
Shot by a City Insiders curator.
Perched on the 7th floor of The Stratford hotel, Kokin offers a rare slice of refined Japanese dining in East London. Chef Daisuke Shimoyama brings his Hannah pedigree to this sleek space, where you'll find everything from delicate langoustine tartare on homemade tofu to A5 wagyu that melts on your tongue. The seven-floor height gives you proper views across the redeveloped Stratford skyline, making it a rare spot in East Village that feels genuinely special for a special occasion.
Refined Japanese dining with a view
Kokin is the kind of place you drive past on the way to Westfield and almost miss, but once you're on the 7th floor, it feels worlds away from the bustle below. Chef Daisuke Shimoyama's background at Hannah really shows in the precision of his approach – every dish is thoughtfully composed, from the silky anago chawanmushi to the perfectly balanced sabazushi that's become a signature. The set menus offer real value at £28-£90 depending on whether you're feeling modest or want to splurge on the wagyu and otoro option.
The space itself is understated but elegant, with a long bar running down one side and floor-to-ceiling windows that showcase Stratford's transformation over the past decade. Service is attentive without being fussy, and the wine list complements the Japanese focus well. It's not the most exciting venue in East London, but for serious Japanese food with a view, it's hard to beat in this part of town.