NOT STAYING IN: ROKA - Beauty And The Dirt

by Brooke Varney

Roka in Aldwych.

We must admit, as much as we love traditional English pub faire and pizza, sometimes it’s nice to branch out and try something a little exotic. Situated on Charlotte Street, in Canary Wharf, Mayfair, and a brand new location in Aldwych, Roka serves up contemporary Japanese Robatayaki cuisine that is absolutely divine. The Aldwych House restaurant-cum-bar location is the micro-chain’s largest, and features a rustic yet modern ambience created with wood and stone. Serving up sushi and sashimi, the restaurant also offers other traditional Japanese faire, including featured menu items Pure Japanese Wagyu beef tartar, smoked soya sauce, wasabi and Nori crackers, Langoustine and cod cheek skewers, shiso and ume boshi, and for dessert, Hokkaido style Japanese cheesecake with crispy apple wafer. As for the drinks, expect Micronesia-style cocktails inspired by the tropical, Pacific islands of Japan. Whether you’re looking to enjoy after-work drinks, date night, or a night out with girlfriends, this is the perfect place to do it.