THE HEART OF IZAKAYA

Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park, London unveiled a new dining concept, The Aubrey London (+44 20 72352000), as part of its latest renovation programme. Replacing Bar Bouloud, The Aubrey is described as “an eccentric izakaya” with two distinctive bar experiences and Japanese cuisine. Drinks lie at the heart of izakaya, with signature and seasonal cocktails created by bar director Pietro Rizzo. With a focus on sake, varieties on offer come from emerging breweries as well as rare and unusual releases for those more familiar with Japan’s national drinks, such as Masumi – a sparkling sake – and Sohomare. The food menu, meanwhile, draws on the classical techniques of edomae sushi, tempura and robata. Japanese Oyster and The Aubrey’s own-label caviar start the menu, along with interesting bar snacks such as Charcoal Chicken Karaage with yuzu mayo or Crab Korokke with tonyu béchamel and kani miso.