Launched in Islington back in 1995, Japanese Canteen was one of the first to bring izakaya-style canteen food to the capital – and it now has a chain of outlets across the city. Expect a rush and a
scrum at lunchtime, with every seat taken, queues out the door and the kitchen working at full tilt. With extended opening hours and a drinks licence, this branch is also a full-blown restaurant
offering a much wider choice than most of its siblings. Bento boxes, donburi rice bowls, katsu curries, ramen noodles and the like are joined by a full range of sushi, maki rolls and sashimi, gua
bao (steamed savoury buns) and bibimbap (Korean-style rice hotpots), plus a host of starters and sides including dumplings, duck spring rolls and seaweed salad. To drink there are wines and beers
as well as cans and juices.