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Kushi-ya: Nottingham’s Premier Japanese Kushiyaki Experience

Discover Nottingham’s hidden gem for authentic Japanese kushiyaki skewers and inventive small plates in a stylish, modern setting.

4.7

Kushi-ya is a vibrant Japanese kushiyaki restaurant nestled in Nottingham’s city centre, celebrated for its expertly grilled skewers, inventive small plates, and a warm, modern atmosphere. With a focus on izakaya-style dining, it offers a diverse menu featuring standout dishes like chicken tsukune with egg yolk and prawn toast, alongside an exciting cocktail and sake selection. Its stylish interior and outdoor terrace make it a unique culinary gem in Nottingham.

A brief summary to Kushi-ya

  • 1A Cannon Ct, Long Row W, Nottingham, NG1 6JE, GB
  • +441159411369
  • Visit website
  • Duration: 1 to 2.5 hours
  • Mid ranged
  • Environment icon Indoor
  • Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
  • Wednesday 12 pm-2 pm
  • Thursday 12 pm-2 pm
  • Friday 12 pm-2 pm
  • Saturday 12 pm-3 pm

Local tips

  • Try the prawn toast—it's a signature dish that perfectly balances savoury and crunchy textures.
  • Book ahead for dinner, especially on weekends, as the restaurant is popular and seating can be limited.
  • Explore the cocktail menu, particularly the unique gochujang Old-Fashioned for a spicy twist.
  • Visit during lunchtime for a more casual, walk-in friendly experience with sub-£20 options.
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Kushi-ya location weather suitability

  • Weather icon Any Weather
  • Weather icon Mild Temperatures
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A Culinary Haven for Kushiyaki Lovers

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.

Signature Dishes and Flavours

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.

Atmosphere and Design

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.

Drinks and Desserts to Complement the Meal

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.

Service and Dining Experience

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.

Location and Accessibility

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.

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