Seemor
Sumi RestaurantA-Worth Trying
157 Westbourne Grove, London W11 2RS
· Japanese restaurant, Sushi restaurant
· 4.5/5 Google (595 reviews)
Reservations · Outdoor seating
Sumi delivers refined Japanese cuisine with standout sushi and rice bowls in a chic Notting Hill setting, but expect high prices and small portions.
Why it gets an A- for overall quality
Sumi Restaurant delivers exceptional sushi quality and outstanding ambiance in a refined Notting Hill setting, earning solid A-grade performance. However, quality inconsistency across visits and mixed recent feedback prevent it from reaching grade A territory, while premium pricing relative to portion size limits broader appeal. Strong execution in core dimensions makes it competitive with the area's better neighborhood restaurants.
Restaurant Summary
Sumi Restaurant brings a refined slice of Japanese dining to Notting Hill, blending premium sushi and creative rice bowls with a chic, minimalist ambiance. The open kitchen and beautifully plated dishes set the stage for a meal that feels both special and approachable. Diners rave about the freshness of the fish—especially the otoro, scallop, and signature gohan bowls—while the matcha mille crepe provides a sweet finish that’s as photogenic as it is delicious. Culinarily, Sumi leans into a contemporary Japanese approach, offering both classic nigiri and inventive hand rolls, with premium ingredients like wagyu and caviar for those seeking a splurge. The menu is not vast, but it’s thoughtfully curated, with vegan starters and salads alongside high-end seafood and beef. This is a spot for those who appreciate quality over quantity—portions are on the smaller side, and prices reflect the premium sourcing and central London location. Service is generally warm and knowledgeable, though a few guests have felt rushed or encountered minor order mix-ups. For families, Sumi is more welcoming than many upscale sushi spots. At least one review describes picky children "eating everything," and the menu includes simple vegan and fish dishes that are approachable for younger palates. Still, the high prices and sophisticated flavors may not suit every family, so those with adventurous eaters will fare best. The reality check: while some reviews mention limited options, the current menu offers a surprising number of vegan and kid-friendly starters, making it a viable choice for family outings—just be prepared for the bill.
At a Glance
- Sushi and rice bowls feature top-quality ingredients and beautiful presentation.
- Chic, lively Notting Hill setting with open kitchen and outdoor seating.
- Portions are small for the price; expect to pay premium London rates.
- Service can feel rushed or impersonal during busy times.
- Creative/fusion menu - not traditional comfort food; limited options for conservative palates.
What Sets It Apart
- open_kitchen
- premium_sushi
- signature_gohan_bowls
- chic_notting_hill_location
What People Love
- The melt-in-your-mouth otoro and scallop nigiri
- Signature gohan bowls that are both comforting and refined
- Beautiful plating and Instagram-worthy desserts
- Friendly, knowledgeable staff who guide you through the menu
- The chic, lively Notting Hill ambiance
Points of Concern
- Portions are consistently described as small, especially relative to price.
- Some diners feel rushed or pressured to order quickly, particularly during peak hours.
- Service inconsistencies: while many praise the staff, a minority report order mix-ups or lack of problem resolution.
- Pricing is genuinely expensive (£26+ mains, £8-12 desserts), which may surprise casual diners.
- Limited options for conservative palates or picky eaters—menu leans creative/fusion.
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleTable Service
Average Cost£48-65 per person
ReservationsRecommended
What to Order
- Try the Mushroom Gohan (£26) or Agedashi Tofu (£7) for vegan options.
- For a splurge, order the Japanese A4 Wagyu (£100) or Imperial Caviar (£60).
- Families can share a selection of vegan starters and a gohan bowl for a more balanced meal.
- Desserts like the Matcha Mille Crepe (£12) are highly recommended.
Perfect For
- Sushi lovers seeking premium fish and creative hand rolls
- Date nights or special occasions in a stylish setting
- Foodies looking for contemporary Japanese cuisine
- Families with adventurous eaters
Location Insights
Area: Trendy, upscale, and cosmopolitan; Notting Hill attracts affluent locals, young professionals, and international visitors.
Safety: Generally very safe, well-lit, and maintained; high foot traffic, especially evenings and weekends.
Nearby: Surrounded by boutique shops, cafes, and other restaurants; close to Portobello Road and residential streets.
Notting HillA stylish and eclectic neighborhood famous for its colorful houses, boutique shops, and diverse dining scene. Known for its artistic heritage and cosmopolitan atmosphere, with a mix of high-end restaurants and casual eateries.
Westbourne GroveA chic shopping and dining street featuring designer boutiques, trendy cafes, and sophisticated restaurants, representing the quintessential Notting Hill lifestyle.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday17:30–21:45
Tuesday12:00–15:00, 17:30–21:45
Wednesday12:00–15:00, 17:30–21:45
Thursday12:00–21:45
Friday12:00–21:45
Saturday12:00–21:45
Sunday12:00–21:30
Available: Reservations, Outdoor seating
View full analysis on Seemor →