After an arduous week, of somewhat glacial weather – requiring these bitches to light all four of one’s Georgian fireplaces – OHHHH the pain! – how refreshing to end on a Japanese feast of cocktails and yakitori at the fabulous HOPE IZAKAYA.

Naturally, we’re kicking off our evening with a cheeky cocktail … a concoction called Shojo’s Pleasure: which, in tribute to a Japanese water spirit, combines whisky, creme de cassis, apple & honey to sumptuous effect.

Both sweet and smoky, with a hint of citrus, it’s stunning. As we gently imbibe [ well, throw back then immediately order another, along with a mountain of karaage chicken ] we must also pay tribute to the delicious atmos.

Playfully decorated – with an impressive collection of sake – it begins with a bar and its mixologist [ always a strong design choice ] followed by a yakitori chef barbecuing over hot coals, and finally the restaurant itself.

It’s here we’re announcing DING DING Round Two, as dive into the Bonsai – a dazzling mix of sherry, plum sake, absinthe & chilli liqueur – offering an intense, earthy vibe, and a burst of heat to finish. We absolutely LOVE this.

We’re also loving – not to mention devouring at an astonishing rate – the lush pan-fried Gyoza, juicy Tempura Prawns with the most divine tempura batter, and a superb Crab Roe Salad with refreshing bursts of citrus. OOOSH!

Wowed by taste and presentation – accompanying sauces also utterly on point – our next stop is a Rice Bowl of the most tender beef imaginable, with teriyaki sauce, and egg yolk to mix with the rice. WOOF!

Though naturally, we’ve saved the best until last. That’s right bitches: Yakitori!!! So, along with DING DONG Round Three – a sinful IWAKURA ACCOMPLISHMENT of gin, plum sake, green chartreuse & vanilla – IT IS TIME!!

Rolling off those aforementioned hot coals: an irresistible selection of Arabiki Sausage, Padron Peppers, Pork Belly & Leek, Lamb Rack, and the carnivorous celebration that is Beef Roll & Enoki Mushroom.

Filled with both Japanese bbq and absolute joy, we have just enough stamina to shout: BISH BOSH Round Four – so we can finish this sensational meal with a suitably strong Yuzu & Lycee Martini.

The ultimate pairing of sweet & sour, it – like everything else on the menu – is f**king magnificent. To HOPE IZAKAYA a very fond arigato, and here’s to the inevitable Round Five!