Kioku Sake Bar by Endo -Leading London into a refined era of sake culture-

Located on the ground floor of the Raffles Hotel in Whitehall, a historic area in London known as a crossroads of British politics, Kioku Sake Bar stands as the world’s most sake-focused bar. Accompanying its namesake restaurant, Kioku Sake Bar embodies the vision and memories – kioku – of the renowned UK sushi master Kazutoshi Endo, celebrated for his artistry and authenticity.

In April 2024, Kioku Sake Bar opened amid much excitement and expectation, acting as a prelude to the highly anticipated launch of its flagship restaurant. At any given time, it carries no fewer than 120 sake varieties, often expanding to as many as 150. The breadth of its collection is remarkable, featuring exclusive labels unavailable anywhere else. Sourced from a wide range of regions, with diverse sake rice varieties and brewing techniques, it stands as one of the most comprehensive sake lists in Europe. And true to its concept, it remains the world’s most extensively stocked sake bar. With around 25 distinguished sakes available by the glass, guests are invited to explore a nuanced spectrum of flavours.

“There’s nowhere else quite like this” Endo reflects. “Even in Japan, bars dedicated to solely to sake are rare”

Watching Chef Endo speak about his bar, one can see his genuine delight.

“My goal was to create a space where people could truly appreciate exceptional sake—a place that not only celebrates its purest form and uncompromising authenticity but also offers something meaningful. The concept might seem unconventional, much like alternative music, but I believe it is essential and irreplaceable. My aim is to be a true specialist”

When Endo voices the word “specialist”, the weight of his legacy as a third-generation sushi master is unmistakable, carrying the gravitas and pride of his work.

However, the journey to opening was not without its challenges. “Can a sake-focused bar thrive in London? Should we stock wine as well? Is this really what people want?” Endo faced many differing opinions that often conflicted with his own vision. Each time, he patiently explained his reasoning, persuading others when necessary, and on occasion, stood firm in his convictions.

Beyond sake, the bar now also curates a refined selection of shochu, Japanese wines and whiskies, all sourced exclusively from Japan.

Kioku Sake Bar yet offers more than just a drink. Upon entering, one is immediately drawn to the latticework, inspired by traditional Japanese joinery, while the woven hemp screen suspended above the counter pays homage to sushi counter aesthetics. Gentle lighting softens the interplay of straight and curved lines, while sliding doors and hidden alcoves create intimate spaces reminiscent of Japan’s narrow alleyways. It echoes in harmony with a pristine white porcelain Shuwan cup, its sheer sake catching the last of the day’s light as it slips through the bar’s wide windows. — an unspoken invitation to pause.

The heartbeat of Kioku Sake Bar is its turntable, spinning vinyl records that fill the air with the soulful sounds of jazz, funk and swing. Here, heritage intertwines with contemporary sensibilities.

“This space was inspired by Japan’s listening bars” explains Natsuki Kikuya, a renowned advocate for Japanese sake in the UK with over 20 years of experience. Known for her keen eye and widely acclaimed expertise, she curated the bar’s collection with her signature precision.

“We wanted to foster an atmosphere where sake and music come together effortlessly. My father’s generation would spend hours in jazz cafés, sipping a single cup of coffee and losing themselves in the music. Kioku Sake Bar aims to recreate that kind of immersive experience”

Natsuki highlights the dynamic changes happening in the world of sake, where young brewers are experimenting with red rice, innovative polishing techniques and lower-alcohol varieties.

“The transformation of sake in Japan today is truly remarkable” she says. “Yet, this creativity and energy haven’t fully reached the rest of the world. Here in the UK, I’d love for more people to discover these groundbreaking and exciting expressions of Japanese sake. At Kioku Sake Bar, we strive to bridge that gap, bringing the cutting edge of sake craftsmanship to London”

Head Sommelier Anthony Yukio invites guests into the story of sake, tailoring recommendations to individual tastes.

“Do you enjoy koshu?” he might ask, referring to aged sake known for its sherry-like complexity.

“I’m not really a fan of koshu,” the guest admits.

Anthony nods, unfazed. “I see” he says, his hands already reaching for the bottles behind the counter. “But sometimes, it’s just about finding the right balance”

He uncorks a bottle of koshu with a practiced hand, the rich, amber liquid catching the soft light. Beside it, a junmai ginjo—floral and lively—sits waiting. With the ease of a composer crafting a symphony, Anthony pours some measures of each into a glass, the liquids swirling together like two voices in harmony. The koshu brings complexity, while the junmai ginjo adds a refreshing touch.

The guest takes a sip, and in that instant, discovers a flavour layered with richness and unexpected surprises. Anthony smiles. “Sake” he says, “has a way of surprising you”

For those hesitant to dive straight into traditional sake, the bar also offers light sparkling sake and sake-inspired cocktails. The “Wasabi” cocktail blends vodka, cucumber, kimoto junmai ginjo and British-grown wasabi for a bold and refreshing experience. The “Daikon” cocktail combines yuzu and shiso distillate, gin, ginjo sake, and pickled daikon radish, creating a unique and harmonious balance. It has been around 20 years since sake cocktails first appeared in London, and the times have evolved.

Sake brewing was recognised by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage in late 2024, a testament to its enduring significance. It represents a tradition honed over generations, while also marking the beginning of a new chapter yet to unfold.

What drives this forward?

At the heart of this lies not just tradition, but also the memories it inspires. It is “Kioku”.