A charming, cat-themed Japanese cafe in Exmouth Market serving authentic comfort food, with standout service and great vegan options at moderate prices.
nécco delivers solid neighborhood dining through excellent food quality and outstanding service attentiveness that create a genuinely welcoming experience. The lively Exmouth Market setting and thoughtful menu inclusivity (extensive vegan and gluten-free options) distinguish it from typical Japanese cafes, though occasional consistency variations and service speed fluctuations during busy periods prevent grade A territory. A reliable, friendly spot that exceeds typical restaurant standards in the area.
Step into nécco and you'll find a whimsical slice of Tokyo in the heart of Exmouth Market, complete with playful cat-themed decor and a menu that balances Japanese comfort food with a few creative twists. The vibe is cozy and casual, perfect for a relaxed meal with friends or family. Reviewers rave about the attentive, genuinely friendly staff who go out of their way to make guests feel welcome—one group even got the whole team in for a photo! Service is a consistent highlight, and the Exmouth Market setting adds a lively, social energy, especially on sunny days when outdoor tables are in demand.The culinary approach here leans classic Japanese cafe fare, with a focus on familiar favorites like karaage crispy chicken, donburi, and takoyaki, but also offers surprisingly robust vegan and gluten-free options—a rarity for this cuisine. Portions are generally satisfying, and prices are moderate for central London, with most mains under £15 and only a few premium dishes above £20. The menu's playful touches (kimchi tofu, vegan prawn tempura) keep things interesting without straying too far from tradition. It's a great spot for those seeking authentic flavors without the formality or price tag of high-end sushi bars.For families with kids: nécco is a solid choice. The menu features plenty of approachable options—think chicken katsu, curry, noodles, and even fun desserts like Sakura Mochi. Several reviews mention happy younger diners, and the casual, colorful atmosphere is welcoming for all ages. While the restaurant doesn't have a dedicated kids' menu, the variety and flexibility make it easy to find something for picky eaters. Just be aware that it can get lively (and a bit noisy) during peak hours, so early evenings or lunch may be best for families.
Area vibe: Trendy, lively market street popular with young professionals, students, and creative types; casual, social vibe.
Safety: Generally safe, well-lit, and busy with foot traffic day and evening; low risk area.
What's nearby: Surrounded by independent cafes, bars, and restaurants; close to offices, residential flats, and City University.
Karaage and takoyaki are safe starters, then pick a donburi or the Deluxe kaisen chirashi for a showier main.
It’s casual but gets noisy at peak times, reservations help and watch out for some small lunch or premium portions.
There’s a surprisingly broad set of vegan and gluten-free dishes, from starters to mains like the tofu special and vegetable curry.