New Japanese izakaya MITSU to bring Tokyo-inspired dining and nightlife to Shoreditch

MITSU, a new Japanese restaurant and nightlife venue, will open its doors in Shoreditch, East London, this April. Located at 50 Willow Street, MITSU is co-founded by Steven Bonnington, who will also serve as General Manager. The concept draws inspiration from the izakaya culture of East Tokyo, aiming to blend traditional Japanese dining with the creative atmosphere of East London’s nightlife.

The restaurant’s kitchen will be led by Executive Chef Aaj Fernando. The menu is structured around classic izakaya dishes and cooking techniques, with a particular emphasis on robata grilling, nigiri, kushiyaki skewers, and kamameshi rice dishes. Early menu highlights include Spicy Edamame, Shishito Peppers, Gyoza, Chicken Karaage, Kushikatsu, and Hamachi Sashimi. Other offerings will feature wagyu, pork, and tamago sandos, as well as various tempura options including ebi, vegetables, and soft-shell crab. The robata grill will serve larger plates such as sirloin, Angus T-bone, hanger steak, and whole sea bass.

The venue’s design has been developed in collaboration with design studio Astet. The interior draws from East Tokyo street culture and features industrial textures alongside large-scale artistic elements. Guests will enter through a corridor of LED arches accompanied by music, leading into a space with high ceilings and dramatic drapery. The central bar is surrounded by semi-private dining areas, aiming to create a fully immersive experience.

MITSU’s drinks programme has been curated by Soul Shakers and features several collaborations. Notably, the restaurant will offer a Japanese-style sake produced in partnership with Kanpai Sake Brewery, a UK–Japan collaboration. Additionally, MITSU will serve Japanese whisky highballs on draft, in association with Suntory Whisky, as a first for London venues.

Music will play a significant role in the restaurant’s identity. DJs are scheduled to perform throughout the day and into the night, with sets influenced by East Tokyo’s underground music scene. The outdoor terrace will also be equipped with DJ decks and seating, allowing the musical atmosphere to extend beyond the interior space.

Food Desk

For further information and reservations, visit MITSU’s website here.