Kushi-ya, Nottingham Travel Guide

Kushi-ya, whose name means 'skewer-shop', is a standout Japanese restaurant specializing in kushiyaki—grilled skewers of meat, seafood, and vegetables. Located along a gated walkway off a side street in Nottingham’s city centre, it has become renowned for its meticulous preparation and bold flavours. The menu centers around izakaya-style small plates and skewers, offering a dynamic dining experience that encourages sharing and tasting a variety of dishes.

The restaurant’s chicken tsukune, served with a rich egg yolk dip, and the prawn toast—mini barrels of toast filled with a prawn mixture and topped with furikake and savoury mayo—are among the most celebrated dishes. Other highlights include beef with black garlic mustard, duck hearts, and pork shoulder served with condiments. The food is praised for its balance of textures and tastes, from crunchy to soft and sweet to savoury, often featuring subtle Japanese and Korean influences.

Kushi-ya’s interior combines blond wood and dark-blue tiles with large windows that flood the space with natural light, creating a modern yet inviting setting. The outdoor terrace provides a pleasant spot to enjoy meals during warmer months. The design is minimalist with a focus on comfort, reflecting the restaurant’s ethos of delivering a polished but relaxed dining experience.

The drinks menu includes an exciting range of cocktails, sake, Japanese whiskies, and Koshu wine. Notable cocktails include the gochujang Old-Fashioned, blending whisky with pineapple rum and gochujang-honey syrup. Desserts like the tiramisu-inspired “tira-miso” offer a unique twist with a subtle hint of miso, showcasing the kitchen’s inventive approach to traditional flavours.

While the food quality is highly praised, some guests note occasional service hiccups, such as timing issues with dish arrivals. Nonetheless, the staff are generally helpful and knowledgeable, contributing to a welcoming atmosphere. Kushi-ya maintains a balance between casual and refined, making it suitable for both relaxed meals and special occasions.

Situated at 1A Cannon Court, Long Row West, Kushi-ya is easily accessible within Nottingham’s city centre. Its location along a quiet gated walkway offers a sense of discovery, akin to traditional izakayas tucked away in Japanese cities. The restaurant keeps some tables free for walk-ins, especially for lunches under £20, encouraging spontaneous visits.