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Kekaki IzakayaB+Worth Trying

Name: Kekaki Izakaya
Address: Arch 9, Deptford Market Yard, London SE8 4BX, London, United Kingdom
Rating: 4.7

Arch 9, Deptford Market Yard, London SE8 4BX · Japanese restaurant, Asian restaurant, Izakaya restaurant · 4.7/5 Google (358 reviews)

Reservations · Delivery · Takeout · Outdoor seating

Lively, creative izakaya in Deptford serving standout gyoza, karaage, and fusion-leaning rolls; great food but service speed and hospitality can wobble at busy times.

Why it gets a B+ for overall quality

Kekaki Izakaya delivers solid neighborhood dining with excellent gyoza, tempura, and grilled skewers that justify its loyal following and 4.7-star reputation. However, variable execution on rolls and occasional missed dishes combined with service that ranges from warm to stretched during peak times prevents grade A territory. The lively Market Yard setting and strong value proposition make it a worthwhile destination for casual izakaya dining, though not among the region's premier establishments.

Restaurant Summary

Tucked under the arches by Deptford Station, Kekaki buzzes with the kind of energy that makes quick bites turn into long hangs. Guests describe a cosy, lively room and the spillover of covered outdoor tables where plates land in waves. One diner put it simply: "The dumplings were juicy and the prawns crackled with a light crunch." Service ranges from warm and welcoming to a bit stretched at peak times, especially when the grill is backed up. The cooking leans contemporary izakaya with confident fusion touches: think tempura prawn rolls with spicy miso, karaage with gochujang mayo, and skewers glazed in teriyaki or yakiniku. Purists may quibble at the modern rolls, but gyoza, tempura, and robata skewers win consistent praise. It suits diners who enjoy shareable plates, a casual pace, and bolder flavors rather than strict tradition. Families should find it approachable: kids often like karaage, steamed rice, sweetcorn balls, and mochi. There is no kids menu, portions are shareable, and some sauces carry heat or tang, so choose gently seasoned items. Space can be tight indoors and pram placement may be limited, but the outdoor area helps when weather cooperates.

At a Glance

Excellent gyoza, tempura, and grilled skewers
Lively izakaya vibe in Deptford Market Yard
Service can be slow or brusque at peak times
Drinks, especially beer, feel pricey to some
Creative/fusion menu - not traditional comfort food

What Sets It Apart

creative_fusion_izakaya_dishes
market_yard_arch_setting
strong_gyoza_and_tempura_execution

What People Love

Juicy, well-seared gyoza with bright sauces
Crisp, delicate tempura prawns
Warm neighborhood vibe with outdoor seating
Reasonable food prices for quality

Points of Concern

Service speed and sequencing can lag during busy times; some report long gaps between dishes
A few reports of curt or inflexible interactions around seating and house rules
Beer and some drinks priced on the high side for the area
For innovation 7+, expect creative flavors rather than strict tradition; conservative palates may prefer simpler items

Service & Dining Experience

Service StyleHybrid Average Cost£24-38 per person ReservationsRecommended

What to Order

Start with Miso Soup or Edamame, then share Gyoza and one Robata skewer per person
Order one roll like Ebi Dragon to sample the fusion side; add Vegetable Tempura to balance textures
Finish with Mochi for a light dessert

Perfect For

Casual date with shared plates
Neighborhood dinner with friends
Solo bite before or after a train
Adventurous eaters who enjoy fusion twists

Location Insights

Area: Vibrant market-arch setting with indie food and drink spots, popular with locals and destination diners on weekends.

Safety: Generally safe, well-trafficked around the market yard and station with evening footfall.

Nearby: Adjacent to Deptford Station, surrounded by bars, cafes, and other arches with outdoor seating clusters.

DeptfordA vibrant, eclectic neighborhood known for its artistic scene, market culture, and ongoing urban transformation, with a dynamic dining and cultural landscape

Deptford Market YardA repurposed railway arch complex featuring artisan food vendors, independent restaurants, and creative spaces, representing Deptford's innovative urban renewal

Practical Information

Opening Hours

Monday Tuesday17:00–22:00 Wednesday17:00–22:00 Thursday12:00–15:00, 17:00–22:00 Friday12:00–15:00, 17:00–22:00 Saturday12:00–15:00, 17:00–22:00 Sunday12:00–20:00

Available: Reservations, Delivery, Takeout, Outdoor seating

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