RESTAURANTS • First Word
The Skinny: Opened last month, Romeo San is a walk-in only temaki spot inspired by handroll bars in Japan and Los Angeles. It shares owners with Le Relais de Venise L'Entrecôte down the street, another restaurant with a short menu and no reservations.
The Vibe: Sleek and minimalist, pairing concrete and wood, true to Japanese interiors, with decorative red lights on the sparse walls and an upbeat playlist mitigating the austerity. There are no tables, just 24 counter seats in front of two chefs. Rather than a leisurely meal, it’s geared towards a quick lunch or dinner, as your handrolls appear in rapid succession (my lunch lasted less than 30 minutes).
The Food: Temaki options like yuzu salmon and truffled crab are offered either individually or as a set menu (between three and six rolls). Caviar is on offer as an add-on for all of the handrolls and there are specials with Wagyu and uni. Dessert is cheesecake mochi.
The Drink: There’s a short bar list — two types of sake and the Japanese beer Asahi in alcoholic and N/A forms — as well as a few sodas and green tea.
The Verdict: A very nice addition to Marylebone, particularly for the lunch crowd who wants high-quality food without a fuss or a long wait. –Emily Zemler
→ Romeo San (Marylebone) • 38 George St • Mon-Thu 12-230p & 5-930p, Fri-Sat 1230-3p, 530-10p • Walk-ins only.