near the door felt the chill, but the tone stays celebratory and kind. The cooking leans inventive plant-based sushi more than purist tradition. Think black cod and crab reimagined with vegetables, butternut squash on toast, and colorful platters that win over veg and non-veg diners alike. Fried starters divide opinion—fun for some, heavy for others—while a la carte noodles and curries read as better value than seasonal set menus. Expect creative flavors and helpful guidance from servers. Families should know the food skews adventurous. Kids who enjoy simple maki, udon, or curry rice will find options, though there is no explicit kids menu. If you need very plain choices, confirm before booking; otherwise, expect veg-forward comfort with room for pickier eaters in the simpler dishes.
At a Glance
- Exceptionally creative vegetarian/vegan sushi that delights veg and non-veg diners
- Thoughtful service with playful birthday touches (hats, Polaroid, dessert)
- Peak-time service strain (delays, missing items) and tight, chilly seating near door
- Special-event set menus can feel pricey or inflexible
- Creative/fusion menu - not traditional comfort food
What Sets It Apart
- fully_vegetarian_japanese_sushi
- playful_birthday_extras
- creative_plant_based_reinterpretations
What People Love
- Playful birthday surprises and kind staff
- Vibrant, imaginative sushi presentations
- Clear vegan labeling and lots of choices
- Set menus that showcase many bites in one go
Points of Concern
- Peak crowds lead to slower or inconsistent service for some tables
- Fried items can taste heavy; some rolls feel similar across flavors
- Special-date set menus may be the only option and feel expensive
- Review patterns show signs of potential manipulation (staff name repetition, influencer buzz) which may not reflect every visit
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleTable Service
Average Cost£24-34 per person
ReservationsRecommended
What to Order
- For best value, pair a £12-14 noodle or curry with a £7-9 salad; add one maki for variety.
- Vegetarians can request cheese-containing rolls; vegans should confirm swaps easily available.
Perfect For
- A birthday date with plant-based flair
- Veg or vegan friends craving inventive sushi
- Adventurous eaters who love playful plating
- Small celebrations where service adds a personal touch
Location Insights
Area: Bustling pedestrian market street with indie eateries; suits date nights, casual celebrations, and vegan diners.
Safety: Generally safe, active foot traffic day and night; occasional queues at peak times.
Nearby: Near offices, design studios, and residential blocks; close to Farringdon and Angel.
ClerkenwellClerkenwell is renowned for its trendy dining scene, featuring a mix of traditional pubs, modern eateries, and artisanal food shops. The area has a lively social atmosphere with a strong presence of design studios and tech startups, attracting a hip and professional crowd. It balances historic charm with contemporary urban living, making it a popular destination for both locals and visitors seeking quality dining experiences.
Exmouth MarketExmouth Market is a distinct micro-neighborhood within Clerkenwell known for its pedestrian-friendly street lined with independent cafes, restaurants, and boutique shops. It has a vibrant daytime and early evening dining scene, popular for casual lunches and after-work gatherings. The market street fosters a community feel with a focus on artisanal and international cuisine.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday12:00–15:00, 17:00–22:00
Tuesday12:00–15:00, 17:00–22:00
Wednesday12:00–22:30
Thursday12:00–22:30
Friday12:00–22:30
Saturday12:00–22:30
Sunday12:00–22:00
Available: Reservations, Delivery, Takeout, Outdoor seating
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