UMU, a hidden gem nestled in the heart of London, boasts a rich history spanning over two decades. Despite not being the latest trendy spot in the city, UMU has managed to retain its Michelin star status for eight consecutive years. Executive chef Ryo Kamatsu, with his decade-long tenure at UMU, reflects on his journey from Argentina to Japan and the profound impact it has had on his culinary expertise. His training at Kaiseki Ichimonji was nothing short of intense, shaping him into the chef he is today.
Blending Tradition with Innovation
Kaiseki, a traditional Japanese multi-course haute cuisine, epitomizes the essence of Japanese culinary arts. UMU impeccably delivers the essence of Kaiseki through its meticulously crafted dishes that showcase the harmony of seasonal ingredients. Kamatsu’s experiences at Izakaya Sakabukuro and Chizza played a pivotal role in honing his palate and refining his culinary skills. When Kamatsu took over as head chef at UMU in 2014, he continued to build on the foundation laid by his predecessors, focusing on top-quality ingredients and approachable flavors while preserving the restaurant’s original essence.
With the rising demand for sake in the UK, UMU has placed a significant emphasis on elevating its drinks pairings. Head sake sommelier Ryan Johnson works closely with Kamatsu to curate perfect pairings that complement the flavors of UMU’s dishes. The meticulous process of pairing involves individual tastings and testing, ensuring that each dish is harmoniously matched with the right sake or wine. This attention to detail sets UMU apart as a restaurant committed to enhancing the overall dining experience for its patrons.
UMU’s commitment to tradition is evident in its menu, which highlights the five traditional cooking techniques – raw, steamed, grilled, fried, and simmered. While some innovative practices are incorporated to enhance certain dishes, UMU’s dedication to preserving authentic Japanese culinary traditions sets it apart from other Michelin-starred establishments. The restaurant’s team of locally-trained chefs embodies Kamatsu’s vision of evolving and spreading Japanese food culture beyond traditional sushi offerings.
As UMU embarks on its next chapter, Kamatsu’s unwavering commitment to evolving and training new chefs to carry forward the legacy of Japanese cuisine shines through. The Kaiseki menu at UMU serves as a testament to the perfect blend of tradition and innovation, showcasing dishes like Cornish lobster with tokoroten and Welsh lamb with smoked aubergine. UMU has achieved the delicate balance that many restaurants aspire to – a fusion of tradition and innovation executed with precision and passion.
UMU stands as a beacon of culinary excellence in London, offering diners a unique and unforgettable dining experience. From its traditional Kaiseki dishes to its innovative pairings and locally-inspired team, UMU exemplifies the essence of Japanese cuisine in a vibrant and contemporary setting. As you seek out UMU’s blink-and-you-miss-it entrance on Bruton Place, prepare to embark on a culinary journey unlike any other.
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