Hibagon Sushi & Grill

A Japanese restaurant, sushi bar and grill that traverses territory less well-known in London, Hibagon’s offering is a sublime addition to the restaurant scene in Forest Hill and Sydenham. Serving traditional Japanese cuisine from traditionally appointed premises on Kirkdale, Hibagon is a standout eatery in the local area, and one for which reservations are a must. Dine in and indulge in ramen, Japanese curry, immaculately prepared bento boxes and supreme sushi.

The long and carefully considered menu at Hibagon Sushi & Grill begins with hot appetisers like traditional hirata buns, filled with barbecued pork, chicken or salmon, steamed and served with wasabi mayo. These little Japanese dumplings, along with a bowl of salted edamame and a delicate porcelain cup of sake (the Mio sparkling sake from Nada is the perfect aperitif) are the perfect prelude to a perfect bit of informal Japanese dining in this corner of southeast London. It’s Hibagon’s less-than-usual offering that makes its Forest Hill restaurant, best accessed from afar via Sydenham station, a popular destination.

Sample Japanese beers from famous breweries like Asahi, Kirin, or Sapporo, or go more refined with a choice from Hibagon Sushi & Grill’s extensive selection of premium Japanese whisky (Nikka, Yamakazi), Hakushika’s Gingo Nama sake or junmai sake from Nanbu Bijin. Shochu and umeshu (plum wine) are also perfect accompaniment to the feast to follow. Tempura and salmon tartare or a Japanese-style ceviche are other ways to wind up to the main event, while ramen, bento boxes, donburi and curry satisfy the lunchtime crowd. Finally, it’s Hibagon’s delectable selection of artisanal sushi and sashimi that has made the restaurant’s Kirkdale premises, on the border of London’s Forest Hill and Sydenham, such a hotspot for fans of Japanese cuisine.