A Culinary Tour of Asia in Mayfair
Writing about a passion is never a chore, and for me, that passion is food—as you’ve likely guessed. Returning to Novikov for a second visit was a delight. My first experience celebrated the finest Italian cuisine, but this time, I explored their Asian restaurant. Asia’s vibrant culinary heritage, with its bold flavours and diverse traditions, is integral to its culture, and Novikov’s Asian offering promises to bring that excitement to the heart of Mayfair.
Stepping back into Novikov feels like visiting an old friend. The warm welcome from Olga at reception instantly puts you at ease. The Asian restaurant, much like its Italian counterpart, centres around a striking food market. A dazzling display of fresh produce—including bream, bass, prawns, crabs, and lobster—captivates the eye and is a foodie’s paradise. The restaurant’s sleek, modern dark décor elegantly frames this vibrant market.
The menu, with its strong Japanese and Chinese influences, is extensive and might feel daunting to newcomers. On our visit to the Asian restaurant, my wife Leigh and I opted for the easy route and sought guidance. After a brief discussion about our preferences, we left it up to Sebastian, our waiter. As you’ll see below, this was a wise choice.
Our Asian Feast
Here’s what we enjoyed:
- Yellowfin Tuna Sashimi
- Sushi: Crispy Salmon & Cheese Rolls
- Baby Salt & Pepper Squid
- Dim Sum: Spicy Prawn Money Bags and Lobster Yuzu
- Wagyu Tacos
- Prawns Szechuan Style / Steamed Seabass with Soy & Ginger
- Special Fried Rice
First up, the Yellowfin Tuna Sashimi was a revelation. Infused with lime, it awakened the senses, signalling that something extraordinary was to come. We were told this dish is a popular starting point for regulars.
The Crispy Salmon & Cheese Rolls were a perfect example of why it pays to trust your waiter. I love sushi, but I would never have chosen these based on the menu description—crispy salmon paired with a cheddar cheese sauce sounded unlikely. Yet, combined with pickled ginger and wasabi, they were sensational, a true classic. I can’t wait to experience them again soon!
The Baby Salt & Pepper Squid, served alongside, could have been overshadowed by the sushi but held its own with ease. Perfectly cooked, it was tender and bursting with flavour.
Dim sum was a highlight I was eager to try, though Leigh was less enthusiastic. We opted for Spicy Prawn Money Bags and Lobster Yuzu. The prawn dumplings, tied at the top like little money bags, delivered a gentle spicy kick with a lingering aftertaste. Onto the Lobster Yuzu pockets of joy, the sweet lobster paired beautifully with fresh yuzu, and the rice flour cases were light and gelatinous—best in class. To my delight, Leigh loved them and is already keen to return for more. Thank you, Novikov, for converting Leigh to the delights of dim sum, I will be forever grateful.
The Wagyu Tacos, served alongside the dim sum, were a surprise. How these Mexican-inspired tortillas found their way onto an Asian menu is a mystery, and before you ask, yes, I should have asked how this Mexican favourite made the menu. However, from an eating perspective, they were sensational and clearly very popular, seeming completely at home next to dim sum. If Wagyu beef isn’t your thing, Novikov offers three other tacos: fish, chicken, and vegetarian.
Our final course transported us to China with a classic trio of dishes: Prawns Szechuan Style, Steamed Seabass with Soy & Ginger, and Special Fried Rice. The Szechuan prawns offered a subtle chilli kick, perfectly complemented by the delicately steamed seabass. The Special Fried Rice was the finest I’ve tasted—light, fluffy, and impeccably cooked. Our nod to China was a lovely way to end the meal.
Regrettably, we were too full to tackle dessert, for which I apologise on behalf of myself and my full stomach—it deserves a fair chance on our next visit.
One final note: the staff’s genuine enthusiasm shone through, just as it did on our visit to their Italian restaurant. Their warmth and professionalism elevated the dining experience; it makes Novikov a truly special destination.
If you’re tempted to find out more about the Italian restaurant, click here.
You’ll find Novikov at 50A Berkeley Street, London, W1J 8HA, right in Mayfair’s heart. Book ahead via www.novikovrestaurant.co.uk or call 020 7399 4330.
