A distinctive Marylebone temaki counter delivering fresh, creative sushi and an engaging chef-led experience, though limited seating, brisk pacing, inconsistent seasoning and occasional service complaints temper the premium price.
Romeo San delivers strong food quality anchored by fresh ingredients and skilled technique, though inconsistent execution in flavor balance and temperature control prevents a higher grade. Service remains attentive and the modern Marylebone counter setting appeals to locals, but occasional lapses in consistency and the lack of standout distinction keep it from approaching grade A territory.
Romeo San is a compact, stylish Marylebone temaki counter where the chefs prepare each hand roll in front of you and pass it over at peak crispness. The prevailing feeling is intimate, lively and pleasantly theatrical: one regular described the counter as a small show, while many others return for the friendly chefs and quick delivery. It is a walk-in operation, so arriving early matters when the room fills. The cooking is creative contemporary Japanese rather than restrained traditional sushi, layering fresh fish with yuzu, shiso, gochujang, truffle, wagyu, uni and caviar. Most diners rave about the fish, crisp seaweed and dishes such as Truffle Crab, Seared Butter Fish and Spicy Tuna; a minority found the rolls over-seasoned, rice-heavy or too similar. The format is excellent for a quick elevated lunch, a date or solo dining, but the premium add-ons can turn a light visit into an expensive one, and some guests felt hurried through the meal. For families, this is better suited to adventurous older children than picky eaters. The current menu offers a vegan cucumber temaki and familiar seafood fillings, but no children's menu and few obviously child-oriented dishes; one vegetarian review also found the choices very limited. The counter seating and fast pace can be fun, but families should confirm flexibility before arriving.
Area vibe: Upscale, commercial-residential central London area known for shopping and boutiques.
Safety: Generally safe with good lighting and steady evening footfall from restaurants and hotels.
What's nearby: Near Oxford Street, Marylebone High Street, transport links (Bond Street/Marble Arch), boutique shops and hotels.
The best order balances standout rolls like Truffle Crab and Seared Butter Fish with a premium option such as Otoro Caviar.
Go early for the walk-in counter, expect a brisk meal, and budget carefully because premium fillings can make small portions expensive.
Expect a small, lively chef-led counter where the theatrical preparation is part of the appeal, though the pace can feel rushed.